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Summer road trips are on the horizon, but fast food and bagged sandwiches might get old.
Yelp identified the best road-trip food stop in every state based on customer reviews.
It found restaurants with a large concentration of reviews mentioning "road trip" then ranked them on factors including ratings.
Road-trip season is in full swing, and Yelp tracked down the best road-trip food stops to satisfy your travel cravings.
Yelp identified the best road-trip food stop in every state based on customer reviews and volume of ratings. All restaurants were open and had a passing health score as of May 3, 2023.
From mouthwatering barbecue to tasty Thai food, here are the best places to grab a bite during a long day of travel.
ALABAMA: Mary's Southern Cooking in Mobile
Mary's Southern Cooking.
Michael B./Yelp
"We were on a road trip and happened to come across this place since it has some good reviews. It's a small place serving food in a buffet style. The chicken was tasty and very tender... The pork chop was very flavorous and tender as well. The only drawback would be that the restaurant is so generous that we couldn't finish the whole box of food. Glad that we stopped by at this place for some southern dishes," wrote Yelp user Kyle C.
"Very popular and busy location. Good pizza and they offer a ton of interesting options. We ordered a couple of large pizzas and used them for road trip snacks as we toured the peninsula. When you visit Anchorage, do yourself a favor and stop in to get a pizza or three," wrote Yelp user Jeremy N.
"I got lucky enough to make a pit stop here on my road trip to Arizona and will be telling the world about this place! They have super friendly and helpful staff, the space is beautiful and inviting, and it seemed like every item on the menu was unique and tasty. Everything I ate was SO good if I had more time I'd go back in and order it again. I really enjoyed that you pour coffee into mugs that they've collected over time as well. Five stars, will recommend it to all others. Eat here," wrote Yelp user James E.
"The garlic burger was incredible and the wings were top-notch. The tater tots were a dream... this is roadside diner food at its best," wrote Yelp user ZumaJay Z.
"We were directed here for some last-minute lunch munchies before flying back home to the sunshine state after a road trip where we started in Denver, followed by Yellowstone then Grand Junction as our last destination. Wanting to end the trip with a 'foodie bang,' selecting this restaurant was a perfect choice," wrote Yelp user Christi S.
"What a wonderful respite from our I-95 road trip. Well-made and fresh food, very friendly service, and clean facilities. A surprisingly peaceful environment for being right off the highway. And my wife and I loved looking through the stacks of books and puzzles as we waited for our to-go order. See you again on our next trip," wrote Yelp user Paul S.
"I am so thankful that we discovered this place! I am on a road trip with my husband and brother and we were just passing through the area and were looking for a bite to eat. Everything we ate was amazing. Among us, we ordered the lobster crab cake, the meatloaf sandwich, the chicken entree (it had a weird name), and the blackberry cider. All of the meals were absolutely phenomenal... every last bite was eaten," wrote Yelp user Kaela M.
"A gem of a find! Very convenient stop for a long drive. The food was authentic & staff was friendly. I just marked it on my map for the next road trip," wrote Yelp user Brittney F.
"Quite possibly the very best coffee I've had!! The girl at the counter was so nice and recommended iced bourbon caramel espresso. So good that I wish I had bought a few more for my 8+ hours remaining on Florida road trip," wrote Yelp user Kirsten S.
"The place is amazing with breathtaking views of the ocean when sitting outside. Inside you are still able to see behind the glass window into the kitchen where they are proud to show you how [their doughnuts are] made. The bonus is that they appear to be constantly making them as they are always busy," wrote Yelp user Eric R.
IDAHO: Scooter's Chillin'-N-Grillin' in Twin Falls
Scooter's Chillin'-N-Grillin'.
Tommy J./Yelp
"This is our favorite stop in Twin Falls. Just traveling through on our road trip, but love the vibe in this place! They're known for their smoked brisket, it didn't disappoint. The brisket tacos were the best! Hubby had the brisket sandwich and garlic fries and were delicious. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and easy to talk to," wrote Yelp user Jolene W.
"We have never been through Effingham before, but we will be making this a regular stop on our road trips. This place did not disappoint. We sat outside and had the pleasure of chatting with Samuel, our server. The ambiance, food, drinks, setting, and service were a delightful and most welcome surprise! Our puppy was also warmly greeted which was sweet since he loves all people. Although they did not have the sticky toffee pudding (apparently it's a seasonal item), their strawberry rhubarb trifle was AMAZING! We both had their grilled salmon for dinner (yum!). We love farm-to-table restaurants and look forward to eating here on our next road trip," wrote Yelp user Catherine C.
