From coast to coast, the United States boasts an array of iconic restaurants that have left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape. These eateries, each unique in their offerings and ambiance, have garnered fame through various avenues, including celebrity sightings, media appearances, and culinary accolades. Let’s take a journey across the country to discover some of the most famous restaurants in each state.

Alabama: Dreamland Bar-B-Que in Tuscaloosa

Dreamland Bar-B-Que has been a Tuscaloosa staple since 1958, renowned for its mouthwatering ribs. Notable visitors include comedians Sean and Penn Teller, singer Reba McEntire, and former President George W. Bush, who famously enjoyed the restaurant’s ribs aboard Air Force One.

Alaska: Snow City Cafe in Anchorage

Snow City Cafe in Anchorage is celebrated for its delectable brunch offerings, particularly its egg sandwiches and pancakes. Its claim to fame was solidified when President Barack Obama visited in 2015 and purchased all the cinnamon rolls for his staff and reporters.

Arizona: Durant’s Steakhouse in Phoenix

Durant’s Steakhouse in Phoenix is synonymous with fine dining, known for its succulent steaks, classic red booths, and signature martinis. Over the years, it has attracted the likes of celebrities such as John Wayne, Joe DiMaggio, and Clark Gable.

Arkansas: Petit and Keet in Little Rock

Petit and Keet in Little Rock has earned accolades as an award-winning restaurant and bar, consistently ranking as the top eatery in Arkansas. It gained further attention when its owners pledged to donate 20% of proceeds to the rebuilding of Red Bar, a beloved Florida establishment destroyed by fire.

California: Craig’s in Los Angeles

Craig’s, nestled in Los Angeles, is renowned for its diverse menu featuring Italian and American classics like pizza, pasta, and honey truffle chicken. It’s a hotspot for celebrities, with regular sightings of stars like Kim Kardashian, Lala Kent, and Lizzo.

Colorado: Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs in Denver

Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs started as a humble hot dog truck and has since become a Denver institution. Offering unique options like elk, ostrich, and wild boar hot dogs, it gained fame after being featured on Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations” and other TV shows.

Connecticut: Mystic Pizza in Mystic

Mystic Pizza gained nationwide fame after inspiring the 1988 movie of the same name, starring Julia Roberts. Since its opening in 1973, it has been a popular destination for tourists eager to taste “A Slice of Heaven.”

Delaware: Stoney’s Pub in Wilmington

Stoney’s Pub in Wilmington gained recognition after being featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” Its hearty British pub fare, including shrimp and chips and roast beef dinner, earned praise from host Guy Fieri.

Florida: Seaspice Brasserie & Lounge in Miami

Seaspice Brasserie & Lounge offers a unique dining experience on the Miami River, serving gourmet dishes like steak tartare and crab tempura. It’s a favorite among celebrities like Marc Anthony, adding to its allure.

Georgia: STK in Atlanta

STK in Atlanta is renowned for its premium steaks and seafood, drawing in celebrities like Selena Gomez and Denzel Washington. Its upscale ambiance and delectable menu have made it a hotspot for Atlanta’s elite.

Hawaii: Manago Hotel Restaurant in Captain Cook

The Manago Hotel Restaurant, dating back to 1917, is Hawaii’s oldest restaurant, famed for its family-style pork chops. Its historic charm and authentic cuisine continue to attract tourists from across the country.

Idaho: White Horse Saloon in Spirit Lake

White Horse Saloon, established in 1908, holds the distinction of being Idaho’s oldest operating saloon. With a rich history and rustic ambiance, it remains a beloved establishment in Spirit Lake.

Illinois: Manny’s Cafeteria and Delicatessen in Chicago

Manny’s Cafeteria and Delicatessen, a Chicago institution for over 80 years, is renowned for its Jewish deli fare and classic dishes like Reuben sandwiches. Its enduring popularity has earned it the title of the city’s most prominent deli.

Indiana: St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis

St. Elmo Steak House gained widespread recognition after being featured on NBC’s “Parks and Recreation.” Its legendary shrimp cocktails and prime steaks have made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Iowa: Northwestern Steakhouse in Mason City

Northwestern Steakhouse, operating since 1920, is famed for its mouthwatering steaks seasoned with olive oil, butter, and Greek spices. Its century-old tradition and consistent quality have earned it the title of Iowa’s most iconic restaurant.

