Embark on a flavorful journey through America’s culinary landscape, where history, culture, and taste converge in three iconic regions. From the smoky traditions of Texas barbecue, shaped by diverse cultural influences and perfected over generations, to the abundant freshness and simplicity of the Pacific Northwest, celebrating the bounty of forests and sea, each region offers a distinct narrative on the plate. Finally, savor the timeless coastal charm of New England, where seafood reigns supreme and culinary traditions date back to early settlers. Prepare to experience the heart, soul, and unmistakable flavors that define America’s diverse culinary identity.
Texas Barbecue: A Smoky Journey
The story of Texas barbecue is a rich tapestry woven from various cultural threads. While the term “barbecue” itself has roots in the Caribbean, with the Taino word “barbacoa” referring to a wooden framework for roasting meat, the traditions we know today in Texas evolved through a fascinating confluence of events. Long before Europeans set foot on the land, Native Americans were already slow-cooking meat over fire. However, the mid-19th century saw a significant shift with the arrival of German and Czech immigrants in Central Texas. These settlers brought with them their European meat-smoking techniques, initially as a method to preserve unsold meat in their butcher shops before the advent of refrigeration.
As these smoked meats gained popularity among the growing migrant population, including African American and Mexican American cotton pickers, many of these butcher shops began to specialize in smoked meats. Around the early 1900s, it became common for these workers, often not allowed in restaurants at the time, to purchase smoked sausage and ribs from German butcher shops and eat them on the spot, calling it “barbecue”. This tradition of serving meat by the pound with simple sides like bread, crackers, and perhaps a pickle or onion continues to this day in some of the oldest establishments.
Present-Day Pit Stops
Today, Texas remains a barbecue mecca, with countless establishments carrying on these traditions and innovating with new flavors and techniques.
Austin, the state capital, is a vibrant hub for barbecue enthusiasts. Franklin Barbecue stands as a legend, famous for its incredibly tender brisket that often draws long lines. For a taste of something different, Distant Relatives offers a unique take on barbecue, drawing inspiration from African culinary heritage with distinct sauces and sides. For a more traditional experience, Sam’s Bar-B-Que has been serving fall-off-the-bone ribs and brisket with their renowned secret tomato-based sauce since 1957. Other notable Austin spots include La Barbecue, known for its quality brisket and pork ribs; InterStellar BBQ, praised for its high-quality ingredients and unique offerings like peach tea-glazed pork belly; Terry Black’s Barbecue, a family-run operation with a wide selection of meats; KG BBQ, which infuses Texas barbecue with Egyptian and Middle Eastern flavors; and Salt Lick BBQ, offering a rustic, family-style experience with delicious brisket, ribs, and sausage.
Venturing into the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg offers its own distinct barbecue charm. For a unique fusion, Leroy’s Tex Mex BBQ combines the best of both worlds with mesquite-smoked meats and handmade tortillas. Backwoods BBQ is a local favorite specializing in mesquite-cooked pit barbecue and steaks, complete with homemade desserts and live music on Fridays. Finally, David’s Old Fashioned Pit BBQ provides a taste of tradition with fall-off-the-bone flavor and even offers breakfast tacos and German sausages, a nod to the area’s heritage.
Where to Stay and Savor
To fully immerse yourself in the Austin barbecue scene, consider a stay at the South Congress Hotel. This boutique hotel is not just a place to rest your head; it’s a culinary destination in itself. Maie Day, their community chophouse, is MICHELIN Recommended and offers a delightful steakhouse experience with brunch on weekends. Café No Sé provides a bright and airy all-day dining option with seasonal brunch, happy hour, and dinner, and is particularly known for its incredible desserts and pastries. For your morning caffeine fix and a quick bite, Mañana offers specialty coffee drinks, house-made pastries, and even breakfast tacos. For a truly special occasion, Otoko is a 12-seat Japanese omakase restaurant offering an intimate and unique dining experience. Finally, the Lobby Bar serves as a gathering place with a full bar, handcrafted cocktails, coffee, and a menu of shareable snacks from Café No Sé.
In Fredericksburg, the Albert Hotel offers a personal and welcoming experience with a focus on the region’s bounty. Their flagship restaurant, The Restaurant at Albert, provides a gourmet dining experience with seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients, all under the guidance of a MICHELIN star recipient. For a more casual setting, The Pharmacy is a market, coffee shop, and deli offering daily breakfast and lunch menus, along with pastries and local goods. Step back in time at The Saloon, a historic watering hole dating back to 1888, offering strong whiskey, cold beer, and a friendly atmosphere, complete with happy hour and themed nights.
Pacific Northwest: From Forest to Sea
Journeying northwest, the culinary landscape shifts to one defined by the abundance of the Pacific Ocean, fertile farmlands, and lush forests. The cuisine here is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients, prepared with a simplicity that allows their natural flavors to shine.
