Celebrity chef and TV icon Anthony Bourdain became famous for his fearless culinary adventures on shows like A Cook’s Tour (Food Network), the Emmy-winning No Reservations (Travel Channel), and CNN’s Parts Unknown. Renowned for his discerning palate and unfiltered honesty, Bourdain’s praise could turn a humble eatery into a must-visit destination. In this guide, we spotlight some of his favorite restaurants across America – from legendary pizzerias and classic delis to celebrated fine dining spots. How many have you checked off your list?
Click or scroll through our gallery to discover our ranking of Anthony Bourdain’s favorite American restaurants, counting down to the most unmissable of all.
Our selections are based on the restaurants featured on Anthony Bourdain's TV shows, as well as genuine user reviews, awards and accolades, and the first-hand experience of our team. They're also regularly checked and updated.
Anthony Bourdain stopped by this restaurant inside the historic Murray Block Hotel in 2016, confirming what Livingston locals had long known: it’s the perfect spot to enjoy refined European cuisine with a seasonal twist. Joined by local legend, poet, and author Jim Harrison, Bourdain indulged in a selection of delicious dishes such as a paupiette of braised whitefish stuffed with smoked trout, crowned with caviar and beurre blanc, and served on a bed of fresh local spinach.
Anthony Bourdain began his career at Ciro & Sal's, starting out as a dishwasher before working his way up to line cook. A must-visit for devoted Bourdain fans, this cozy little Italian spot, which first opened its doors in 1954, is known for timeless classics like spaghetti Bolognese and rich, creamy carbonara. Bourdain's go-to order, the veal Marsala, remains a highly recommended choice.
At Al-Ameer, Bourdain feasted on traditional Lebanese favorites such as baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, hummus, kibbeh, cheese and meat pies, and raw lamb kibbeh nayeh. Having previously filmed in Beirut, he was eager to revisit the bold Mediterranean flavors he loved – and he certainly wasn’t disappointed. Today, diners continue to rave about the authentic cooking and friendly service. Those who've eaten here particularly recommend the generous mixed platter, piled high with chicken and beef shawarma, kofta, kebabs, and pillowy fresh-baked pita bread.
Polonia’s website still proudly highlights its moment in the spotlight when Anthony Bourdain visited back in 2009 – and rightly so. This charmingly traditional Polish restaurant continues to earn glowing reviews for its fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced dishes. To dine like Bourdain, order a spread of classics such as hearty sausage, stuffed cabbage, potato dumplings, rich goulash, roast duck with applesauce, and crispy latkes topped with mushrooms.
Before visiting Burt’s Place, Anthony Bourdain wasn’t a fan of Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza. But after sampling a perfectly baked pie topped with peppers, mushrooms, and spinach, he was pleasantly surprised. Loyal regulars insist that Burt’s serves the best pizza in town, and Bourdain himself famously declared: “Burt’s was the only deep-dish pizza I ever loved.”
Dating back to 1893, The Sample Room has been under its current ownership since 2002, and it's celebrated for its menu of Midwestern comfort food and inventive small plates. Bourdain praised the cozy, unpretentious spot for its 'great food' after indulging in hearty dishes like classic meatloaf, crispy breaded walleye, and house-made sausage with mustard.
When Anthony Bourdain visited Michael’s Genuine in 2011, he called it 'the best restaurant in Miami right now.' The eatery remains a favorite among diners, who love its lively, buzzy atmosphere and menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Grab a seat on the patio and watch the world go by, or settle in at the bar like Bourdain, who enjoyed bar snacks such as deviled eggs, and figs topped with hazelnuts, arugula, local honey, and gorgonzola.
Anthony Bourdain loved this iconic hot dog stand on Kauai’s picturesque Poipu Beach, famously describing its sweet Hawaiian buns – fully encasing each dog – as 'disturbing in appearance' but 'ingenious in design.' Guests can choose between veggie or Polish dogs, smothered in the stand’s secret garlic-lemon sauce with varying levels of heat, and topped with tropical fruits like coconut, pineapple, papaya, banana, and mango (Bourdain’s personal favorite).
This beloved local diner, which opened in 1957, serves a menu of island classics alongside American staples. During his visit, Bourdain ordered the 'delicious' classic plate lunch: rice, macaroni, or green salad, and a choice of proteins including spare ribs, roast pork, and hamburger steak. Tasty Crust also offers a hearty breakfast menu, featuring build-your-own omelets, steak (or fish) and eggs, and local breakfast loco moco: a hamburger patty topped with gravy and a fried egg, served over a scoop of rice.
