Buffalo burgers! Old Fargo humor! North Dakota really sets a unique standard compared to South Dakota, doesn’t it?

On one hand, it’s the birthplace of Runza, a remarkable chain known for its gourmet Hot Pockets, and it boasts claims to inventing the Reuben sandwich while conveniently delivering steak to your mailbox. On the other hand, it’s a state with an abundance of corn, which might make you wonder why Nebraska doesn’t have its own Corn Palace. Build that palace, Nebraska!

Delaware’s signature food is often joked about as a simple sandwich – a slice of untoasted white bread with a modest spread of mayonnaise. Of course, that’s not true, but you had a moment of doubt, didn’t you?

It’s like the Arkansas of New England, without the possum pie, but with the added bonus of receiving free political T-shirts after standing behind Gary Hart in a Portsmouth diner during a campaign commercial, pretending to savor apple cider donuts and orange cake.

It’s quite baffling how the largest pork-producing state in America, by a significant margin, doesn’t boast a more robust barbecue scene. And the famous pork tenderloin sandwich, with its comically disproportionate meat-to-bun ratio, doesn’t quite make up for it.

While we’re enthusiastic about “fry sauce,” let’s be honest – it’s not too difficult to blend ketchup and mayo elsewhere. However, those sweet Jell-O molds are a distinctive treat worth celebrating!

There’s no denying that the cities (both of them!) offer some fantastic cuisine, and Pitchfork Fondue is a true modern dining marvel. However, it’s concerning that in a state where the cattle population more than doubles the human population, so many restaurants seem content to serve thawed Sysco patties and frozen steaks.

We’ve expressed our appreciation for South Dakota as an underrated state, so it’s not that we lack love. However, the vast distances separating fried steak tips in Belle Fourche, top-notch steaks in Sioux Falls, delicious subs in Yankton, and the country’s finest Indian tacos don’t exactly paint the picture of an extraordinary culinary destination. Nevertheless, there’s a certain charm in picking chislic out of your teeth while driving through the Badlands, isn’t there?

Boise is vying to become the Portland of Idaho, and it’s thriving with a vibrant food scene, offering everything from high-end farm-to-table dining to delectable burgers, pizza, and some incredibly inventive chicken wings. So, forget the potato jokes. As for the rest of the state… well, something, something, potato joke!

Kansas is certainly fortunate to have a piece of the KC metropolitan area, bringing culinary gems like Joe’s and a few other standouts. Beyond that, the culinary scene is less vibrant. Perhaps that’s why they’ve convinced themselves that some random town serves as the gateway to hell.

Alaska’s cuisine isn’t just about reindeer sausages and akutaq. Juneau and Anchorage boast fantastic dining scenes, with king crab reigning supreme on the dinner table. Surprisingly, Fairbanks offers an underrated Thai food scene. As for the rest of the state, well, you can count on finding some pretty good reindeer sausage!

You could say it’s like a more affluent version of Wyoming.

Arizona’s claim to fame in inventing the chimichanga by deep-frying a burrito is certainly noteworthy, and we can’t ignore our fixation on Pizzeria Bianco. However, the prevalence of chains across the arid expanse doesn’t quite spark excitement. Keep in mind that if you’re of advanced age, you might want to nudge Arizona up the rankings by seven spots. Conversely, if you belong to a minority group, Arizona might drop down the list by 13 spots.

Indianapolis has seen remarkable culinary progress in recent years, with places like the universally adored Milktooth infusing vitality into what was previously a predominantly chain-dominated dining landscape. When you venture beyond Indy, don’t forget to try some sugar cream pie, but you might want to think twice about the fried brain sandwich.

Oklahoma’s culinary identity sparks lively debates on various food forums. Is it the onion burger, BBQ, or fried catfish? The fact that there’s no unanimous agreement (though some firmly assert it’s the onion burger) is enough to keep Oklahoma from sliding down the culinary rankings.

Rhode Island offers Del’s frozen lemonade, grilled pizzas, decent Italian cuisine, and unfortunately, the least favored style of clam chowder. While Woonsocket is a delight to say, it may not add much to the culinary scene in this context.

If there were more culinary diversity beyond a rich hamburger history and New Haven’s unique pizza culture, maybe the Whalers wouldn’t have left you.

