Guy Fieri, the spiky-haired host of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” has spent years cruising across America in his iconic red Camaro, hunting down the most unforgettable meals the country has to offer. From hole-in-the-wall burger joints to award-winning barbecue pits, his picks span every corner of the U.S.
Whether you’re a foodie planning a road trip or just someone who loves a great meal, this list is your ultimate guide. Get ready to discover some seriously delicious spots that Guy himself has stamped with his seal of approval.
1. Russian River Pub (Forestville, CA)
Guy Fieri calls Russian River Pub his favorite hang-out, and one bite of their signature beef tri-tip sandwich explains exactly why. Piled high with caramelized onions and crumbled blue cheese, it’s the kind of sandwich that makes you close your eyes and just savor the moment.
The pot roast here is equally legendary. Nestled in the heart of Forestville, California, this laid-back pub delivers bold, comforting flavors that feel like a warm hug on a cold day.
2. Jitlada (Los Angeles, CA)
Jitlada in Los Angeles is not your average Thai restaurant. Guy Fieri praised its green curry and tom yum soup, and the Michelin Guide eventually agreed, awarding the spot a coveted mention that put it on the global food map.
Featured on multiple Food Network shows, Jitlada keeps drawing crowds with its bold, authentic Thai flavors. The fiery, aromatic dishes here are crafted with serious skill, making every visit feel like a culinary adventure worth repeating.
3. 11th Street Diner (Miami Beach, FL)
A South Beach institution since 1992, the 11th Street Diner has fed locals and tourists alike with generous, soul-satisfying plates. Guy Fieri sampled their pork chops with apples and raisins and declared it one of the greatest pork chop dishes he’d ever encountered on the show.
The diner’s vintage railroad car setting adds a charming, nostalgic vibe. Great food, great atmosphere, and a history that runs deep make this Miami Beach gem well worth a visit.
4. Sonny’s Famous Steak Hogies (Hollywood, FL)
Serving massive sandwiches on homemade bread since 1958, Sonny’s Famous Steak Hogies in Hollywood, Florida is a true old-school treasure. Guy Fieri was particularly wowed by the meatball hoagie, featuring football-shaped meatballs bathed in rich, homemade tomato sauce.
Everything here is made with care and tradition, which you can taste in every single bite. If you appreciate a sandwich that’s built with genuine craftsmanship and doesn’t hold back on flavor, Sonny’s belongs on your bucket list.
5. Mrs. Potato (Orlando, FL)
Mrs. Potato in Orlando is a fusion spot that blends Brazilian flavors with an American twist, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. Guy Fieri was blown away by the scratch-made dishes, particularly the Carne Seca Rosti, a crispy, savory creation that showcases the kitchen’s creativity.
Every dish here tells a story rooted in Brazilian culinary tradition with a fun, modern spin. It’s the kind of restaurant that surprises you in the best possible way, no matter what you order.
6. Se7enBites (Orlando, FL)
Se7enBites in Orlando is the kind of bakery and eatery that makes breakfast feel like a special occasion every single day. Guy Fieri called the Vanilla Bean Bourbon Bacon Moon Pie “legit,” which is pretty much the highest praise in his vocabulary.
Beyond the sweets, the chicken pot pie here is hearty, flavorful, and absolutely comforting. Whether you stop in for something sweet or savory, Se7enBites delivers with homemade goodness that keeps regulars coming back week after week.
7. La Camaronera Seafood Joint and Fish Market (Miami, FL)
For over 40 years, La Camaronera in Miami has been a family-run gem serving Cuban-inspired seafood that locals absolutely adore. Guy Fieri fell hard for the OG Minuta Sandwich, a crispy fried fish sandwich with deep Cuban roots and incredible flavor.
The fish market attached to the restaurant means the seafood here is as fresh as it gets. There’s a no-frills, authentic energy to this place that makes every meal feel honest, satisfying, and deeply connected to Miami’s rich culinary heritage.
8. Kuma’s Corner (Chicago, IL)
Walk into Kuma’s Corner in Chicago and you’ll immediately feel the heavy metal energy pulsing through the room. Guy Fieri crowned their Black Sabbath burger as one of the top five burgers he tried across all his years on Triple D, and that’s saying something.
The burgers here are colossal, creative, and unapologetically bold. Each one is named after a heavy metal band, making the menu as entertaining to read as the food is to eat.
Kuma’s is a true Chicago original.