This Jewish deli, opened in 1908, has become a true New York City institution, where locals flock for a breakfast of smoked fish served with a bagel. Bourdain was a regular, and his go-to order was a sturgeon platter accompanied by nova eggs and caramelized onions. He famously remarked, “If God made anything better, he kept it for himself.”
The award-winning Canlis, named the second-best restaurant in America by Food & Wine magazine (behind Burdell in Oakland, California), is widely regarded as the premier dining destination in Seattle. Housed in an incredible glass building, it offers breathtaking views of the city, Lake Union, and the Cascade Mountains. During his visit, Bourdain indulged in artichoke tortellini, steak tartare, and Dungeness crab cake appetizers, followed by duck with orange chutney, fennel, and cipollini onions, Gleeson Ranch ribeye, and rich Ibérico pork cheek.
New York’s oldest deli, opened in 1888, has become a celebrity in its own right, thanks in part to that iconic When Harry Met Sally scene. Bourdain gushed about the legendary establishment, saying that a visit here reminds you 'what it means to be alive, to be proud, to be a New Yorker.' While he was here, he was filmed savoring a towering, perfectly stacked pastrami on rye sandwich.
Bourdain described the cuisine at this James Beard Award–winning Thai restaurant as 'perfection,' a sentiment shared by diners who rave about not only the food, but also the warm ambiance and attentive service. To eat like Bourdain, sample a selection of dishes – he especially loved the puffed crispy rice with sausage, the fragrant pork curry with ginger, and the vibrant jackfruit salad.
Serving classic Southern cuisine, this stylish restaurant highlights local, seasonal ingredients in thoughtfully crafted, flavorful dishes. Anthony Bourdain enjoyed a meal that included country ham cured to resemble Italian charcuterie, as well as cornmeal johnnycakes topped with a poached egg, bacon, duck liver, and syrup. The restaurant is also renowned for its perfectly executed cheeseburgers, which have become a mainstay on the menu – though they were originally limited to just 24 servings nightly from 10pm.
Mizuna’s French-inspired, monthly-changing menu consistently earns acclaim from diners, making it a favorite destination for special occasions. During his visit, Anthony Bourdain sampled several standout dishes, including a tasting plate of foie gras, roasted squab, and blood sausage, and a sweetbread cassoulet with baby lamb. He’s not the only famous face to have dined at the restaurant – Michelle Obama, Robert Plant, and members of the band U2 have all enjoyed meals here, too.
Legendary Nashville dive bar Dino’s is the place to go for juicy cheeseburgers and perfectly crispy French fries. This lively, no-frills joint often has a line out the door, but the experience is definitely worth the wait. When he visited, Bourdain opted for a classic burger paired with Dino’s famous hot fries, seasoned with hot chicken seasoning, and generously smothered in melted cheese.
This hole-in-the-wall sandwich shop has been a Jackson institution for years, known for its legendary pigs’ ear sandwiches and flavorful tamales. Bourdain sampled both, along with a smoked sausage sandwich piled high with slaw, mustard, and house-made hot sauce; he noted that that the meaty filling, nestled in a pillowy soft roll, was hard to beat.
Renowned for its use of Hatch chiles, this restaurant is one of New Mexico's premier destinations for authentic Mexican cuisine, where diners can order any dish 'Christmas style' – with both red and green chili peppers. Bourdain savored enchiladas prepared this way, declaring them to be the best he’d ever had. The restaurant is usually packed with locals, a sure sign of truly excellent food.
Since opening in 1992, Side Street Inn has earned an impressive array of awards and accolades. It also received high praise from Anthony Bourdain, who described its food as an 'amazing blend of Asian cultures.' During his visit, he enjoyed a variety of dishes, including Chinese steamed fish, fried shrimp, and a fried pork chop. Diners consistently rave about the bold flavors in every dish, as well as the friendly, attentive staff.
At this lively pizzeria, where perfectly baked pies are served up a fun space complete with arcade games, Bourdain sampled a classic Margherita, quattro formaggio, and clam pie, declaring them top quality. In addition to the house specialties at Apizza Scholls, diners can build their own pies – but there are rules: no more than three toppings, and no more than three meats. Locals say it’s the best pizza you’ll ever eat, making it a must-visit spot when in Portland.
Old-school steakhouse Keen’s has been serving diners since 1885 – and Anthony Bourdain once declared that you won’t find anywhere better, or more authentic. The historic setting, complete with oil paintings, rich wood paneling, and impressive taxidermy, perfectly complements the classic menu. To dine like Bourdain, order the jumbo shrimp cocktail, king’s cut prime rib, savory mutton chops, and creamed spinach.
