By: Maya Abrams
When we think back to any special time or place, food is often part of what defines the experience. What we ate, the setting, the ambiance, and who we shared the meal with can be part of our core memories. A meal is much more than the food on your plate. This is especially true when traveling and exploring new places. Here are my top six restaurants in six states that I’ve visited:
1. Illinois: Pizzeria Portofino
Located directly on the iconic Chicago riverfront, Pizzeria Portofino is truly the most picturesque Italian restaurant. Although dining at Pizzeria Portofino during the winter months is enjoyable and delicious, sitting on their patio as a summer breeze fills the air is an experience like no other. In addition to beautiful scenery and a charming environment, the food is unbelievably delicious. The menu offers a wide array of salads, pastas, pizzas, and seafood as well as beverages, desserts, and appetizers. Whether you’re enjoying a mouthwatering wood-fired pizza, sipping a refreshing fruity beverage, or simply soaking in the Chicago summer air, Pizzeria Portofino is the quintessential Italian restaurant.
2. California: Din Tai Fung
A five-time Michelin Star recipient, as well as being named “one of the top ten gourmet restaurants in the world” by The New York Times, Din Tai Fung, a top-notch Taiwanese restaurant, is a remarkable place. Although there are several locations scattered around the globe, I’ve visited the Los Angeles location in Westfield Century City. Offering dumplings, soups, noodles, and more, Din Tai Fung’s extensive menu truly has it all. The sharable style of the menu allows you to get a taste of many different dishes. The experience of sitting at a table with loved ones while sharing a diverse selection of entrees and appetizers is incredibly special and uniting.
3. Ohio: Hubbard Grille
Located in the Columbus Short North Arts District, Hubbard Grille offers an upscale take on classic American-style food. As pizza becomes flatbread and traditional salads become wedge salads, Hubbard Grille creates a fresh twist on America’s favorite foods. The location of Hubbard Grille allows guests to take in the lively atmosphere of Columbus’s Short North Arts District and watch as the area truly comes alive at night. This environment paired with a side of parmesan truffle fries or a buffalo chicken flatbread is the recipe for a perfect evening.
4. Hawaii: Star Noodle
Famous for its wide variety of noodles and other Asian fusion-style meals, Star Noodle is the perfect place to end a long day in the Maui sun with a mouth-watering meal. Star Noodle offers an array of noodles, such as pad thai, garlic noodles, and an assortment of ramen dishes. However, their menu does not end there. Unique dishes such as tofu, green papaya salad, Vietnamese crepes, and miso butterfish allow guests to try new foods and expand their palette. In addition to their unique and delicious menu, the scenery of Star Noodle is one of a kind. Situated on the beach, customers can enjoy their meals while listening to the splashing of the waves and watching the sunset over the ocean.
5. Wisconsin: Bella Goose Cafe
Bella Goose Cafe is no ordinary breakfast spot. Their menu offers typical items such as egg sandwiches, waffles, and lattes with a twist. The cheddar and bacon “sammie” are topped with pepper jelly, and their classic waffle is garnished with fresh fruit as well as homemade granola and toasted pecans. Although their classic lattes and espressos are rich and flavorful, the uniqueness of Bella Goose lies in their extensive drink menu. From a lavender mint latte to a butter pecan latte, Bella Goose’s menu is incredibly creative and one-of-a-kind. With a modern interior layout and its location on the corner of the Wisconsin River, enjoying a meal or drink at Bella Goose is a calm and pleasant experience.
6. New York: Ess-A-Bagel
If you’re looking for the perfect New York-style bagel, look no further than Ess-A-Bagel. Although the restaurant appears small and unassuming from the outside, their doughy, bountiful, in-house-made bagels are what draw locals and tourists alike. Ess-A-Bagel is clearly a fan favorite as there are regular lines out the door, stretching down the block. Customers can’t get enough of their bagel and egg sandwiches as well as their fish, salads, and desserts. Ess-A-Bagel is the quintessential New York bagel shop and a must-visit for New Yorkers and tourists.
From Taiwanese food to pizza to noodles to lattes and more, these restaurants across the country show the distinct flavors each state has to offer. Each spot was unique and special, demonstrating the value of using food to explore new places.