Food-focused trips are undoubtedly a thing, and James Bearder’s often flag the best spots worthy of a trip. Combining an outstanding dining experience with local exploration, you get more than just a great meal – you get a deeper sense of place, culture and community.
These five US destinations are pinned to whisker-recognized restaurants. It includes simple tips on when to go, where to stay, and how to balance a splurge-worthy dinner with a delicious local discovery.
1. New Orleans: Compare Rapin (Chefnina Compton)
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Chef Nina Compton’s Comp Lapin blends Gulf ingredients with French techniques and Caribbean heritage. The restaurant won the 2018 James Beard Award. Diners enjoy dishes such as curry goats and sweet potato gnocchi, which reflect both St. Lucian’s roots and Louisiana’s bounty.
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Located in New Orleans’ Warehouse Arts District, Compare Lapin is located in a reused Victorian warehouse that currently hosts galleries, boutiques and bars. A quick walk from hotels and guesthouses to restaurants, then continue on foot in search of art gallery crawls and craft cocktail tastings.
The French Quarter and Central Business District are also within walking distance or within a short ride share, allowing you to mix casual po-boys and cafe aurites, vignettes and fine dining at your local coffee shop.
Visit this restaurant in late winter to early spring or autumn and aim to enjoy mild weather and reduced crowds.
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2. Minneapolis: North Loop Spoon and Stablehouse
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Spoon and stability led by chef Gavin Kaysen – James Beard Best Chef: Winner of the Midwest’s best chefs – presents sophisticated French cuisine. The menu highlights local ingredients, including fish from nearby waters and local farm produce.
Spoons and stable houses occupy the stable houses of converted horses and lend out historic character. From there you can walk to the Mississippi River Front Trail, the Mill City Museum, or jump into the bike stock to ride along St. Anthony Falls.
Summer and early fall are perfect for outdoor activities such as farmers markets, riverfront parks and patio dining. During the winter, a spoon-friendly indoor meal and stable pairing will visit museum visits and theatre nights.
3. Tucson: El Guro Canelo, America’s first UNESCO food city
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El Guro Canelo won the James Beard America Classic Award in 2018 for his iconic Sonoran Hot Dog, a dog wrapped in bacon with boliro-style bread with pineto beans, onions, tomatoes and jalapeno sauce.
Tucson’s first UNESCO gastronomic city designation of 2015 highlights a deep culinary tradition that blends indigenous, Mexican and frontier influences.
The original stand is located near the central Tucson. Car rentals are convenient for exploring larger areas, but upon arrival you can take a short walk to the local market, murals and historic Barioviejo. Beyond that, you can explore sweets such as local tortillas, fresh tortillas, local salsas, churros and nearby stands attors.
Visit from late autumn to early spring to avoid the extreme summer heat. Spring also brings wildflower flowers and outdoor events. Plan an early morning or evening out for a comfortable street-level meal.
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4. Portland: LeHaton, East Burnside
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Le Pigeon has Chef Gabriel Rucker, James’ best beard chef. 2013 Northwest winner and 2011 Rising Star Chef. Its intimate environment and original cuisine complement Portland’s reputation for culinary creativity.
Located just east of downtown Burnside/Division, LeHaton is in a mix of diving bars, cafes, boutiques and craft breweries. Walk to other Eastside eateries, Powell’s Town Book (a walk below a short walk), and East Bank’s Esplanade for walks on the Riverside.
In summer and fall, pair meals and outdoor markets, food cart pods and day trips to Columbia River Gorge.
Winter trips can rain, but if you don’t mind a cozy indoor plan for a museum visit, a tour of the brewery or booking in LeHaton, accommodation fees may be low. Please make a reservation in advance as the capacity is small.
5. Charleston: Bertha Kitchen in Union Heights
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Bertha’s Kitchen won the James Beard America Classic Award in 2017 for its authentic gala dishes, such as fried chicken, okra stew and rice dishes rooted in African American Lowcountry traditions. It offers connections to the history of living culinary culinary in a region that is different from downtown’s southern cuisine.
The restaurant is located north of downtown Union Heights and is best for reaching cars and ride-sharing. Once you’re there, you’ll enjoy a warm, family-run atmosphere. Combine with your stay in downtown’s historic districts and walk through iconic streets, waterfront batteries and enjoy a complimentary walking tour.
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) bring about pleasant weather, with fewer crowds and events like Spoleto Festival USA. Summers are hot and humid, so plan an early morning historic tour and an indoor dining room at noon.
These five are just starting points. City evolution: New chefs rise and change the local scene. Use these anchor restaurants as inspiration for future travel and keep an eye on James Beard’s announcement.
Embracing culinary tourism and with each award-winning meal, we will be grateful for the culture, history and community wherever we travel.