9. Irazu (Chicago, IL)
Irazu is Chicago’s beloved family-owned restaurant bringing authentic Costa Rican cuisine to the Midwest, and Guy Fieri was genuinely impressed. The chicharrones were crispy and flavorful, and the spicy chili pepper wontons added an unexpected, exciting kick to the meal.
Finding a restaurant this committed to authentic Central American flavors in the heart of Chicago is a real treat. Irazu’s warm, family atmosphere and scratch-made dishes create an experience that feels both homey and adventurous, a rare and wonderful combination.
10. La Scarola (Chicago, IL)
La Scarola holds a very special place in Guy Fieri’s heart, earning a spot on his personal list of top five restaurants in the entire United States. That kind of recognition from someone who has eaten at thousands of restaurants across the country means everything.
This Chicago Italian institution serves hearty, classic dishes made with love and serious culinary expertise. The warm, intimate atmosphere and deeply satisfying food make La Scarola the kind of place you want to return to again and again.
11. Blue Koi Noodles & Dumplings (Kansas City, MO)
Blue Koi Noodles and Dumplings in Kansas City, Missouri serves up Asian-inspired dishes that Guy Fieri couldn’t stop talking about. He praised the spicy Fire Bird noodles for their perfectly al dente texture and bold, fiery flavor that hits all the right notes.
The Spicy Chili Pepper Wontons are another standout, packed with heat and savory depth. Blue Koi proves that Kansas City’s food scene goes far beyond barbecue, offering vibrant, globally inspired flavors that excite and satisfy in equal measure.
12. Broadway Diner (Baltimore, MD)
Broadway Diner in Baltimore is the kind of place where giant portions and genuine hospitality go hand in hand. Guy Fieri dubbed their potato-crusted salmon “one of the coolest things he’d ever seen on the show,” which instantly made it a must-order for every visitor.
Beyond the showstopping salmon, the diner’s all-American comfort food lineup keeps regulars loyal for years. Big flavors, big portions, and a big heart make Broadway Diner a true Baltimore institution worth celebrating.
13. Johnny Rad’s Pizzeria Tavern (Baltimore, MD)
Johnny Rad’s Pizzeria Tavern in Baltimore brings an infectious energy to the pizza game with its punk rock-themed pies and welcoming, informal vibe. It’s the kind of spot where you walk in feeling like a regular even on your very first visit.
Affordably priced and packed with creative options, including impressive vegan choices, Johnny Rad’s serves up pizza that’s as fun as it is delicious. The lively atmosphere and bold flavors make this Baltimore gem a seriously enjoyable dining experience from start to finish.
14. The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint (Ocean Springs, MS)
The Shed Barbeque and Blues Joint in Ocean Springs, Mississippi is a multi-award-winning barbecue destination with serious soul. Guy Fieri praised the baby back ribs for their impeccable tenderness, the kind that falls cleanly off the bone with just the right amount of smoky bark on the outside.
Live blues music often fills the air, making meals here a full sensory experience. Great barbecue paired with great music in a rustic, welcoming setting makes The Shed one of the South’s most beloved spots.
15. Storm Castle Cafe (Bozeman, MT)
Storm Castle Cafe in Bozeman, Montana takes farm-to-table cooking seriously, and the results speak for themselves. Guy Fieri called their Monte Cristo sandwich a “destination dish,” meaning it’s literally worth planning a trip around, and that’s not something he says lightly.
Fresh, locally sourced ingredients shine through in every dish on the menu. The combination of mighty portions and clean, vibrant flavors gives Storm Castle Cafe a reputation that extends well beyond Bozeman, drawing food lovers from across the state.
16. Roost Fried Chicken (Bozeman, MT)
Roost Fried Chicken in Bozeman, Montana is doing something seriously special with fried chicken, and Guy Fieri confirmed it by calling their food “legit.” High praise from a man who has sampled fried chicken at hundreds of stops across the country.
The Alabama Chicken Sandwich stood out in particular, combining crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken with bold, satisfying toppings. Roost proves that Montana’s food scene is thriving and that great fried chicken doesn’t belong exclusively to the South.
17. Red Arrow Diner (Manchester, NH)
Red Arrow Diner in Manchester, New Hampshire runs 24 hours a day, which means great food is always just around the corner no matter when hunger strikes. Guy Fieri encountered American Chop Suey here for the first time, a hearty New England staple made with elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, hamburger, onions, and peppers.
The discovery delighted him, and it’s easy to see why. Red Arrow Diner captures the essence of classic American diner culture with generous portions and honest, comforting food.