Las Vegas is like a Disney theme park of world cuisine, offering every food and drink imaginable. However, this luxury often comes at a high cost, leaving visitors with empty pockets searching for dubious shrimp cocktails. The rest of the state, aside from a few exceptions, can be likened to that sad little cup of bay shrimp and ketchup. Apologies to Carrot Top. But, on the bright side, you can head to Tahoe on the weekend, where you might want to consider dining on the California side.

Arkansas may not have the famous signature dishes or culinary styles that some of its more renowned neighbors boast, which often leaves it just shy of the culinary limelight. But if you take a step back, you’d find Arkansas there, slightly to the side, impatiently dipping a possum pie in cheese dip. Moreover, we’ve heard murmurs that SoMa in Little Rock is experiencing a culinary renaissance, thanks to places like The Root and a few other establishments. This serves as a gentle reminder to Mississippi not to become complacent, as the pig sooie calls draw nearer.

Contrary to its negative reputation, New Jersey can be seen as a budget-friendly alternative to New York, especially when it comes to Italian cuisine. It’s certainly a more flavorful option than being a budget-friendly Wyoming, or even a high-end one. What’s more, many of those classic red-sauce Italian restaurants let you bring your own wine, adding to the appeal.

Kentucky’s thriving bourbon culture might not be an official factor, but the buzz that accompanies indulging in a few too many bourbon balls certainly counts. With chefs like Edward Lee elevating the culinary scene, Louisville has become a genuine destination for food enthusiasts. However, in terms of signature state foods, the Hot Brown can be described as a turkey sandwich that decided to call it quits midway through its creation.

Northern Virginia has been benefiting from the influence of DC’s growing dining scene, resulting in numerous culinary highlights. Virginia’s centuries-old tradition of country ham is also worth noting. However, it’s worth mentioning that even more remarkable culinary developments are taking place in the states that will be discussed next. The competition is heating up!

The Twin Cities have a lot going for them, from diverse food scenes to unique dishes like hot dish and Nordic cuisine. However, the beloved Jucy Lucy, Minnesota’s cheese-stuffed burger, falls short due to a cheese-cooking dilemma. To solve it, how about not putting the cheese inside the burger at all?

While everyone raves about the green chiles in New Mexico, let’s not forget that… well, it’s all about the green chiles! Also, a moment of silence for Santa Fe Bite, closing on October 26, known for its amazing creations with green chiles and cheeseburgers.

We’re not recommending a diet consisting only of maple syrup, boutique ice cream, and artisanal cheeses, but if one were to embark on such an indulgence, Vermont would be the ideal location. Starting in Burlington, you’ll find they have a remarkable culinary talent that extends beyond cows and maple trees.

Cleveland is at the forefront of the Rust Belt food revival, led by chefs like Michael Symon and Jonathon Sawyer. Unique regional dishes such as the Polish Boy, Columbus-style pizza, and an array of pierogies coexist with beloved establishments like Swensons Drive-In and Tony Packo’s. The “chili on spaghetti” debate adds some character, and with ice cream from places like Jeni’s and Graeter’s, Ohio is emerging as a distinctive culinary force in the Great Lakes region.

Mississippi offers a remarkable variety of deep-fried Southern and soul food delicacies, such as catfish, pork chops, étouffée, po-boys, and jambalaya. It’s also known for pecan trees, caramel cakes, Gulf seafood like crabs and shrimp, award-winning barbecue, and a lively hot tamale scene in the Delta, blending African American and Mexican immigrant cultures. All of this contributes to Mississippi’s reputation as a state with a diverse and indulgent culinary heritage.

Florida has a lot to offer in the culinary department, with its oranges, key limes, starfruit, stone crabs, conch fritters, and Cuban delights like pork sandwiches, pastelitos, and arroz con pollo in Miami. St. Petersburg is emerging as a creative enclave with a host of enticing options. Let’s hope Mr. Dave Barry refrains from highway alligator antics.

“Crab cakes and football, right everyone?” That classic quote from the 2005 hit movie Wedding Crashers remains humorous in the right context. Maryland offers more than just crabs, though. Baltimore’s pit beef, often overlooked, is a carnivorous delight. However, once you get to Smith Island Cake, which is essentially a chocolate layer cake, it does seem like we’re stretching a bit. This is as far as Maryland’s culinary standing goes.