Diners rave about Primo for its cozy ambience, attentive service, and fresh, flavorful cuisine, often calling it a hidden gem. This seasonal farm-to-table restaurant operates only during the summer months, but it’s definitely worth planning a visit. Anthony Bourdain savored dishes such as pea soup with ham hock and pigs’ ear salad, foie gras served on panettone, and a smoked pork rib chop.
This friendly neighborhood market and café offers charcuterie, artisan cheeses, sandwiches, salads, and a tempting brunch menu, earning praise from locals who say everything is delicious. Anthony Bourdain enjoyed a sampler plate featuring culatello Italian ham, chicken liver pâté, and his favorite snack: blood sausage.
Bourdain loved Swan Oyster Depot so much that he returned several times, savoring what is widely regarded as the West Coast’s best fresh seafood. His favorite order was a platter of fresh raw oysters paired with the restaurant's signature crab back: an indulgent seafood snack made from the interior of a Dungeness crab. Opened in 1912, this no-frills spot seats just 18 at a marble counter, but diners adore its old-school charm and consistently outstanding seafood.
Bourdain was a devoted fan of chef Donald Link, who runs Cochon (as well as several other acclaimed restaurants in the New Orleans area). This contemporary eatery offers a menu of Creole classics crafted from locally sourced pork, fresh produce, and seafood. During his visit, Bourdain enjoyed boudin sausage with mustard, breaded pork cheeks with creamy grits and mac ‘n’ cheese, and his favorite dish of the meal: ham hock with red beans, charred radish, and chicken hearts.
Located just opposite the iconic Pike Place Market – where Bourdain sampled treats from several stalls – Beechers Handmade Cheese has become one of Seattle's most popular lunch spots. The café serves a tempting selection of paninis and soups alongside its famous 'world’s best' mac ‘n’ cheese. During his visit, Bourdain especially enjoyed learning about the cheesemaking process.
This award-winning barbecue spot is a local legend, loved by diners for its perfectly smoky, tender, and juicy meats. To eat like Bourdain, order the signature pit beef sandwich: grilled beef, crispy on one side and rare on the other, served on rye bread with onions and tangy tiger sauce (a blend of horseradish and mayonnaise).
Boasting three Michelin stars, The French Laundry is a must-visit for food lovers, and Bourdain was overjoyed to dine here alongside four of his chef friends. Together, they shared an almighty 80-course feast, including a whimsical 'coffee and cigarette' creation made especially for Bourdain: Marlboro cigarettes crushed into coffee-custard ice cream, served with a foie gras mousse.
Chef Roy Choi’s Kogi barbecue tacos, served from what's become an iconic LA food truck, are definitely worth seeking out. Anthony Bourdain sampled these legendary Mexican Korean tacos alongside spicy pineapple tortas and a pork quesadilla loaded with Cheddar Jack cheese and zesty salsa verde. Be sure to check the website for the truck’s daily location.
For some of the freshest Japanese cuisine in town, head away from The Strip to Raku, known for its expertly prepared sushi and inventive small plates. During his visit, Anthony Bourdain savored sea urchin, tuna, river crab, sashimi, and his personal favorite – fish collar. Diners also rave about the skewers and stone-grilled wagyu, making the restaurant a must-visit for Japanese food enthusiasts.
This scratch kitchen is famed for serving some of the best sandwiches in Seattle, featuring mouthwatering fillings like Italian roast pork with provolone, roasted garlic dijonnaise, and warm broccoli rabe. Anthony Bourdain called this modest, family-run Italian deli a 'sacred place,' praising the house-made salami, exceptional ingredients, and authentic ambiance.
During a visit to fine dining restaurant Bacchus, Anthony Bourdain savored Wisconsin beer cheese soup with maple-glazed pork belly and a crispy egg mollet, served alongside saffron curry potato salad, crème fraîche, and caviar – and he was heard to remark, “Who wouldn’t enjoy this?” between mouthfuls. Established in 1993, Bacchus is the perfect spot for a special occasion, with a menu featuring standout dishes such as charred Spanish octopus, roasted tomato risotto, and tender filet mignon.
Girl and the Goat’s seasonally changing menu of global flavors left a strong impression on Bourdain. He enjoyed a salad of roasted beets, green beans, kale, and anchovies, followed by rich escargot ravioli with tamarind, bacon, and crispy fried onions. Helmed by Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard, the restaurant is a go-to destination for creative cuisine paired with attentive, welcoming service.
Yardbird is the go-to spot in Miami for modern Southern comfort food, and its signature dish – fried chicken drizzled with hot honey, served alongside spiced watermelon and Cheddar cheese waffles – was a favorite of Anthony Bourdain’s. He also enjoyed shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes with pork belly, and indulgent chocolate chip pancakes topped with bourbon maple syrup.