The culinary traditions of the Pacific Northwest are deeply rooted in the practices of its indigenous peoples, who for centuries have relied on the rich resources of the region. Shellfish and salmon were staples, harvested from the abundant waters. This connection to the land and sea continues to define the region’s cuisine today, with a strong emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Salmon, shellfish, and other fresh seafood are prominent, alongside game meats like moose and elk, wild mushrooms, berries, potatoes, and wild plants such as fiddlehead ferns.
Preparation methods often highlight the natural flavors, with grilling seafood on cedar planks and smoking fish being common techniques. Since the 1980s, the culinary scene has also embraced locally produced craft beer and wine, further cementing the region’s identity as a haven for food and beverage enthusiasts.
Flavors of Today
The Pacific Northwest boasts a vibrant and innovative culinary scene, with restaurants that showcase the region’s exceptional ingredients in both traditional and contemporary ways.
In Seattle, Washington, Six Seven Restaurant offers stunning waterfront views alongside its Pacific Northwest cuisine, emphasizing seasonal and organic ingredients. Charlotte Restaurant & Lounge in downtown Seattle provides a refined seafood experience with breathtaking views of Elliott Bay, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. For a taste of New American cuisine with a Pacific Northwest spirit, Alder & Ash is a stylish and bustling bar and grill located in the heart of downtown.
Heading to Stevenson, Washington, Big River Grill provides a more casual experience with modern roadhouse cuisine, featuring Italian-inspired dishes and healthy options. For those looking to sample local beverages, Red Bluff Tap House offers gastro pub fare alongside a wide selection of locally sourced beer, cider, wine, and spirits. Clark & Lewie’s Travelers Rest Saloon & Grill combines historic charm with a flavorful American menu, offering hearty classics such as smoked brisket sandwiches and Columbia Gorge-inspired salads. Walking Man Brewing is perfect for casual dining and features handcrafted pizzas, gourmet burgers, and an impressive lineup of locally brewed beers, enjoyed in a relaxed brewery atmosphere.
In Portland, Oregon, the culinary scene is known for its innovation and diversity. Kann offers a unique experience, blending Haitian cuisine with the bounty of the Pacific Northwest, all prepared with live-fire cooking techniques. For a more classic yet sophisticated experience, Portland City Grill, located high above the city, boasts panoramic views and a menu featuring New American cuisine with Northwestern influences, including prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive sushi selection. Urban Steel Kitchen + Bar is a neighborhood favorite offering Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, emphasizing local flavors and seasonal ingredients.
Finally, in Gleneden Beach, Oregon, along the stunning coastline, The Attic Lounge at Salishan Coastal Lodge provides breathtaking sunset views from its deck, along with handcrafted cocktails, Northwest micro-brews, local Oregon wines, and a menu of small plates, sandwiches, and entrees. Side Door Cafe specializes in Northwest cuisine for both lunch and dinner. Beachcrest Brewing Company invites guests to relax with ocean views, handcrafted ales, and tasty artisan pizzas made with local ingredients. For casual seaside dining, Tidal Raves Seafood Grill highlights local seafood favorites—including Dungeness crab cakes and grilled salmon—served with spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific.
Rest and Refuel
The Pacific Northwest offers a range of exceptional hotels with in-house dining options that perfectly complement the region’s culinary spirit.
In Seattle, The Edgewater provides a truly unique experience with its over-water location. Its award-winning Six Seven Restaurant features Pacific Northwest cuisine crafted with fresh, organic ingredients. This upscale hotel seamlessly blends rustic elegance with modern comfort, featuring luxurious guest rooms and suites outfitted with cozy fireplaces, plush bedding, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame spectacular waterfront vistas. Guests can unwind in the stylish lobby lounge adorned with Pacific Northwest-inspired decor, relax on the outdoor terraces, or enjoy the convenience of a 24-hour fitness center equipped with the latest exercise equipment.
Skamania Lodge in Stevenson offers several dining experiences that highlight the region’s bounty. The main dining room features Skamania Classics for breakfast, such as a Dungeness Crab Omelet and Smoked Steelhead Hash. Entrees include regional ingredients like Wild Boar Shank and Roasted Steelhead, alongside signature brick oven pizzas. For a more formal setting with panoramic views, the Cascade Dining Room offers dishes like Potlatch salmon cooked on an alder plank and locally-sourced pork chops and halibut. Reservations are recommended, especially for their popular Sunday brunch.
Guests at Skamania Lodge also enjoy extensive amenities, including an 18-hole championship golf course, luxurious spa services, hiking trails, and zipline adventures. The lodge additionally provides an indoor pool, fitness center, and outdoor hot tubs with scenic views of the Columbia River Gorge.
In Portland, The Hotel Zags provides a vibrant and social atmosphere. Its on-site Zags Restaurant and Patio serves fresh salads, specialty pizzas, and decadent desserts. Guests can also enjoy signature cocktails, a curated wine list, and local beers in a lively setting. The hotel enhances the guest experience with amenities such as a Gear Shed stocked with bikes, skateboards, cameras, and outdoor gear available for borrowing. Additionally, guests have access to an inviting courtyard with fire pits, games, and comfortable seating perfect for socializing or relaxing outdoors.