Kansas City and St. Louis are renowned for their outstanding BBQ joints, with burnt ends often hailed as the finest meat morsels. However, it’s equally easy to overlook the St. Paul sandwich and the acceptance of Provel cheese as a mozzarella substitute on pizza. This duality exemplifies the culinary landscape in the Texas of the Midwest.

Colorado’s culinary scene may not be defined by craft beer, but it shines in other ways. The state is known for offering some of the best edibles in the U.S., elevating the dining experience. With influences from various Western regions, a love for green chile, and a focus on meats like buffalo and Colorado lamb, Colorado’s food scene is a delightful mix. Plus, finding out that Rocky Mountain oysters are delicious might take a little courage.

Hawaii possesses a unique culinary magic, blending Polynesian, East Asian, and mainland influences to create one of the most distinctive American cuisines. The state’s abundant seafood and delectable Kalua pork rival the best. What truly sets Hawaiian cuisine apart is its ability to turn seemingly unconventional dishes like SPAM sushi and hamburger patties smothered in gravy served on rice into lifelong cravings.

Alabama’s culinary scene extends beyond white sauce barbecue, with a thriving food culture. Notably, Frank Stitt’s Highlands Bar and Grill earned a James Beard Award for most outstanding restaurant. Birmingham, particularly Avondale, has long been a food and drink destination. Places like Fisher’s in Orange Beach attract renowned Southern chefs for special events. Alabama’s farm-raised oysters, such as “Murder Point,” have gained national acclaim. And the state’s peaches have strong supporters who believe they surpass Georgia’s.

Wisconsin often gets pigeonholed for its cheese, sausages, and all things fried or smothered in cheese. While those are indeed delicious, it’s important not to overlook the accessible sophistication of Milwaukee and Madison’s restaurant scenes, the sheer delight of a lakeside fish fry, and the pure joy of biting into a Kringle. Even if it’s filled with cheese, it seems we’ve circled back to fried things and cheese, but who can blame us?

Massachusetts’ food scene is a mix of hits and misses. While some may not favor baked beans, Greek-style pizza, and Necco wafers, others find joy in New England clam chowder, lobster rolls from Neptune Oyster, the North End’s cannoli triangle, and fried clams from Ipswich and Cape Cod. Kelly’s roast beef, Deadhorse Hill, Pajer’s, and the White Hut are culinary gems. Despite controversies and changes, Massachusetts’ food scene offers a blend of frustration and culinary delights.

Charleston is now a staple on America’s culinary tourism circuit, known for its remarkable barbecue, including Rodney Scott’s whole hog and John Lewis’s Central Texas brisket. Beyond Charleston, Greenville is emerging as a global food destination, with innovative restaurants and distilleries. South Carolina’s culinary scene offers frogmore stew and a strong case for having better peaches than Georgia.

Atlanta’s culinary scene extends beyond lemon pepper wet wings, pecan pie, and peach cobbler. The city’s contemporary dining is on par with top destinations, offering a blend of slow-smoked, Southern fried delights. Savannah, in particular, deserves recognition for its contribution to the culinary landscape. This combination can make you momentarily forget about the events of Super Bowl LI.

Portland is undoubtedly one of the finest food cities in North America, known for spots like Eventide, Central Provisions, Fore Street, Palace Diner, and Duckfat. What makes Maine special are a few standout features done incredibly well: blueberries, lobster rolls, and clambakes. If you’re up for some culinary adventures, you can even find clams stuffed into LL Bean boots and baked. Don’t forget to visit the Kittery outlets for discounted maple syrup. In Maine, you can truly have it all.

Michigan’s culinary scene is diverse and thriving. It’s known for the original coney hot dog, substantial pasties, Detroit-style pizza, and the contributions of Little Caesars and Domino’s to American takeout pizza. The state offers a wealth of Polish, Greek, Middle Eastern, BBQ, and soul food. Traverse City and Grand Rapids are becoming culinary destinations, and the Yoopers have their own unique food culture. Michigan is also recognized for its farmers markets, fish fries, and venison chili, although the sight of roadkill can occasionally dampen one’s appetite.