Barley Swine, a Michelin-starred farm-to-table restaurant, offers a tasting menu of small, shareable plates, and it's a must-visit for foodies celebrating a special occasion. Anthony Bourdain certainly thought it was fantastic; he raved about the place after sampling dishes such as chilled asparagus and spinach soup with Parmesan beer fritters, shrimp with Greek garlic rice, and a chicken-fried egg paired with sweetbreads.
Anthony Bourdain was a passionate supporter of this non-profit restaurant, which teaches at-risk people how to cook and work in the food industry. The restaurant was featured in a 2007 episode of No Reservations that charted Bourdain's post–Hurricane Katrina visit to New Orleans; while here, he enjoyed a shrimp and white bean bowl with cornbread and collard greens, as well as roasted bone-in chicken. Café Reconcile consistently earns high praise from diners, who highlight both the excellent food and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
This no-frills eatery has been slinging hot dogs since 1921, and customers still insist it’s the best place for Coneys in Detroit. While Anthony Bourdain could easily have found a delicious dog in his hometown of New York City, he followed the locals’ advice and headed to Duly’s to see what all the fuss was about. He famously declared his Coney dog – piled high with chili, mustard, and onions – 'symphonic.'
Israeli restaurant Zahav, winner of the 2019 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant, lives up to its acclaim. During his visit, featured in a 2013 episode of Parts Unknown, Anthony Bourdain let chef Michael Solomonov select his meal. He savored highlights such as the creamiest hummus served with warm laffa bread, and slow-roasted lamb shoulder topped with chickpeas in pomegranate juice, accompanied by a side of fragrant Persian-style spiced rice.
This classic American diner in South Boston is a local favorite, known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and generous plates brimming with comforting, satisfying fare. Anthony Bourdain said that it served 'a perfect example of what corned beef hash and eggs should taste like' – and, while here, he also enjoyed a massive omelet stuffed with ham, cheese, and fresh vegetables.
The menu at neighborhood bistro Fig changes nightly to highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients, and diners often say a meal here ranks among the best they’ve ever had. Guests rave about the flavorful cuisine, inviting atmosphere, and attentive service. Anthony Bourdain was equally impressed during his visit, enjoying soft shell crab with pasta, slow-baked black bass, and chicken confit with Carolina gold rice.
Aaron Franklin’s renowned Texas barbecue joint is the ultimate destination for perfectly smoked, juicy brisket and other mouthwatering meats. Like all the other devoted barbecue fans, Anthony Bourdain waited in line before finally securing his plate of the 'holy trinity of Texas barbecue': brisket, ribs, and sausage. Diners recommend arriving before 9am to ensure you get the food you want. While you wait, there are lawn chairs and complimentary water – but once the meat's gone, it’s gone.
Fine dining restaurant The Catbird Seat has moved location since Anthony Bourdain’s visit, but it remains one of Nashville’s top destinations for inventive, cutting-edge cuisine. The menu rotates frequently, but while he was here, Bourdain enjoyed Japanese-style linguini with smoked scallops, as well as a risotto made with sunflower seeds in place of rice.
Run by James Beard–nominated chefs Mike Costello and Amy Dawson, Lost Creek Farm is tucked away in the rolling hills of Harrison County, offering a truly unforgettable dining experience – if you can secure a reservation, that is. The 2025 Farm & Forage Supper Club is currently sold out, though additional dates may be added. Menus vary based on ingredients harvested from the farm, but during his visit, Anthony Bourdain enjoyed dishes such as sweetcorn chowder with communion wafer crackers, and buttermilk-fried rabbit drizzled with fresh maple syrup.
Paesano's is regarded as the best sandwich spot in Philadelphia – and Bourdain’s visit lived up to the hype. He indulged in not one, but four sandwiches, including the Arista (pictured): a towering creation loaded with roasted suckling pig, broccoli rabe, chili peppers, and sharp provolone. This stylish Italian deli also offers a tempting selection of antipasti, from crispy short rib meatballs and mozzarella sticks to golden arancini.
Formerly known as Oklahoma Joe’s, Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que was a favorite of Anthony Bourdain’s, who visited twice for A Cook’s Tour and No Reservations. On his first visit, he devoured a Carolina pork sandwich topped with creamy coleslaw, along with some irresistible burnt ends (which were so good that he ordered them again on his second visit), accompanied by smoked chicken halves, pork ribs, and a pulled pork plate. Housed in a converted gas station, Joe’s exudes charm and consistently earns rave reviews for serving some of the best barbecue around.