18. John’s of 12th Street (New York City, NY)
Open for over a century, John’s of 12th Street in New York City carries a weight of culinary history that you can feel the moment you walk through the door. Guy Fieri was blown away by the all-veal meatballs and the homemade pappardelle with Tuscan ragu, calling them exceptional.
A restaurant that has survived and thrived for 100-plus years in New York City is doing something very right. Classic Italian cooking executed with deep skill and tradition makes John’s an absolute must-visit for any pasta lover.
19. Lake Effect Diner (Buffalo, NY)
Lake Effect Diner in Buffalo, New York operates out of a genuine 1952 vintage dining car, which alone makes it worth the visit. The diner has appeared twice on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, earning praise for its “scratch cooking gone wild” philosophy that turns simple ingredients into memorable meals.
Buffalo’s food scene is often underrated, but Lake Effect Diner makes a compelling case for the city’s culinary creativity. Every dish here is made with care, personality, and a deep respect for classic diner traditions.
20. South 21 Drive In (Charlotte, NC)
Since 1955, South 21 Drive In has been a Charlotte, North Carolina landmark serving comfort food with a nostalgic flair that never gets old. The Super Boy Burger, hot dogs, and crispy onion rings are the stars of the show, drawing loyal fans who have been coming here for generations.
The family-owned atmosphere adds genuine warmth to every visit. Few dining experiences capture the spirit of classic American roadside culture quite as authentically as South 21, where the food and the memories are both equally satisfying.
21. Roberto’s Taco Shop (Las Vegas, NV)
Roberto’s Taco Shop in Las Vegas is Guy Fieri’s personal go-to for carne asada burritos, and when someone who eats for a living has a regular spot, you know it’s the real deal. The Mexican food here is deeply satisfying without any unnecessary frills or pretension.
Stuffed with tender, well-seasoned carne asada, the burritos here hit every flavor note perfectly. In a city full of over-the-top dining experiences, Roberto’s stands out by simply doing classic Mexican street food better than almost anyone else in town.
22. Katalina’s (Columbus, OH)
Katalina’s in Columbus, Ohio has turned brunch into an art form, and their made-to-order pancake balls are the masterpiece. Available in Nutella, pumpkin-apple butter, and dulce de leche flavors, these little spheres of joy are unlike anything you’ve likely tasted at a standard breakfast spot.
Guy Fieri featured this Columbus gem on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, introducing pancake ball fans to a whole new level of brunch creativity. Katalina’s is the kind of place that makes you genuinely excited to wake up early on a weekend morning.
23. Olneyville N.Y. System (Providence, RI)
Olneyville N.Y. System in Providence, Rhode Island holds a place on Guy Fieri’s personal top five restaurants in the entire United States, which is extraordinary recognition for a spot most people outside New England might not know.
The Rhode Island-style hot wieners served here are a regional treasure with a devoted following.
Topped with a unique meat sauce, mustard, onions, and celery salt, these wieners deliver a flavor combination that’s completely their own. Olneyville proves that regional American food culture is endlessly fascinating.
24. The Beacon Drive-In (Spartanburg, SC)
The Beacon Drive-In in Spartanburg, South Carolina is a Southern institution with decades of loyal fans and a chili cheeseburger that keeps them coming back. The combination of a juicy beef patty, rich chili, and melted cheese creates a flavor-packed experience that’s pure American comfort food at its finest.
The Beacon’s old-school drive-in atmosphere adds a layer of charm that modern fast-food chains simply can’t replicate. Visiting here feels like stepping back in time while biting into something timeless and deeply satisfying.
25. The Glass Onion (Charleston, SC)
The Glass Onion in Charleston, South Carolina is a farm-to-table restaurant that takes the concept seriously, changing its menu daily to reflect the freshest locally sourced ingredients available. Guy Fieri sampled the smoked pork loin po’boy and chicken legs, both of which showcased the kitchen’s commitment to honest, scratch-made cooking.
Charleston’s food scene is one of America’s most celebrated, and The Glass Onion fits right in with its thoughtful approach to Southern cuisine. Every visit here offers something slightly new and always delicious.
26. Leonard’s Pit Barbecue (Memphis, TN)
Nearly a century old, Leonard’s Pit Barbecue in Memphis, Tennessee is a living piece of American barbecue history. Their chopped pork sandwich, served with sweet mustard coleslaw, represents everything that makes Memphis-style barbecue so deeply beloved across the country.
The flavors here are the result of generations of knowledge passed down through time-tested recipes and techniques. If you’re visiting Memphis and skipping Leonard’s, you’re missing one of the most authentic barbecue experiences the city has to offer.
This place is the real deal.