"We took a road trip with friends specifically to have lunch based on the Visit Indiana article. We all were not disappointed. The fish & chips were great - just like what we ate in York, England! The sticky toffee pudding is to die for - Wow!! We highly recommend a visit to Payne's," wrote Yelp user David C.
"Their burgers are awesome, and an order of fries is huge! As we are originally from Utah, seeing they had 'fry sauce' was an extra bonus. Their cereal shakes are also fun. We would definitely stop here again on our yearly road trips, just for fun," wrote Yelp user Joni C.
"Oh my god. Saying this was the best barbecue I've ever had would be an understatement. I am the [pickiest] eater on the planet and one of my friends brought me here during a road trip because she wanted to eat it. I was hesitant. I have never liked barbecue sauce, in fact, I avoid all sauces and condiments like the PLAGUE. But this place had me slathering my sandwich with barbecue sauce and licking my fingers when I was done. I've been craving it ever since and I'm saddened that I don't live closer," wrote Yelp user Janie S.
"We loved their hot chicken sandwich. It was crunchy and spicy, not too greasy, well priced and if we weren't on a road trip we would have gotten one of the many beers they had on tap. It's counter service which I like for lunch on a road trip," wrote Yelp user Dna B.
"Holy moly! How did we get lucky enough to stumble into this place?! The food here is so good, we started planning future road trips through Louisiana. The food was all delicious, flavorful, and completely satisfying! I got the beans and sausage, greens, and mac and cheese. Once we started eating, we realized we must be at somebody's granny's house," wrote Yelp user Mary Beth C.
"The absolute best lobster roll we have ever tried! We stopped here while doing a road trip through Maine and someone had recommended this place along the way. We didn't think it looked that special or any different from the other 1,000 places that advertise their lobster rolls, but boy were we mistaken," wrote Yelp user Jessica K.
"Would never have found this place without Yelp. So thank you Yelp. They will do take out so I was able to order it as we are traveling on our way home from a long road trip. Excellent food without any wait time was a wonderful way to have our supper. Crab cakes were incredible as was the very interesting mozzarella salad. I was impressed with the friendly waiter service in a restaurant that was full to capacity. We will be back," wrote Yelp user Julianna M.
"We just stopped here on our road trip and had to write a review right away. The brisket burrito was smoky and delicious. The [Buffalo] fried chicken sandwich was delicately breaded, juicy, and moist. Pick-up was very organized and timely," wrote Yelp user Tess L.
"Hard to believe such a place exists in small-town Michigan after struggling to find healthy, fresh, and quality food choices on a road trip through rural Michigan. Friendly service, great coffee, diverse menu, fresh, healthy, and vegetarian friendly. Thumbs up, five stars, highly recommended," wrote Yelp user Camille M.
"We stopped while road tripping to Wisconsin Dells and were greatly surprised! Expecting fast-food type Mexican due to the location and were so happy to discover otherwise! The burritos were hot fresh and delicious, the al pastor was excellent and the service great! Will definitely be stopping again," wrote Yelp user Carrie F.
"We were so happy to stumble upon this place on our road trip to NOLA thanks to my trusty Yelp! We stopped here on a Thursday for lunch with our toddler. The girl at the register welcomed us for our first time and told us what their most popular dishes were... Our food came fairly quickly and the portions were huge! I didn't expect 'chicken fries' to be a glorious sloppy mess of BBQ chicken, beans, sauce, sour cream, and jalapeños. It was AMAZING! It was the best road trip stop we made all day! Definitely going to stop here on our way to NOLA every year," wrote Yelp user Haley S.
"The best BBQ I've had. Our road trips following the Florida Gators have taken us all over the south and beyond. Had the 'que in Memphis, Birmingham, Lexington, Nashville, Knoxville, Atlanta and beyond. Pappys is the best," wrote Yelp user Craig J.
"Super delicious great little spot to stop. I was on a road trip and needed to grab a bite and let my baby out of the car seat. We sat on the patio and had a lovely coffee and lunch. Will definitely stop in again next time I drive through Butte," wrote Yelp user Sara H.
