Story perspectives

Top U.S. Restaurants Showcase Diverse Culinary Delights

1/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In 2026, the New York Times Food staff surveyed 33 states and sampled over 200 meals to identify top U.S. restaurants.
They highlighted dishes such as tostadas, knife-cut noodles, and gravlax as standout offerings.
One standout is picadillo mac and cheese from a San Antonio restaurant noted for thickly spiced brisket.
Another highlight is a crunchy heritage-corn tostada from a Nashville eatery, showing diverse traditional and innovative dishes nationwide.

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Story summary

In 2026, the New York Times Food staff surveyed 33 states and sampled over 200 meals to identify top U.S. restaurants.
They highlighted dishes such as tostadas, knife-cut noodles, and gravlax as standout offerings.
One standout is picadillo mac and cheese from a San Antonio restaurant noted for thickly spiced brisket.
Another highlight is a crunchy heritage-corn tostada from a Nashville eatery, showing diverse traditional and innovative dishes nationwide.