27. Uncle Lou’s Fried Chicken (Memphis, TN)
Guy Fieri has been raving about Uncle Lou’s Fried Chicken in Memphis, Tennessee since his very first visit back in 2008, and his enthusiasm helped this beloved spot flourish and grow its already loyal fanbase. The saucy Buffalo wings and buttery biscuits are the dishes that keep devoted fans traveling from far and wide.
There’s a joyful, soulful energy at Uncle Lou’s that matches the food perfectly. This is fried chicken cooked with pride, served with heart, and enjoyed with genuine happiness.
28. Tom’s Barbecue (Memphis, TN)
Tom’s Barbecue has been a Memphis staple for over half a century, and Guy Fieri praised it as a place that truly embodies the spirit of great barbecue. The rib tips here are irresistible, with melt-in-your-mouth meat and an undeniable smoky depth of flavor that tells you this kitchen knows exactly what it’s doing.
Memphis has no shortage of barbecue options, but Tom’s holds its own with quiet confidence. The consistency and quality here make it a must-visit for anyone serious about exploring authentic Southern barbecue culture.
29. Mas Tacos Por Favor (Nashville, TN)
Mas Tacos Por Favor in Nashville, Tennessee is a taco spot with a personality all its own, drawing praise from Guy Fieri for its creative, flavor-forward menu. The sweet potato quinoa taco is the dish that stands out most, offering a vegetarian option that’s as exciting and satisfying as anything with meat.
Nashville is famous for its hot chicken, but Mas Tacos proves the city’s food scene has much more depth. Creative, fresh, and full of character, this spot is a Nashville favorite that deserves far more national attention.
30. Counter Cafe (Austin, TX)
Counter Cafe in Austin, Texas is the breakfast and brunch destination that Guy Fieri himself said blew him away, particularly because of their homemade curry chicken burger, a dish that nobody expected to find at a breakfast-focused diner. The pancakes, breakfast tacos, and eggs benedict are equally exceptional.
Austin’s food scene is known for being bold and creative, and Counter Cafe fits that spirit perfectly. Whether you visit for a lazy weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, this Austin gem delivers every single time.
31. Prince Lebanese Grill (Arlington, TX)
Prince Lebanese Grill in Arlington, Texas is a Middle Eastern gem that has appeared on multiple Food Network shows, winning fans everywhere it’s been featured. Guy Fieri swears by the crispy falafels, fragrant pilaf rice, and tender Texan beef infused with authentic Lebanese spices, a combination that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
The blend of Texas and Lebanese culinary traditions creates something genuinely unique. This Arlington restaurant proves that great food often comes from unexpected cultural intersections, and the results here are absolutely worth celebrating.
32. Pingala Cafe (Burlington, VT)
Pingala Cafe in Burlington, Vermont is a fully vegan restaurant that converted even the meat-loving Guy Fieri, who called their crunchwrap supreme “outstanding” and ranked it among the top vegetarian and vegan items he had ever tasted on the show. That’s a remarkable endorsement from someone who usually gravitates toward barbecue.
The coconut-banana French Toast Puffs are equally impressive, bringing creative sweetness to the plant-based breakfast game. Pingala Cafe shows that vegan food can be bold, exciting, and absolutely crave-worthy.
33. Bluebird Barbecue (Burlington, VT)
Bluebird Barbecue in Burlington, Vermont took two beloved food traditions and smashed them together in the most delicious way possible. Their barbecue brisket ramen impressed Guy Fieri with its inventive fusion of smoky, slow-cooked brisket and rich, warming ramen broth, creating a dish that’s entirely its own thing.
Vermont might not be the first place that comes to mind for barbecue, but Bluebird is changing that perception one bowl at a time. Creative thinking and quality ingredients make this Burlington spot a genuinely exciting dining destination.
34. Sweet Melissa Vegetarian Cafe (Laramie, WY)
Sweet Melissa Vegetarian Cafe in Laramie, Wyoming specializes in plant-forward versions of beloved comfort food classics, and they do it so well that even Guy Fieri was won over. Their vegetarian meatloaf made with lentils delivers the hearty, satisfying quality of the original without any meat involved.
Finding a dedicated vegetarian cafe in Wyoming, a state famous for ranching and beef, makes Sweet Melissa even more remarkable. This Laramie treasure proves that great food is about creativity and craft, regardless of what ingredients are in the kitchen.
35. Panini Pete’s (Fairhope, AL)
Panini Pete’s in Fairhope, Alabama is a sandwich shop with a serious reputation, earning Guy Fieri’s approval for both its outstanding Italian caprese panini and its homemade beignets that rival anything you’d find in New Orleans. The combination of savory and sweet makes this spot a complete dining experience.
