From Pizza and Tacos to Gumbo and Dim Sum
Hungry for a travel adventure that will satisfy ALL your senses? Try a getaway to popular destinations that are also famous for your favorite foods. Major cities like New York and LA are always a safe bet for almost any type of cuisine, but the team at WallyPark has done some homework to find other towns that are known for particular dishes.
Deep Dish Pizza – Chicago, IL
Legend has it, deep dish pizza was born here in the 1940s—at Pizzeria Uno—so it’s no surprise that Chicago not only has the widest variety but most authentic versions of this beloved comfort food. Even if you only have a long weekend, you’ll have time to try Uno for their original, Lou Malnati’s iconic buttery crust, Giordano’s famous “stuffed” deep dish and Pequod’s unique caramelized crust.
BBQ – Austin, TX
This is the brisket capital of America and ground zero for Texas-style BBQ. Central Texas BBQ is all about smoked brisket, simple rubs and low-and-slow oak smoking. So, it’s easy to understand why Austin has become a pilgrimage destination for barbecue fans. La Barbecue, Micklethwait and Terry Black’s are all heavy hitters, Interstellar BBQ is a newer spot getting national attention and the legendary Franklin Barbecue is always worth the wait.
Seafood – Boston, MA
Renowned for its fresh lobster, clam chowder and fried clams, Boston’s seafood tradition is both rich and expansive. As one of America’s oldest cities, it also offers a unique combination of historic charm and authentic, regional recipes handed down for generations. Legal Sea Foods is a New England legend, Neptune Oyster is famous for lobster rolls and oysters, and the Union Oyster House is literally America’s oldest restaurant.
Mexican – Houston, TX
Houston’s large immigrant population make for a booming Mexican food scene that’s deep-rooted, truly authentic and highly regional. The variety of cooking styles include Poblano, Oaxacan, Veracruzano, Jalisco and Northern Mexican. If authentic tacos, tamales and pan dulce sound good, try La Guadalupana, Doña María or Taqueria Tacambaro. Hugo’s is the place for upscale, regional cuisine. And don’t miss Tacos Tierra Caliente for the best street tacos in town.
Chinese – San Francisco
As the home to the oldest Chinatown in North America and gateway for Chinese immigrants since the 1800s, San Francisco is the OG of American Chinese food. You’ll find a full range of traditional styles like Cantonese and dim sum along with regional favorites like Hunan and Sichuan. Must-try spots include the Z&Y Restaurant for spicy Sichuan fare, Dragon Beaux for modern dim sum and hot pots, and the iconic R&G Lounge for their salt-and-pepper crab.
Creole – New Orleans
The Crescent City is the undisputed birthplace of Creole cuisine. It’s the heart of Louisiana’s culinary identity—rich, complex and tied to French colonial heritage with African, Caribbean and Spanish influences. Signature dishes include shrimp Creole, gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and jambalaya. So be sure you allow enough time to visit all the favorites, including Commander’s Palace, Dooky Chase’s, Antoine’s, Galatoire’s, Brennan’s and Cochon.
French – Washington, DC
Washington may seem like the most “American” of cities, but it also offers visitors French cuisine with a blend of classic and contemporary flavors. Le Diplomate is a charming Parisian-style brasserie, perfect for croissants, escargots, and coq au vin. For refined dining, Métier’s elegant seasonal dishes are a must. And pastry lovers rave about Le Pain Quotidien and Chouquette Bakery, where buttery croissants and delicate macarons steal the show.
Sounds pretty appetizing, doesn’t it? And those are just a few places you might want to try for your excellent epicurean adventure. Do a little homework of your own and you’re sure to find more.
Just remember truly great trips begin and end with WallyPark’s hassle-free airport parking. But we book up fast during busy travel seasons, so we suggest you book now.
