39 Must-Visit US Restaurants
USA TODAY released its list of 39 must-visit restaurants across the United States for 2026, featuring destination-worthy menus and innovative concepts. The selection spans from high-end fine dining to inventive casual spots. A rural Ontario restaurant was separately named Canada's best restaurant in the annual Canada's 100 Best list, chosen by 160 judges.
- The USA TODAY list is compiled based on nominations from the media network's local journalists and food writers across the country who are familiar with their respective dining scenes. A team of editors then narrows down the initial 150+ nominations. - Among the recognized US restaurants are Hamir's Indian Fusion in York, Pennsylvania, Spencer, a wine shop and restaurant in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Whatcha Smokin? BBQ + Brew, a central Texas-style eatery located in Luther, Iowa. - The Canadian restaurant named number one on the Canada's 100 Best list is Restaurant Pearl Morissette, located in Jordan Station in the Niagara region. It is run by chefs Daniel Hadida and Eric Robertson. - This is the first time a rural restaurant has topped the Canada's 100 Best list, which is selected by 160 judges from across the country. - Restaurant Pearl Morissette also holds two Michelin stars and a Michelin Green Star for its sustainability practices, which include using seasonal produce from its own farm. - Other Ohio restaurants on the USA TODAY list include Veritas in Columbus, known for its chef's tasting menu, and Mita's in Cincinnati, from James Beard-nominated chef Jose Salazar. - In Iowa, a high-end steakhouse and oyster bar that opened in May 2024, Prime & Providence in West Des Moines, also earned a spot on the USA TODAY list.
