If you’re a foodie looking for the best culinary experiences in the US, your search is over! Thanks to a recently released data report from Mike Wilson, spokesperson for Connecticut Entertainer, we have the answer to the ultimate foodie capitals of the United States.
The data team at Connecticut Entertainer analyzed restaurant and menu data from 100 cities across the United States to reveal the most popular cuisines in each state and the best cities for foodies in the US. They gathered the scores by looking at the number of restaurants, the number of restaurants with a 5-star rating, and the search interest for different cuisines in each state. From this, they then created their own index score which ranked the cities on which cuisines were the most popular, revealing the best cities for food lovers.
Top 5 States For Foodies
So, just which are the top five states for foodies? Read on to discover the answer – it may surprise you!
1. Wilmington, Delaware
According to the data, Wilmington, Delaware is officially the foodie capital of America. This small city has a huge selection of restaurants from all around the world and is home to some of the best seafood in the US – the perfect spot for anyone looking to try something new.
2. Warwick, Rhode Island
Rhode Island comes in at second place thanks to its eclectic mix of cuisine. From classic Italian dishes to Mexican street tacos, there’s something for everyone packed in a fairly small place.
3. Annapolis, Maryland
The capital of Maryland tops the list as the third-best state for foodies. Seafood is a specialty here, with fresh catch coming in daily from nearby Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, and this is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to indulge in some of the country’s best seafood dishes.
4. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Harrisburg is the fourth-best state for foodies, with its mix of classic American pubs and international restaurants. From sushi to authentic Mexican dishes, Harrisburg has something for everyone.
5. Montpelier, Vermont
Vermont’s capital city rounds out the list of the best foodie states in the US. Montpelier is home to some of the best farm-to-table restaurants in the country, as well as a wide range of ethnic cuisines from all around the world. It’s a great spot for anyone looking to try something new and exciting.
Worst Five States For Foodies
We also looked at the data to find out which states are the least hospitable for foodies. Read on to discover why these five states didn’t make it onto Connecticut Entertainer’s list of the best foodie cities in America – and make sure you know the spots to avoid.
1. Trenton, New Jersey
The number one spot on the list of worst states for foodies is Trenton, New Jersey. This city has a fairly limited selection of restaurants and most of them are chain eateries, meaning that there is little to entice a real foodie fan.
2. West Valley City, Utah
West Valley City, Utah comes in at number two on the list. While it does have a few Mexican restaurants and a handful of fast-food chains, the city lacks any real variety or unique culinary experiences for visitors.
3. Detroit, Michigan
Detroit, Michigan is another spot best avoided by serious foodie fans; this city is known for its classic American fare, but there are few upscale or unique restaurants to offer foodies something special.
4. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona is fourth on the list of least hospitable foodie states. This desert city has a decent selection of chain restaurants, but there are few eateries that offer anything truly unique or special in terms of cuisine.
5. Sioux Falls, South Dakota
While Sioux Falls may have a few decent restaurants, its selection is far from impressive, making it the fifth-worst city for foodies in the US. This is a great spot for classic American fare, but don’t expect to find anything too exotic here.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it: the best states for foodies and the worst. If you’re looking to indulge your passion for all things culinary, then make sure you head to any of the five best cities listed above; this is where you’ll find the most delicious and eclectic selection of cuisine.
Whether you are in the mood for classic American fare or something more exotic, these cities will offer you the best of what US food culture has to offer – all you have to do is choose your favorite!