Kansas: Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que in Kansas City

Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, housed in a former gas station, has garnered national acclaim for its burnt-ends sandwich and ribs. Founded in 1990, it has become a barbecue destination, attracting enthusiasts from far and wide.

Kentucky: Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum in North Corbin

The Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum, operated by the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken, is a must-visit for KFC enthusiasts. Colonel Sanders’ original recipes and memorabilia offer a glimpse into the history of this iconic fast-food chain.

Louisiana: Commander’s Palace in New Orleans

Commander’s Palace, an iconic Garden District establishment since 1893, is renowned for its Creole-inspired cuisine. With celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse once at its helm, it continues to set the standard for fine dining in New Orleans.

Maine: The Lobster Shack at Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth

The Lobster Shack at Two Lights has been serving up fresh lobster rolls and seafood since the 1920s. Its picturesque location atop Cape Elizabeth’s shores has made it a quintessential Maine dining destination.

Maryland: Woodberry Kitchen in Baltimore

Woodberry Kitchen is celebrated for its farm-to-table philosophy and modern American cuisine. A favorite of Michelle and Malia Obama, it continues to attract discerning diners with its innovative dishes and rustic charm.

Massachusetts: Cheers in Boston

Cheers, originally the Bull and Finch Pub, gained fame as the setting for the hit sitcom of the same name. A Boston landmark since 1969, it remains a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Michigan: Hack-Ma-Tack Inn and Restaurant in Cheboygan

The Hack-Ma-Tack Inn, founded in 1894, exudes old-world charm and elegance. Named Michigan’s most iconic restaurant, it continues to delight patrons with its classic dishes and timeless ambiance.

Minnesota: Matt’s Bar in Minneapolis

Matt’s Bar, the birthplace of the Jucy Lucy burger, has become a Minneapolis institution since its founding in 1954. Its iconic cheese-filled burger has garnered national attention, making it a must-visit for burger aficionados.

Mississippi: Mayflower Café in Jackson

The Mayflower Café, a Jackson landmark since 1935, is renowned for its Greek and seafood specialties. Featured on the Food Network and in acclaimed films, it remains a cherished dining destination in Mississippi.

Missouri: Gates Bar-B-Q in Kansas City

Gates Bar-B-Q, established in 1946, is a Kansas City institution known for its savory barbecue sauces and hickory-smoked meats. Its welcoming slogan, “Hi, may I help you?” has become synonymous with hospitality in the region.

Montana: The Pickle Barrel in Bozeman

The Pickle Barrel, a Bozeman staple since 1979, is famed for its hearty sandwiches and laid-back atmosphere. Its diverse menu and friendly service have made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Nebraska: The Drover in Omaha

The Drover, renowned for its whiskey-marinated steaks and cozy ambiance, has been an Omaha institution since 1969. Its rustic charm and legendary fare continue to attract diners seeking a taste of the Midwest.

Nevada: The Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge in Las Vegas

The Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge, a Las Vegas landmark since 1972, is celebrated for its retro vibe and generous portions. Featured in numerous films and TV shows, it remains a nostalgic favorite on the Vegas Strip.

New Hampshire: Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant in Meredith

Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant, serving up classic New England fare since 1954, is renowned for its Thanksgiving-style turkey dinners and homemade pies. Its warm hospitality and comfort food offerings have made it a beloved destination in New Hampshire.

New Jersey: The Frog and the Peach in New Brunswick

The Frog and the Peach, a New Brunswick institution since 1983, is famed for its innovative cuisine and extensive wine list. Its upscale ambiance and commitment to culinary excellence have earned it a loyal following.

New Mexico: The Shed in Santa Fe

The Shed, housed in a historic adobe building in Santa Fe’s Plaza, is renowned for its New Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Its signature red and green chile dishes have made it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

New York: Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City

Katz’s Delicatessen, a New York City institution since 1888, is famed for its pastrami sandwiches and bustling atmosphere. Featured in numerous films, it remains a culinary landmark in the heart of Manhattan’s Lower East Side.

North Carolina: The Angus Barn in Raleigh

The Angus Barn, a Raleigh landmark since 1960, is renowned for its prime steaks and Southern hospitality. Its rustic decor and expansive wine cellar have made it a favorite destination for special occasions.

North Dakota: The Toasted Frog in Grand Forks

The Toasted Frog, known for its eclectic menu and craft cocktails, has been a Grand Forks favorite since 2006. Its inventive dishes and lively ambiance make it a standout in North Dakota’s dining scene.

