Worth the Trip

Eater

March 6, 2026

Good vibes and Italian sandwiches at Bordo. | Sarah Vasquez/Bordo Deep in the west Texas desert, an Italian deli serves ethereal sandwiches and freshly milled pasta. On the tip of a Wisconsin peninsula, a homey, family-run restaurant offers some of the country’s most impressive Mexican fine dining. In a small town off a central California freeway, a casual French spot treats diners to Michelin-starred tasting menus. Living in a major city, you could go your whole life without encountering these restaurants, or the other culinary gems that dot small towns and rural communities across the U.S. That would be a tremendous mistake, even if you’re surrounded by excellent food near home. Traveling for a few hours (or days) to visit a special restaurant creates an unforgettable experience that transcends a single meal. It takes a bit more effort than visiting your neighborhood favorite around the corner, but every extra mile makes the food that much more rewarding. Head Way Out on a Wisconsin Peninsula for This Stellar Mexican Spot This Desert Italian Deli Is Worth the Drive Across Texas Pull Over in Central California for French-ish Fine-ish Dining Drive, Ferry, or Swim If You Must to Reach Washington State’s Outdoor Oyster Saloon Find a Party at This Historic Hudson Valley Tavern 12 Restaurants Worth a Drive (or Ferry Ride) From Seattle Where to Eat Between San Francisco and Los Angeles Where to Eat in the Hudson Valley Right Now 14 Restaurants Worth the Drive From Austin 20 Restaurants Worth the Drive From Chicago

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Originally published on Eater on 3/6/2026