"We stopped at the Open Range Grill on our drive from Denver, CO to Wisconsin, and were so happy that we did! This is a great, family-friendly spot with delicious, fresh food," wrote Yelp user Clare C.
"My friends and I were on a road trip to Wisconsin so we randomly stumbled upon this cute little place. It was by far some of the best Mediterranean food I have ever had. Come and try it out, you won't be disappointed," wrote Yelp user Emilee K.
"Came here for brunch on our road trip! Really good diner food! The place is a little small though. We didn't have to wait long. We sat at the counter. The French onion soup was good. It was on the sweeter side, but that works for me. The scallop omelet was good! Definitely would recommend this place," wrote Yelp user Tina L.
"We were on a road trip and stopped by this place and it was a great spot. The place was packed but they got us seated pretty fast. There's a lot to cover on the menu from burgers and steaks to seafood [...] give this place a try you won't be disappointed," wrote Yelp user Trisha M.
NEW MEXICO: Chico's Tortas y Piñas Lokas in Santa Rosa
Chico's Tortas y Piñas Lokas.
Rok J./Yelp
"We found this while on a road trip and were blown away by the quality of the food. Their take on a Cubano is worth the stop. Excellent shrimp taco and quesadillas too! The atmosphere is also great with excellent decor and many items for sale," wrote Yelp user Amanda T.
"Was looking for a spot to eat on our East Coast road trip. Stumble on this excellent BBQ place after hours of driving. Their BBQ was spot on, especially the pull pork and ribs. The biggest surprise was their fried catfish. It was one of the best fried catfish we've had in a long long time. Would have never thought we would find such a great dish in a BBQ restaurant," wrote Yelp user Raymond W.
NORTH CAROLINA: The Prime Smokehouse in Rocky Mount
The Prime Smokehouse.
Patty R./Yelp
"Stopped toward the end of a long road trip. Absolutely fabulous smokehouse. Had the brisket, ribs, and chicken, which came with a side of cornbread. Everything we had was fabulous and full of flavor," wrote Yelp user Kevin S.
NORTH DAKOTA: Fireflour Pizza + Coffee Bar in Bismarck
Fireflour Pizza + Coffee Bar.
Rhondel W./Yelp
"Stopped for a road trip lunch on our way through North Dakota. The staff was awesome, restaurant/bathroom was clean. The pizzaiola was skilled at her craft. The pizzas were thin, perfectly browned, with a beautiful crust. Topping to pizza ratio was perfection," wrote Yelp user Kiki C.
"I visited Lucky's while on a road trip to see the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with my dad and my brother. I scoped out the place because I saw it on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives and it looked like my cup of tea... I love how local the food is, and the quality shows! I had the Canoewreck. Curried tofu, hashbrowns, lots of veggies, toast, and fruit. It was so delicious! The dudes were happy with what they ordered as well. I'm sad I don't live near Cleveland because I'd eat here every day," wrote Yelp user Amanda A.
"Stopped here on a road trip to Phoenix, and the food was so good, we made a point of stopping again on the way back through. Our favorite was the ultimate in comfort food, the Mashed Potato Bowl. We also enjoyed the Mac + Greens bowl, and the CBD soda was refreshing. On our second visit, I went to pick up our order and noticed a fully stocked display case of sweet goodies, so ended up spending nearly as much again on those as for the original order. Worth it," wrote Yelp user Madeleine W.
"My husband and I enjoy visiting Cottage Grove on our yearly road trip to Oregon. We stopped at Jack Sprats two years ago and had a great experience, so decided to stop in again. My husband ordered the fish and chips and I ordered the Cuban sandwich. It did take a while for our food to come out this time, but we figured they had to wait for the oil to heat up as we came early for lunch, just as they were converting the kitchen over from breakfast. The potato salad was a good choice. My iced tea was really delicious. The portions were, once again, extremely generous. We ended up splitting the fish and chips and took the Cuban home for another meal. The menu is varied, and there are some gluten-free options, including some yummy homemade cookies. This place is definitely worth a stop," wrote Yelp user Shelly S.
