From bakeries and farm-to-table restaurants to thriving farmers markets and specialty food shops, these 10 small towns – voted as the best by readers – pack big flavor. Here are the 10 best small town food scenes in the United States for 2023.
Photo courtesy of Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce
No. 10: Bar Harbor, Maine
Lobster. Lobster bisque. Lobster rolls. Eggs Benedict with lobster or lobster omelet. Over 90 restaurants in little Bar Harbor compete with fresh-off-the-boat seafood, so it’s no surprise the quality is top-notch, and the ambiance is unbeatable. For a different twist or change of pace from lobster, try bangers and mash at Leary’s Landing Irish Pub or the veal piccata at La Bella Vita Ristorante.
Photo courtesy of Stillwater/Oak Park Heights Convention & Visitor Bureau
No. 9: Stillwater, Minnesota
According to 10Best contributor Chelle Koster Walton, “this river city wears its past in its fun and funky restaurants,” including romantic rooftop eateries overlooking the St. Croix River and casual sidewalk cafes. Fill up on hearty German fare at Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter, sip a mai tai at the Tilted Tiki, grab dinner and a cocktail from LoLo American Kitchen & Craft Bar or eat outdoors at Brick & Bourbon.
Photo courtesy of Photo Credit: Click Tahoe courtesy of Visit Truckee-Tahoe
No. 8: Truckee, California
A favorite of skiers, this Tahoe-adjacent town also offers plenty for tourists with a discerning palate (especially for a little apres-ski). 10Best expert Kyle McCarthy states that the town features plenty of “farm-to-table California cuisine.” Among the local favorites are Pianeta, Moody’s Bistro Bar and Beats, Fuddhism, and Donner Creek Brewing.
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No. 7: Ashland, Oregon
This Pacific Northwest town known for its world-famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival is also a hit with food lovers from all over. Fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, coffee and more can all be found at one of the several markets put on by Rogue Valley Growers and Crafters at various times of the year. As for restaurants, Taj Indian Cuisine, Nama (for izakaya and omakase), and Morning Glory Cafe are all the talk of the town.
Photo courtesy of Brittney Eisele
No. 6: Newberg, Oregon
Located in Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine country, Newberg is home to vintners who craft complex pinots and creative chefs who use the region’s bounty to develop innovative menus. The result is a broad range of dining choices with locally sourced ingredients, including restaurants like SubTerra and Jory.
Photo courtesy of Chris Zebo / Travel Texas
No. 5: Fredericksburg, Texas
Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country and one of the South's top wine regions, Fredericksburg enjoys a stellar dining scene for a town of its size. Besides area wineries, the town is home to more than 70 restaurants and bakeries, including Otto’s German Bistro.
Photo courtesy of TRAVERSE CITY TOURISM
No. 4: Traverse City, Michigan
Known first and foremost for its beautiful freshwater beaches, Traverse City on the shores of Lake Michigan enjoys a buzzing food scene. Morel mushrooms grow in the area woods, and local chefs pair them with everything from local fish to farm-fresh eggs. Top dining options include Trattoria Stella by James Beard semifinalist Myles Anton, Filling Station Microbrewery and the Cordwood food truck.
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No. 3: Ayer, Massachusetts
“This central Massachusetts town offers up a diverse array of dining options, including Korean and Japanese restaurants,” says 10Best expert Chez Chesak, who knows Ayer as his own hometown. Among the top-rated restaurants in the area are Lucia’s Tavola (a great date spot serving up Italian-American favorites), Woo Jung (featuring a large menu of traditional Korean dishes) and the no-frills but always-delicious Ruby Donut.
Photo courtesy of Visit Abingdon
No. 2: Abingdon, Virginia
This walkable town in the Virginia Highlands has always had a lively food scene, and it just keeps getting better! Classics like the Tavern, 128 Pecan, Rain and Bone Fire Smokehouse, and offerings from Foresta and Real Good offer great variety and top quality. Don't miss Anthony's Desserts or Mamma Mia's, either!
Photo courtesy of Greenbrier County CVB
No. 1: Lewisburg, West Virginia
There’s a lot to eat in downtown Lewisburg at morning, noon and night. Grab a sweet treat from Amy’s Market, pick up some baked goods, soups or salads from Corn + Flour, tuck into a steak at Food & Friends or enjoy brick oven pizza in a relaxed atmosphere at Hill and Holler.
