As a traveler, one of the most exciting things to discover in new destinations is the local cuisine. From street food stalls to fancy restaurants, each city has its own unique flavors and dishes that are waiting to be discovered. While some cities like Paris or Tokyo are well-known for their culinary scenes, there are other places that are often overlooked but offer equally delicious food experiences. Here are a few undiscovered food scenes worth exploring.
1) Louisville, Kentucky
When people think of Southern cuisine, they often think of New Orleans or Charleston. However, Louisville should also be on your list if you’re a fan of comfort foods like fried chicken and biscuits with gravy. The city’s famous Hot Brown sandwich – an open-faced turkey sandwich topped with bacon and Mornay sauce – is a must-try dish. For dessert, head to Bourbon Barrel Foods for bourbon barrel-aged sauces and toppings like caramel sauce and smoked sea salt.
2) Portland, Maine
While seafood is abundant in many coastal cities, Portland offers more than just lobster rolls (although those are pretty amazing too). Head to Eventide Oyster Co., where you can try creative seafood dishes like brown butter lobster roll or oysters Rockefeller with bacon breadcrumbs. Or stop by The Holy Donut for made-from-scratch potato donuts in flavors like maple bacon or dark chocolate sea salt.
3) San Juan, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rican cuisine has been gaining popularity in recent years thanks to chefs like Jose Andres putting it on the map. But if you want an authentic taste of traditional Puerto Rican dishes without breaking the bank, head to La Bombonera in Old San Juan for breakfast pastries and classic sandwiches like mallorcas filled with ham and cheese.
4) Asheville, North Carolina
Known as “Beer City USA,” Asheville boasts over 100 breweries but also has a thriving food scene that shouldn’t be missed. Check out French Broad Chocolate Lounge for artisanal chocolates and decadent desserts like chocolate cake with salted caramel frosting. For dinner, head to Cúrate for tapas-style dishes like grilled octopus or Spanish tortilla.
5) Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe’s cuisine is a fusion of Mexican and Native American flavors with a hint of Southwestern influence. Head to The Shed for traditional New Mexican dishes like enchiladas with red or green chile sauce (or both!). Or stop by Kakawa Chocolate House for hot cocoa made from historic recipes and flavored with spices like cinnamon and chili.
These are just a few examples of undiscovered food scenes in the United States worth exploring. So next time you’re planning your travels, be sure to add these destinations to your list – your taste buds will thank you!