You love to eat. You live to eat. Food is your passion. What better way to experience the vibrant culture of America than through a culinary adventure across the country? Pack your bags and your appetite – you’re about to embark on an unforgettable journey of flavors and tastes from coast to coast.
From hearty clam chowders in New England to spicy jambalayas in New Orleans, from fresh caught lobster in Maine to food truck tacos in Austin, your taste buds will be dancing with delight Whether you crave juicy burgers in the Midwest, tangy barbecue ribs in the South or farm-to-table fare on the West Coast, America has a flavor for every mood and moment. Get ready with iVisa for a moveable feast – this is going to be a delicious ride.
The Northeast – Seafood Heaven
The Northeastern United States is a seafood lover’s paradise, especially in New England. This historic region is home to some of the best lobster rolls, clam chowders, and crab cakes around.
Maine Lobster
Maine’s rocky coastline is ideal for lobster fishing, and they’re considered the best in the world. Lobster rolls, lobster bisque, and whole lobsters boiled in seawater are popular ways to enjoy the local catch. Lobster shacks like Red’s Eats in Wiscasset and Eventide Oyster Co. in Portland are casual spots to get your fill.
Clam Chowder
New England clam chowder, made with a creamy base and potatoes, reigns supreme here. Legal Sea Foods and Durgin-Park in Boston have been serving their popular chowder for decades. Or head to Essex, Massachusetts, the “clam shack capital of the world.” and order a bowl at JT Farnham’s or Woodman’s of Essex.
Crab Cakes
Blue crabs are plentiful in the Chesapeake Bay, and Baltimore is known for crab cakes packed with lump crab meat and Old Bay seasoning. Faidley Seafood in Baltimore’s Lexington Market has been a staple since 1886. Or try the jumbo lump crab cakes at Thames Street Oyster House in Fells Point, where the crab is sourced from Virginia and Maryland.
Oysters
Slurp briny oysters at Island Creek Oyster Bar in Boston, where oysters are harvested from Duxbury Bay. Or belly up to the bar at Pearl & Ash in NYC, which offers a variety of East coast oysters including Connecticut Blue Points, Narragansetts from Rhode Island, and Shinnecocks from Long Island.
With its historic ports, fishing villages and seafood shacks, the Northeast serves up an authentic taste of Americana along with the freshest seafood. Bon appetit!
The West Coast – Farm-to-Table Dining and Global Flavors
The West Coast is a food lover’s paradise, with an abundance of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and global flavors. In California, the farm-to-table movement is in full swing. Chefs build their menus around what’s in season from local farms, ranches, and fisheries.
Fresh From the Farm
Head to Napa and Sonoma to sample local wines paired with farm-fresh fare. At The Restaurant at Meadowood, ingredients are sourced within a 150-mile radius. The tasting menu may feature Liberty Farm duck, Tomales Bay oysters, or produce from the restaurant’s three-acre garden.
Further south, Manresa in Los Gatos has earned three Michelin stars thanks to chef David Kinch’s focus on local, organic ingredients and creative techniques. The ever-changing menu highlights what’s fresh and seasonal.
Global Eats
The diversity of California’s population is reflected in its vibrant food scene. In Los Angeles, you’ll find the largest Korean community outside of Asia and the best Korean BBQ this side of Seoul. Don’t miss JBBQ Meat Market and Gardens.
The San Gabriel Valley is a foodie’s paradise for authentic Chinese cuisine. At Tasty Noodle House, hand-pulled noodles and dumplings are made fresh daily. Din Tai Fung is renowned for its Shanghai-style soup dumplings.
Conclusion
With its stunning scenery, ideal climate and cultural diversity, California offers an unparalleled culinary adventure for travelers seeking fresh, sustainable and globally-inspired fare.
