Some people travel just to eat at specific restaurants. I cannot make fun of these people, because I am one of them. And for many, certain cities have iconic restaurants that can’t be missed.
But … maybe they can. A lot of the time, it’s simply not worth the hassle or the price. If you’re looking to save some money, time, and sanity, consider swapping out some of these iconic restaurants for these dark horse options.
Instead of Peter Luger…
Brooklyn, New York
There are few steakhouses in America more famous than Luger, but with reservations that are notoriously difficult to snag and steaks that start at over $100, is it really worth it? Oh, and they won’t take credit cards.
Go to St. Anselm
Brooklyn, New York
Things are much more reasonable on your wallet at St. Anselm, a Brooklyn steak spot boasting classics like strip steaks and ribeyes, as well as not-so-classics like pork porterhouses. You’ll remember this meal far better.
Instead of Joe’s Stone Crab…
Miami
Joe’s has been around since 1913, so it’s definitely an institution. No doubt about that. It’s also $135 for a large order of stone crabs. Worth it? We’re not sure.
Go to La Camaronera Seafood Joint and Fish Market
Miami
Having been around for 50 years, La Camaronera Seafood Joint and Fish Market is famous in its own right. The good news is that it doesn’t get the crowds that Joe’s gets, and it’s got that Latin-leaning menu that showcases what eating in Miami is all about.
Instead of The French Laundry…
Yountville, California
Let’s put it this way: You’ll never get in.
OK, let’s say you got in. Let’s put it another way: You’re broke after this meal. It starts at about $350 a person, and that’s before you get fancy with it.
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Go to Entrecot
Napa, California
Argentinian fare is the star of the show at Entrecot, where you can nab an expertly grilled and seasoned steak for around $30. Plus, you’ve got all the Argentinian salads and sides you could dream of. Even Thomas Keller isn’t cooking flavors like these.
Instead of The Bluebird Cafe…
Nashville, Tennessee
The infamous Nashville cafe has launched the careers of more stars than you can count, but let’s be real; It’s a music venue. If you’re expecting fine food, go elsewhere. It’s like eating at a comedy club. There are better chicken tenders out there, you know?
Go to Rolf & Daughters
Nashville, Tennessee
Why not zag completely? Hit Rolf and Daughters, where chef Philip Krajeck is cooking creative, Italian-ish, Southern-ish fare. You’ve got my personal recommendation on this one: My experience there was one of the best meals I’ve had in years. They did a damn hamachi collar like a barbecue rib. Bless that place.
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Instead of Voodoo Donuts…
Portland, Oregon
Everybody has seen and tasted trendy donuts at this point. Voodoo did something special by launching donuts into the culinary scene in a more serious way, but at this point, a visit means long lines and big prices.
Go to Any Independent Donut Shop in Portland
Portland, Oregon
There are tons of them.
Instead of the LAX In-N-Out…
Westchester, California
It’s a scene, really. Everybody coming and going needs either their first or last taste of that sweet nectar, and it’s always a nightmare. For a chain that already has an issue with long lines, this doesn’t help much.
Go to the Glendale In-N-Out
Glendale, California
On Harvey. It’s usually pretty chill.
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