"A great pit stop for delicious lunch on a long road trip from Philadelphia! We ordered the chicken tacos Mexicanos and the chorizo plate. The chicken tacos were amazing with the perfect amount of spice and fresh flavors. The chorizo was pretty good as well and a great [complement] to the tacos. The horchata was also very tasty, with a little more vanilla flavor than we are used to, but nonetheless worth the money! Also, the refreshing milky drink helped cut some of the spice. Overall would recommend it for hungry travelers traveling up route 80," wrote Yelp user Mike N.
RHODE ISLAND: Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant in Newport
Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant.
Chanel H./Yelp
"Came into town and we were in a bind to get a good meal on a very long road trip. We were not at all disappointed with the meal. The staff was excellent and the food was also great! And so clean! Absolutely a great meal," wrote Yelp user Caroline D.
"What a fun find! Friendly place with a great pimento cheese sandwich. Squash fritters were delish! Only a little off of the highway and a nice diversion on a long 95 road trip," wrote Yelp user Julie T.
"Just found this place on Yelp during our drive through SD to NE. Given the excellent ratings, we had to give it a try! As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by the friendly staff. They recommended a few items to us but said that given how fresh the beef was, we should go for the bacon cheeseburger. That is exactly what I did and could not have been happier with my choice! The beef tasted so fresh and juicy, the bun was toasted and crispy, and the veggies (lettuce, tomato, pickles) added a bit of freshness to it. Food is affordable. 100% recommend checking this place out if you're in the area/near the Badlands," wrote Yelp user Kaitlynn M.
"Best food in Nashville! We ordered ahead via Yelp app as we were driving into Nashville on our road trip, we got to go right in and bypass the huge line outside to pick up our order! The East Nasty and Princess Buscuit Sandwiches were to die for!! Recommend 100%!! Along with the Bonuts," wrote Yelp user Molly E.
"My husband and I stopped in here on a whim on our cross country road trip to California. We were tired and hungry, and as soon as we walked in we were immediately salivating at the mouth. This place smells seriously amazing, so we had high expectations for the food. We were absolutely not disappointed... Upon recommendation from the owner, I got the brisket sandwich with a side of the jalapeño cream corn. I could honestly eat a bucket of that stuff, it's that good. My husband got the pulled pork sandwich with the potato salad and it was gone before I could blink, so needless to say his was great too! The food, service, and hospitality are all top-notch," wrote Yelp user Kaelee J.
"We were driving through town on a road trip and sick of diner and fast food. We found this place on yelp and I thought, If it's half as good as the reviews I will be shocked. Started with the meatballs and garlic bread, followed by the Brooklyn pepperoni pizza, and finished with the Nutella-baked pizza with whip cream! The food quality was excellent inline with what you would expect at a high-quality metropolitan Italian restaurant," wrote Yelp user Judi M.
"Was looking for some good BBQ while on a road trip through VT. Pro Pig did not disappoint. The Smoked Wings were some of the best I have ever had, even the pickled carrots served with them were great. The Chopped Whole Hog Sandwich was excellent. Others in my party were very pleased with the Brisket Sandwich and Sweet Tea Half Chicken. Next trip to Stowe, we will definitely be back," wrote Yelp user John D.
"This diner was delightful. Such a pleasant surprise for me, my husband, and our kids ages 8 and 10 while traveling from DC. I am not usually a diner fan but Angelle's is not your average diner. It was nice and clean and lives up to its many good reviews," wrote Yelp user Amy B.
"My friend and I are on a road trip from MN to OR and picked Frank's on the name alone. We had no idea that there was so much history behind the restaurant! The staff, so thoughtful, the atmosphere kept us wanting to know more and the food was more than amazing," wrote Yelp user Kim E.
WISCONSIN: Baumgartner's Cheese Store & Tavern in Monroe
Baumgartner's Cheese Store & Tavern.
Krishna C./Yelp
"This restaurant was the highlight of our Wisconsin road trip. I loved the place. It has such nostalgia to it. The food was freshly prepared. You could tell because it melted in our mouths! The desserts were amazing. Cheese as a topping was unique. I loved it," wrote Yelp user Krishna C.
"Some friends and I were road-tripping through Wyoming to Colorado and needed a place to stop for dinner. This place was one of the top-rated places and we all like Thai food so we thought 'what the heck.' We all wish we had this place back in Provo cause we would definitely stop again. The service was quick and helpful but also very personable. It was a great experience, and we didn't have to wait long for our food either! 10 out of 10 would recommend," wrote Yelp user Logan B.
