In 2024, extensive travel provided opportunities to experience exceptional dining across the United States. This list compiles the most memorable dishes of the year, encompassing both fine dining and casual restaurants. The selection, presented alphabetically by restaurant name, highlights culinary excellence and diverse flavors.
Central Provisions in Portland, Maine, consistently impresses. The Suckling Pig, served with apple brown butter and Marcona almonds, was a standout dish. The melt-in-your-mouth pork exemplifies the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and expertly crafted flavors. Their bread service is also highly recommended.
Cochon Restaurant in New Orleans, Louisiana, remains a culinary destination despite the city’s ever-evolving food scene. The Rabbit and Dumplings, a classic dish executed flawlessly, featured tender rabbit, savory sauce, and fluffy dumplings. The restaurant also boasts a noteworthy charcuterie selection.
Counter- in Charlotte, North Carolina, offers a unique dining experience with innovative dishes. The Doppio Ravioli, a highlight of the tasting menu, showcased delicate pasta filled with house-made ricotta and sea island red peas, demonstrating Chef Sam Hart’s culinary creativity.
Elia in East Rutherford, New Jersey, elevates traditional Greek cuisine. The Greek Spreads & Pita exceeded expectations with its fresh Tzatziki, Roasted Eggplant, and Fava Purée, all complemented by incredibly soft pita bread. This dish exemplifies the restaurant’s dedication to authentic flavors.
Elk Ave Tavern in Rock Hill, South Carolina, successfully transitioned from a popular food truck to a brick-and-mortar establishment. The Disco Fries, a truly indulgent dish, features French fries topped with braised beef, mozzarella cheese, and a rich stout gravy.
Ever Andalo in Charlotte, North Carolina, offers a charming ambiance and exceptional Italian cuisine. The Sunny Cavatelli, featuring al dente pasta with house-made pork sausage, kale, broccolini, and a sun-dried tomato cream sauce, was a perfectly balanced and flavorful dish.
In Bloom in Paso Robles, California, provides a sophisticated dining experience. The Snake River Farm Kurobuta Pork Shank, a shareable dish, was a highlight, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to high-quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. The dish is served with kimchi, carrot miso crema, zucchini pickles, and beet flatbread.
Justine in New Orleans, Louisiana, consistently delivers exceptional dishes. The Steak Tartare, featuring fresh horseradish, Dijon dressing, egg yolk, and pain de mie, was a standout example of this classic dish.
Kindred in Davidson, North Carolina, maintains its reputation for culinary excellence. The fried soft-shell crab, served with a creamy yogurt sauce, was a perfectly executed dish that showcased the restaurant’s dedication to fresh, seasonal ingredients. Don’t forget to try their exceptional bread service.
Llama Restaurant in St. Augustine, Florida, offers a unique Peruvian dining experience. The Hongos Bachiche, featuring chilled, chargrilled king trumpet mushrooms with Parmesan leche de tigre, toasted Andean corn, and micro cilantro, was a flavorful and refreshing dish. The restaurant’s ceviche dishes are also highly recommended.
Otis. in Exeter, New Hampshire, provides an intimate dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The Pork Loin, served with scallion polenta, corn, arugula, and Romanesco, was a memorable dish showcasing Chef Lee Frank’s culinary talent.
Roots Southern Table in Farmers Branch, Texas, celebrates Southern cuisine with modern interpretations. The King Crab Pasta, a special menu item, was a luxurious and flavorful dish that exemplified Chef Tiffany Derry’s culinary expertise.
The Blue Taj in Charlotte, North Carolina, offers authentic Indian cuisine in an elegant setting. The Crispy Fried Paneer, featuring paneer coated in panko-chickpea batter and served with pickled onions, jalapeño, cilantro, and chutney, was a flavorful and satisfying appetizer.