Fairhope is a charming small town on Mobile Bay, and Panini Pete’s fits perfectly into the town’s warm, welcoming character. Creative sandwiches, fresh ingredients, and those irresistible beignets make this Alabama gem absolutely worth seeking out.
36. Pucker Wilson’s (Juneau, AK)
Pucker Wilson’s is a food truck in Juneau, Alaska that punches way above its weight class with mouthwatering burgers and barbecue that caught Guy Fieri’s attention. But the dish that really turned heads was the Cowboy Sundae, a loaded creation of pulled pork piled onto crispy fries with an avalanche of toppings.
A food truck delivering this level of creativity and flavor in Alaska is genuinely impressive. Pucker Wilson’s proves that exceptional food can come from the most unexpected places, even parked on a street in Juneau.
37. In Bocca al Lupo (Juneau, AK)
In Bocca al Lupo in Juneau, Alaska is an Italian restaurant that uses stunning local ingredients to create dishes that are both elegantly crafted and deeply satisfying. Guy Fieri enjoyed the King Crab Pappardelle, a pasta dish that marries fresh Alaskan king crab with handmade noodles in a way that feels genuinely luxurious.
Chef Beau Schooler has earned multiple James Beard Award nominations, a testament to the exceptional quality coming out of this kitchen. Finding this level of Italian culinary artistry in Alaska makes In Bocca al Lupo feel like a wonderful, surprising discovery.
38. Waffles and Whatnot (Anchorage, AK)
Waffles and Whatnot in Anchorage, Alaska is the kind of restaurant that makes you question everything you thought you knew about breakfast. Guy Fieri tried the Confused Cousin, a waffle sandwich loaded with fried chicken, mac and cheese, bacon, and barbecue sauce, calling it a “gigantic juxtaposition of flavors.”
The name perfectly describes the experience: sweet, savory, crispy, and creamy all in one outrageous bite. Anchorage might be far from the Lower 48, but Waffles and Whatnot is absolutely worth the trip for adventurous eaters.
39. Matt’s Big Breakfast (Phoenix, AZ)
Matt’s Big Breakfast in Phoenix, Arizona maintains a beloved old-school diner feel that’s increasingly rare in today’s food landscape. Guy Fieri enjoyed the fluffy Belgian waffles, homemade biscuits and gravy, and spicy huevos rancheros, each one a testament to the kitchen’s commitment to doing breakfast right.
The no-frills atmosphere and quality-driven menu make Matt’s a Phoenix institution with a fiercely loyal following. If you’re starting a day in the Arizona heat, there’s no better way to fuel up than with a big, satisfying breakfast from this classic diner.
40. Bruno’s Little Italy (Little Rock, AR)
Bruno’s Little Italy in Little Rock, Arkansas has been a family institution since 1949, serving Italian-American classics with a warmth and consistency that spans generations. Guy Fieri was genuinely impressed by the Lasagna Imbotito and the handmade toasted ravioli, both of which showcase the kitchen’s deep commitment to authentic Italian cooking.
Decades of experience show in every dish that comes out of this kitchen. Bruno’s is the kind of restaurant that feels like a family gathering every time you visit, whether you’re a regular or a first-timer.
41. The Root Cafe (Little Rock, AR)
The Root Cafe in Little Rock, Arkansas is a farm-to-table spot that Guy Fieri visited and found genuinely exciting. The Pimento Cheeseburger delivers a Southern twist on a classic burger, while the Old World-Style Bratwurst brings hearty, satisfying European flavor to an Arkansas kitchen.
The Root Cafe’s commitment to locally sourced ingredients gives every dish a freshness and integrity that you can actually taste. It’s a community-focused restaurant with real culinary ambition, making it one of Little Rock’s most compelling dining destinations for food-minded travelers.
42. Foolish Craig’s Cafe (Boulder, CO)
Foolish Craig’s Cafe in Boulder, Colorado earned recognition as one of the top Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives spots in the entire state, which is quite an achievement in a city known for its vibrant food culture. The cafe brings a bohemian, creative energy to its menu that perfectly matches Boulder’s laid-back, adventurous spirit.
Creative breakfast and brunch dishes made with quality ingredients have built Foolish Craig’s a devoted local following over the years. Boulder visitors looking for a memorable morning meal have been heading here ever since Guy Fieri put it on the map.
43. Locale BBQ Post (Wilmington, DE)
Locale BBQ Post in Wilmington, