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The Most Charming Small-Town Restaurant in Every State

January 31, 2025
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These destinations offer plenty of local flavor, inviting dining rooms and other surprises. You won't want to miss them.

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Hidden Gems Wherever You Are

Not too many things fit together better than travel and food. Though some people may just eat out of necessity and travel for pleasure, the truth is that if you can find a joyous way to fuse the two together, every bite you take can easily become an adventure. And while many people believe that you have to travel to other countries or big cities to experience the best parts of life, sometimes it’s those small towns that truly bring the charm and the must-have dishes that you’ll be raving about for years to come.

Whether you’re just passing through or are opting to knock a few landmarks off of your bucket list, there are plenty of off-the-radar cities and towns that pack a big punch when it comes to food and drinks. Not sure where to start? Our list of the best and most iconic small-town restaurants in each state will get you moving in the right direction.

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Cullman, Alabama: All Steak Restaurant

Cullman may not be the first city you think of when visiting Alamba. But after you stop by All Steak Restaurant, however, you’ll wonder why you weren’t frequenting the city sooner. A cornerstone of the city since 1938, it’s said that folks travel from all over just to get a taste of the restaurant’s prime ribs and signature orange rolls. The special thing about the meat? The restaurant only sources Certified Angus Beef, which is higher than the USDA’s stringent Prime standards.

Location: 323 3rd Ave SE, Cullman, Alabama 35055

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Valdez, Alaska: Fu Kung

Home to just under 4,000 people, Valdez, Alaska is a must-visit location for its scenic views. Described by some as the most beautiful city in Alaska, Valdez also keeps people talking for another reason: Fu Kung. Opened in 1994, this family-owned restaurant delivers quality sushi alongside Chinese and Thai food that will keep you coming back for more — even if you’re not a local.

Location: 207 Kobuk Drive, Valdez, Alaska 99686

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Sedona, Arizona: Mariposa

Looking for a picturesque location with killer food? Sedona’s Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill is your one-stop shop for delicious dining. Brought to you by one of the country’s leading female chefs, Lisa Dahl, Mariposa opened its doors in 2015 and hasn’t slowed down since. Equipped with architecture as exquisite as its menu items, the property overlooks a scenic bluff surrounded by red canyons. Guests are welcomed by 13-foot statuesque gates and wrapped in 23-foot floor-to-ceiling windows while dining in the main room. As far as the menu goes, you’ll have a hard time deciding whether you should show up for the wood-fired burgers at lunch or the tapas at dinner.

Location: 700 Highway 89a, Sedona, Arizona 86351

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