The Salishan Coastal Hotel Lodge by SCP Hotels in Gleneden Beach offers a variety of dining options. The Attic Lounge is perfect for enjoying dinner, cocktails, and a robust wine selection while taking in the stunning sunset views. Provisions Market provides a more casual option with breakfast and an all-day menu featuring healthy and fresh ingredients, along with smoothies and coffee. Within the Salishan Marketplace, guests can find Hook & Slice Restaurant and Bar, serving up classic comfort food like fish and chips, burgers, and pizza. The Salishan also offers guests a luxurious spa experience, an 18-hole golf course surrounded by coastal forests, and miles of scenic walking trails. Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and convenient access to nearby beaches.
New England: A Coastal Culinary Heritage
Our final culinary destination brings us to the historic shores of New England, a region whose cuisine is deeply intertwined with the sea and the traditions of its early settlers. Here, seafood reigns supreme, particularly the iconic lobster, but the culinary landscape also features hearty comfort foods and unique regional specialties.
The food traditions of New England began to take shape in 1620 with the arrival of the Pilgrims, who were taught by Native Americans how to cultivate maize, a versatile ingredient that became a staple. Immigrants also adopted other indigenous ingredients like blueberries, oysters, and succotash.
New England’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean naturally led to a strong reliance on seafood. Lobster, in particular, has become a defining ingredient, prepared in countless ways from simple boiled lobster to the beloved lobster roll. Over time, the region’s cuisine has been further enriched by the influx of immigrants from Ireland, Portugal, Italy, and Greece, each bringing their own culinary traditions. The focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and time-honored cooking methods has resulted in a culinary heritage that is both comforting and distinctive, with iconic dishes like clam chowder, Boston baked beans, and maple syrup now enjoyed across the United States.
Today’s Foodscape
Boston, Massachusetts, offers a plethora of options. Legal Sea Foods is a New England institution, serving fresh seafood since 1950 and renowned for its award-winning clam chowder and various lobster preparations. B&G Oysters in the South End provides a more upscale experience with a wide selection of oysters and elegant seafood dishes. For a classic lobster roll, James Hook + Co. on the waterfront has been a go-to spot since 1925. In the North End, Neptune Oyster is a small but highly acclaimed raw bar known for its fresh oysters and exceptional lobster rolls. Row 34 in the Fort Point area offers a more industrial-chic setting with a focus on oysters and other fresh seafood. For a taste of a traditional New England clam shack experience with a modern twist, Summer Shack is a popular choice. Finally, Ostra in Back Bay provides a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on specialty seafood and Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
The Revere Hotel Boston Common is a modern hotel in the heart of the Theater District. Its Rebel’s Guild offers locally-inspired pub fare with a focus on comfort cuisine and handcrafted cocktails, along with a popular Sunday brunch. For stunning panoramic views of the city, head to Rooftop@Revere, Boston’s largest rooftop lounge, where you can enjoy cocktails, appetizers, and entrees. Adjacent to the Revere Hotel, The Bosworth at Hotel AKA Boston Common blends New England classics with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine for breakfast, brunch, and dinner.
Venturing south to Newport, Rhode Island, the seafood scene continues to impress. The Mooring Restaurant on the waterfront offers stunning harbor views alongside its fresh seafood and extensive raw bar. White Horse Tavern, recognized as America’s oldest tavern, serves fresh fish, clams, and lobsters sourced directly from Narragansett Bay. Midtown Oyster Bar provides a vibrant atmosphere with fresh seafood and contemporary American cuisine. Scales & Shells focuses on simple yet bold dishes using locally sourced seafood prepared with French and Spanish techniques. And for a dedicated lobster experience with beautiful harbor views, The Lobster Bar Newport is a must-visit.
The Newport Harbor Island Resort, located on Goat Island, offers breathtaking waterfront views. Torpedo Bar & Lounge showcases classic American dishes and innovative cocktails with a Newport flair, complete with an outdoor deck overlooking Narragansett Bay. For a quick start to your day, The Bakery in the lobby serves handcrafted beverages, breakfast sandwiches, and baked goods. During the warmer months, The Pineapple Club is a seasonal waterfront restaurant with live music, panoramic views, poolside cabanas, and coastal vacation staples. For a unique outdoor experience, The Firepits offer hand-crafted drinks, light bites, and seafood snacks around cozy fire pits with stunning sunset views.
From the smoky depths of Texas barbecue to the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Pacific Northwest and the classic coastal comfort of New England, this culinary journey has unveiled the unique and captivating food scenes of three distinct American regions. Each destination offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and exceptional ingredients, promising unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re craving perfectly smoked brisket, the freshest seafood with stunning ocean views, or a classic New England lobster roll, these culinary heartlands are ready to welcome you and tantalize your taste buds.