Ohio: The Golden Lamb in Lebanon

The Golden Lamb, Ohio’s oldest continually operating hotel and restaurant, has been serving guests since 1803. Famed for its historic charm and hearty American fare, it has hosted numerous notable figures, including several U.S. presidents.

Oklahoma: Cattlemen’s Steakhouse in Oklahoma City

Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, a Oklahoma City institution since 1910, is famed for its aged steaks and Western ambiance. Its storied history and cowboy charm continue to attract diners seeking an authentic Oklahoma experience.

Oregon: Huber’s Cafe in Portland

Huber’s Cafe, Portland’s oldest restaurant, is renowned for its Spanish coffee and traditional turkey dinners. Its cozy atmosphere and classic dishes have made it a cherished dining destination since 1879.

Pennsylvania: Primanti Bros. in Pittsburgh

Primanti Bros., a Pittsburgh institution since 1933, is famed for its iconic sandwiches piled high with fries and coleslaw. Its no-frills approach and hearty fare have made it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

Rhode Island: Al Forno in Providence

Al Forno, a Providence landmark since 1980, is renowned for popularizing grilled pizza in the United States. Its inventive Italian cuisine and welcoming atmosphere have earned it critical acclaim and a loyal following.

South Carolina: Husk in Charleston

Husk, helmed by acclaimed chef Sean Brock, celebrates Southern cuisine with locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes. Its commitment to culinary excellence has earned it national recognition and a coveted spot on the Charleston dining scene.

South Dakota: Alpine Inn in Hill City

The Alpine Inn, housed in a historic building dating back to 1886, is renowned for its German-inspired cuisine and charming ambiance. Its hearty fare and welcoming atmosphere have made it a beloved fixture in Hill City.

Tennessee: The Loveless Cafe in Nashville

The Loveless Cafe, a Nashville institution since 1951, is famed for its Southern comfort food and homemade biscuits. Its iconic neon sign and rustic charm have made it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

Texas: Franklin Barbecue in Austin

Franklin Barbecue, often hailed as the best barbecue joint in Texas, has gained worldwide acclaim for its mouthwatering brisket and ribs. With long lines forming daily, it’s a pilgrimage site for barbecue enthusiasts from across the globe.

Utah: The Copper Onion in Salt Lake City

The Copper Onion, known for its creative American fare and craft cocktails, has become a culinary gem in Salt Lake City. Its seasonal menu and contemporary ambiance have earned it rave reviews and a loyal following.

Vermont: The Skinny Pancake in Burlington

The Skinny Pancake, founded in 2003 as a food cart, has evolved into a beloved Vermont institution. Famed for its crepes and commitment to local ingredients, it embodies the spirit of community and sustainability.

Virginia: The Inn at Little Washington in Washington

The Inn at Little Washington, a world-renowned Relais & Châteaux property, offers an unparalleled dining experience in the Virginia countryside. Helmed by chef Patrick O’Connell, it has earned three Michelin stars and acclaim as one of America’s finest restaurants.

Washington: Canlis in Seattle

Canlis, a Seattle icon since 1950, is celebrated for its Pacific Northwest cuisine and stunning views of Lake Union. With its elegant dining room and impeccable service, it continues to set the standard for fine dining in Seattle.

West Virginia: The Dish Cafe in Daniels

The Dish Cafe, a hidden gem in Daniels, is known for its eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere. Its creative dishes and commitment to local ingredients have made it a favorite among West Virginia foodies.

Wisconsin: The Old Fashioned in Madison

The Old Fashioned, a Madison institution since 2005, celebrates Wisconsin’s culinary heritage with classic supper club fare and an extensive selection of local beers and spirits. Its cozy ambiance and hearty dishes pay homage to the state’s traditions.

Wyoming: The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar in Jackson

The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, housed in a historic building dating back to 1893, is renowned for its Western decor and lively atmosphere. Its iconic saddle barstools and live music make it a quintessential Wyoming experience.

From historic steakhouses to trendy bistros, these iconic restaurants showcase the diverse culinary landscape of the United States, each leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and taste buds of diners across the country. Whether you’re craving barbecue in Kansas City or seafood in Miami, there’s a legendary eatery waiting to welcome you with open arms and a delicious meal.