The 13 Best U.S. Road Trips For Foodies (And What To Eat Along The Way)

Why settle for snacks at a gas station when the open road can lead you to smoked brisket, hand-rolled tamales, lobster rolls, and key lime pie that’s worth the drive alone? Across the U.S., some of the best meals are served miles from any big city—and getting there is half the fun.

These culinary road trips combine scenic routes with unforgettable bites, making them the ultimate treat for travelers with an appetite. So grab your keys, fire up your playlist, and let your cravings chart the course. The next great meal might be just around the bend.

1. Austin To San Antonio, Texas – BBQ, Tacos & Tex-Mex

Nothing says Texas like the sizzle of a barbecue pit, and this road trip offers plenty of it. Just a short drive separates these two cities, but the journey is packed with iconic flavors. Sink your teeth into brisket at Black’s BBQ in Lockhart, known as the BBQ Capital of Texas.

Relish the perfect blend of spices in a taco from Torchy’s Tacos, where creativity meets tradition. Don’t miss the bold Tex-Mex flavors at Rosario’s in San Antonio, where dishes like enchiladas and queso flameado steal the show.

2. New Orleans To Lafayette, Louisiana – Cajun, Creole & Beignets

The vibrant flavors of the South await on this tantalizing route. Your taste buds will dance with delight as you sample gumbo at Galatoire’s in New Orleans, a Creole classic that’s rich and satisfying.

Journey onward to Café du Monde for their world-famous beignets, a sweet treat that perfectly complements a chicory coffee. In Lafayette, indulge in a crawfish étouffée at Prejean’s, where the Cajun spices bring the dish to life..

3. Los Angeles To Santa Barbara, California – Tacos, Seafood & Wine Country Bites

California’s coast is a treasure trove for food lovers, offering everything from street tacos to upscale dining. Stop at Leo’s Taco Truck in LA for an authentic taste of Mexican street food.

As you cruise up the Pacific coastline, savor fresh oysters at The Jolly Oyster in Ventura, where the ocean’s bounty is served with a view. In Santa Barbara, pause for wine-paired tapas at The Lark, a sophisticated spot that highlights local ingredients.

4. Portland To Bend, Oregon – Craft Beer, Farm-To-Table & Food Trucks

Oregon’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its scenery, with craft beer and farm-to-table fare leading the way. Begin with a visit to the food carts at Portland’s Alder Street, where global flavors thrive.

Head to Deschutes Brewery in Bend for a taste of Oregon’s iconic craft beers, offering bold and innovative brews. For a farm-fresh experience, dine at Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails, where seasonal ingredients take center stage.

5. Chicago To Milwaukee, Illinois to Wisconsin – Deep Dish, Cheese Curds & Brats

Midwestern comfort food is the highlight of this delicious journey. Start with Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s, a cheesy, saucy masterpiece.

Cross the state line into Wisconsin, where cheese curds are a must-try at The Old Fashioned in Madison. Finish with a bratwurst from Usinger’s in Milwaukee, where the flavors are hearty and satisfying. This road trip celebrates the rich, comforting dishes that define the heartland of America.

6. New York City To The Hudson Valley – Pizza, Bakeries & Farm Fresh Finds

Leaving the hustle and bustle of the city, this route offers a peaceful escape to the countryside. Grab a slice from Joe’s Pizza in NYC, where the crust is thin, and the flavors are bold.

As you head north, stop at Bread Alone Bakery in Woodstock for organic, artisanal breads that are simply divine. In the Hudson Valley, explore local farms and markets, where fresh produce and homemade goods await.

7. Charleston To Savannah – Lowcountry Cuisine & Southern Comfort Food

Southern hospitality shines on this coastal route, where comfort food reigns supreme. Indulge in shrimp and grits at Hominy Grill in Charleston, where the flavors are as warm as the people.

On your way to Savannah, stop for a slice of cornbread at Glass Onion, a cozy spot that captures the essence of Southern cuisine. Finish your journey with sweet tea at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, a Savannah institution.

8. Miami To Key West, Florida – Cuban Sandwiches, Key Lime Pie & Fresh Seafood

Florida’s tropical flavors are a delight on this sun-soaked drive. Start with a Cuban sandwich from Versailles in Miami, where the bold flavors are wrapped in a crispy, pressed bread.

As you weave through the Keys, treat yourself to a slice of key lime pie at Blue Heaven in Key West, a sweet and tangy delight. Sample fresh seafood at Conch Republic Seafood Company, where the ocean’s bounty is served with island flair.

9. Albuquerque To Santa Fe, New Mexico – Hatch Chiles, Tamales & New Mexican Fare

The flavors of the Southwest are vibrant and bold on this scenic drive. Taste the unique heat of Hatch chiles at The Range Café in Albuquerque, a staple in New Mexican cooking.

Savor handmade tamales at El Parasol in Santa Fe, where tradition meets taste in every bite. Discover the rich and diverse dishes that define this region, where every meal tells a story of culture and history.

10. Nashville To Memphis, Tennessee – Hot Chicken, Ribs & Southern Sweets

Tennessee’s culinary scene is as lively as its music, offering a delectable mix of flavors. Dive into a plate of hot chicken at Prince’s in Nashville, where the heat is intense but rewarding.

As you head to Memphis, stop at Central BBQ for tender ribs that are smoked to perfection. Satisfy your sweet tooth with banana pudding from The Arcade Restaurant, a Southern classic.

11. San Francisco To Napa Valley – Sourdough, Oysters & Upscale Wine Pairings

From city streets to vineyard vistas, this journey is a taste of California’s finest. Begin with a loaf of sourdough from Tartine Bakery in San Francisco, where the bread is crusty and flavorful.

As you travel to Napa, enjoy fresh oysters from Hog Island Oyster Co., a true ocean delicacy. In wine country, treat yourself to exquisite wine pairings at Auberge du Soleil, where the cuisine matches the stunning views.

12. Boston To Portland, Maine – Lobster Rolls, Clam Chowder & Coastal Treats

New England’s coastal flavors are a seafood lover’s dream. Start your drive with a bowl of clam chowder at Union Oyster House in Boston, a creamy and comforting delight.

As you head north, savor a lobster roll at Red’s Eats in Wiscasset, where the lobster is fresh and succulent. Finish your journey with a blueberry pie from Two Fat Cats Bakery in Portland, a sweet taste of Maine’s bounty.

13. Seattle To Whidbey Island – Coffee, Salmon & Artisanal Pastries

The Pacific Northwest is renowned for its rich, aromatic coffee and fresh seafood. Begin your journey with a cup from Storyville Coffee in Seattle, where the brew is as smooth as the city itself.

Travel to Whidbey Island for wild-caught salmon at Captain Whidbey Inn, a true taste of the region’s bounty. Indulge in artisanal pastries from Knead & Feed, where every bite is a testament to the island’s culinary talent.