Food has become a fantastic way to experience the world. You can learn so much about a new city or culture from a single dinner plate. And there's no better place to do this than North America.
The continent is a haven for foodies. This is thanks to all the different cultures that have found a home here. From delicious treats to savory suppers, plenty of dishes can satisfy any traveling foodie's hunger.
But North America is huge. And with hundreds of millions of citizens, knowing where to go to sample the best foods can be overwhelming. Bearing that in mind, let's take a look at some of the best cities you should keep on your food radar.
New Orleans—the city of jazz and jambalaya
New Orleans is easily one of the best cities for food in Northern America. It is located on the Mississippi River and is famous for jazz, festivals, and exquisite cuisine.
It is a must-visit place for travelers interested in both Creole and Cajun food. These dishes come in a variety of forms, from tasty jambalaya and gumbo to sandwich-style dishes like po'boys.
But it's how they are cooked and the ingredients used that separate Creole from Cajun. Creole food, for example, is seen as “city cooking,” bringing the city's Spanish, African, and European history to the plate. Expect fresh, local ingredients and rich spices with every mouthful.
Cajun food, on the other hand, is more home-cooked. This is where the French Acadian culture rises to the top, as meals promise heavy seasoning. Dishes often come in a “one pot” style, with a healthy selection of vegetables.
New York City—the delicious Big Apple
With a nickname like “The Big Apple,” it's no surprise that New York City is a food metropolis. From street vendors to world-class restaurants, every corner promises a special meal to savor.
But what makes NYC a haven for foodies is the diversity on offer. The city is often called the world's cultural capital because it is home to many ethnicities. The result? A rich choice of foods to sample from across the world!
So, which ones should you focus on during a food visit? Some of the best NYC foods include Italian food, like rustic gnocchi and mouth-watering pasta dishes. The city promises some of the world's best pizzas, including traditional Margherita and street corner slices.
You should also make a pit stop at Asian Quarters for a bite. A variety of Singaporean-style dishes blend several Asian flavors onto a single plate. Afterward, you can indulge your sweet tooth in the city's various bakeries. Special delicacies include Sicilian cannolis, traditional waffles, and NYC rainbow bagels.
Montreal—where poutine is simply unmissable
Yes, Montreal is technically in Canada, but it's only a short trip from New York City! And the hours or so spent traveling across the border there will be well worth the effort.
Montreal is a haven for both sweet and savory foods. After all, the province of Quebec is one of the world's largest maple syrup producers. Expect an assortment of delicious desserts at every location, including maple syrup cakes, tarts, and taffy.
But let's be honest. Montreal's main draw is, and will always be, poutine. This signature dish includes French fries and cheese curds topped with brown gravy. Originating in the 1950s, it has become the unofficial dish of Canada. Poutine has been celebrated worldwide for its unbeatable flavor and unusual texture.
Want to try the best poutine? Then you got to visit La Banquise. This 24-hour restaurant has over thirty poutine recipes to taste on the menu. But before crossing that border, foodies are reminded to pack one thing for the road—an eSIM for Canada. This virtual SIM card will allow you to change mobile networks with ease and share your food stories wherever you travel.
Houston—the best Tex-Mex and barbecue worldwide
As one of the biggest cities in the state of Texas, Houston is another amazing food destination. With influences from both Mexico and nearby Louisiana, it promises truly distinctive cuisine.
In particular, Houston has made a name for its famous Tex-Mex food scene. This genre of Southwestern cuisine is a fusion of Hispanic influences. As such, expect bold flavors that pack a punch.
Tex-Mex ingredients include shredded cheeses, beans, meat, and spices mixed in a flour tortilla. Dishes vary from fajitas and tacos to chili con carne, enchiladas, and chili bowls. Regardless of your choice, they are guaranteed to leave you feeling satisfied after every bite!
No trip to Houston would be complete without experiencing its world-class barbecue food. The city balances sweet, salty, and tangy flavors for a truly unique experience. Try juicy briskets, tender ribs, and pulled meats for the ultimate indulgence.
Las Vegas—for a little taste of everything
The final suggestion might take many by surprise. But Las Vegas is fast becoming a food capital in North America and worldwide. While it may not have a history of unique food, it's attracted so many gourmet and Michelin-star restaurants that fine dining is guaranteed.
Best of all, Las Vegas has a huge variety of different themed restaurants. This means you can taste a little bit of everything in one place. From French cuisine at the Bellagio to delicious Japanese meals at Caesars Palace, food lovers will be spoiled for choice!
Of course, for those looking to take a little something home, there are plenty of specialty gourmet stores in Las Vegas to explore.