North Carolina doesn’t just have one, but two of America’s great barbecue traditions. Beyond whole hog mastery, the state offers an array of culinary delights, from seafood shacks along the coast from Nags Head to Calabash to the evolving food scene in Asheville, which is starting to match its beer reputation. Charlotte’s food scene, while often underrated, also adds to the culinary appeal. If only ingesting tobacco were a more enjoyable experience, North Carolina might rank even higher.

Philadelphia’s diverse food scene ranges from upscale spots like Vernick Food & Drink and Vetri Cucina to iconic favorites like cheesesteaks and roast pork (try John’s). The city’s middle ground shines with places like Federal Donuts, and its BYOB restaurant culture is top-notch.

Pittsburgh has become a national food darling in recent years, thanks to culinary stars like Justin Severino, Sonja Finn, Richard DeShantz, and Becca Hegarty. The city is known for sandwiches with fries and an abundance of pierogis. Southeastern Pennsylvania’s farmlands offer impressive options, especially for dairy products, and don’t forget the legendary Amish foods, with pie as a top favorite.

Washington is a produce powerhouse, known for its delicious oysters and impressive seafood offerings. Seattle, often seen as Portland’s more refined counterpart, boasts fine dining and an excellent coffee culture. You can always find a great slice of cherry pie, and Leavenworth offers some of the best German food in the western U.S. But the real star is Washington’s salmon, especially when smoked on a cedar plank near Pike Place.

Any list of the top five American cities for dining that doesn’t include Chicago is incomplete and misguided. Chicago’s culinary scene is rich and diverse, and deep dish pizza is just a small part of it. The rest of the state has its own unique charms, including the indulgent horseshoe dish and a surprisingly underrated barbecue culture in the southern region.

Oregon’s culinary scene is a diverse and impressive tapestry. Portland shines with its farm-to-table movement, food carts, and brunch options. Central and western Oregon excel in beef, the coast offers dungeness crab and famous tuna, and Hood River boasts an abundance of fruit. Southern Oregon’s mountainous landscape hosts legendary off-highway restaurants, while the Willamette Valley wine country combines fine dining with casual cheese-munching. Don’t forget the beloved Tillamook cheese. Oregon’s food scene is certainly worth celebrating, but perhaps a little less enthusiastically.

Nashville’s food scene is on fire, and its spicy chicken dish is a sensation. However, Tennessee offers more than just hot chicken, and Memphis arguably takes the crown for the best fried chicken. When it comes to barbecue, Nashville is also making a name for itself, challenging Memphis’s reputation. Let’s celebrate Tennessee’s diverse food cultures, enjoy local beverages, and maybe even indulge in some Krystal after all is said and done.

Even if New Orleans were its own state, it would rank among the top 10 culinary destinations, renowned for iconic dishes like muffulettas, po-boys, and beignets, along with legendary restaurants such as Antoine’s and Commander’s Palace. The modern food scene is thriving, thanks to talented chefs like Nina Compton and Alon Shaya. Vietnamese cuisine is also exceptional in the city. New Orleans is a unique and rich culinary destination.

New York, the Big Apple, has much more to offer than just apples. It’s a melting pot of cuisines, thanks to its rich history of immigration and a diverse culinary scene. From iconic New York-style pizza to the delights of Michelin-starred restaurants, you can find any type of cuisine in the state. New York is famous for its fresh seafood, incredible bagels, and, of course, buffalo wings. The state’s food culture can induce a delightful food coma.

California offers a diverse culinary experience with an agriculture and farming system that supports a wide range of food cultures. From Mexican dishes like Sonoran hot dogs and burritos to Chinese classics like mapo doufu and soup dumplings, California has something for every food enthusiast. The state boasts its unique take on burgers and pizza, along with fresh produce like garlic and cherries in Gilroy. Oysters, cheeses, and wine country add to the culinary richness. The food scene in Los Angeles is thriving, and Sacramento is an underrated food destination. With its variety and quality, California is a top culinary state.

Houston is making a strong case for being the best food city in America due to its sprawling and diverse population, making it a culinary melting pot. Texas as a whole offers a wide range of culinary experiences, including world-class barbecue, Tex-Mex cuisine, and four major cities each with its unique food scene. Texas is experiencing a culinary renaissance and gaining recognition as a top food destination in the country.