Did you know there are nearly one million restaurants in the United States? But let’s be honest—not all of them are worth your time (or taste buds). Based on flavor, atmosphere, and a little help from my foodie friend Nick (who’s basically a walking Michelin guide), I’ve narrowed down the top 5 restaurants in America you absolutely must visit.
But wait—why am I even doing this?
Well, here’s the twist: I have a tattoo on my ankle that says “Eat your veggies,” and yet… I’ve hated vegetables for the last three years. Still do. Or at least, I did. So this quest became personal. If these five restaurants couldn’t make me fall in love with veggies, then nothing ever could.
Spoiler alert: One of them did.
5. Una Pizza Napoletana – Manhattan, New York
Considered one of the best pizzerias in the world, this gem is located right in the heart of Manhattan. Even without a reservation, people were lined up outside when I arrived.
Inside, the ambiance was incredible—and I had a front-row seat to watch Chef Anthony himself craft pizzas by hand. My journey began with a burrata that was hands-down the creamiest, most flavorful cheese I’ve ever tasted. Then came the famous Margherita pizza, cooked in a wood-fired oven, soft and bubbling with cheese. I was speechless.
For dessert, I ordered a gelato that was smooth, rich, and dreamy. The waiter even brought over a cup of espresso, making the whole experience feel like a warm Italian hug.
Service options: Serves vegetarian dishes
Address: 175 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, United States
Phone: +1 646-476-4457
Menu: unapizza.com
4. Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen – Las Vegas, Nevada
Located on the Las Vegas Strip, Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen is one of America’s most iconic restaurants. I went there with my friend, YouTuber Haley Pham, and to our surprise, Gordon himself recommended a few dishes!
We had:
- Pan-seared scallops
- Lobster risotto
- His signature Beef Wellington
Every bite was a culinary masterpiece. Haley told me she’d never experienced flavors like these before. The Wellington melted in our mouths, though I have to admit—I still couldn’t handle the veggies that came with the scallops.
Dessert? We shared Gordon’s famous sticky toffee pudding, a heavenly mix of caramel and brown sugar. Worth every calorie.
3. Cattleack Barbeque – Dallas, Texas
Welcome to Texas BBQ heaven.
Cattleack Barbeque is a hidden gem in Dallas and often ranks among the best BBQ spots in the country. I went with my dad, and we were literally first in line. According to owner Todd David, the secret to great BBQ is love—and you can taste it in every bite.
We ordered:
- Beef ribs
- Pork ribs
- Brisket
- Sausages
Each dish was tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. My dad was so impressed he could barely speak. And the “Crack Cake” for dessert? Sweet, sticky, and unforgettable.
Service options: Outdoor seating · Doesn’t accept reservations · High chairs
Address: 13628 Gamma Rd, Farmers Branch, TX 75244, United States
Phone: +1 972-805-0999
Menu: cattleackbbq.com
2. Sushi Ginza Onodera – Los Angeles, California
This Michelin-starred sushi restaurant in LA offers a curated omakase (chef’s choice) experience—and it was unlike anything I’ve ever had before.
Right before my eyes, skilled chefs prepared fresh fish and seafood with surgical precision. The presentation was artful, and the flavors were delicate yet deep. I was served:
- Tuna and salmon sushi
- Octopus and crab
- Various other ocean delicacies
Although I normally don’t eat large meals, I finished everything. I felt full, satisfied, and oddly emotional. It was that good.
See also: Boucherie West Village Reviews: Must-Visit French Brunch Spot in NYC.
1. Eleven Madison Park – New York City, New York
This was it—the big one. America’s #1 restaurant, located in NYC, with three Michelin stars and a fully plant-based menu.
I went with my friend Nick DiGiovanni, a MasterChef finalist and popular YouTuber. Given my hatred for vegetables, I was nervous. But the first course—a beautifully layered onion dish—blew my mind. One by one, veggie-based courses kept arriving, and I found myself… enjoying them. All of them.
By the end of the meal, my perspective had changed. Vegetables weren’t the enemy anymore—they were the stars. Eleven Madison Park made me believe in the power of plants.
Service options: Reservations required · Private dining room · Great cocktails
Located in: Sony Square NYC
Address: 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010, United States
Phone: +1 212-889-0905
Reservations: tripleseat.com, resy.com
See also: Gramercy Tavern Reviews NYC: Dining Experience.
Final Thoughts: From Veggie-Hater to Veggie-Lover?
These five restaurants didn’t just serve incredible food—they told stories, sparked emotions, and most importantly, made me appreciate vegetables for the first time in years. If you’re looking for unforgettable dining experiences in the U.S., start with this list.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll fall in love with veggies too.
I’m a food enthusiast and reviewer with a passion for discovering and sharing exceptional dining experiences. Through honest and detailed restaurant reviews, I aim to help readers make informed choices and explore the best of the culinary scene.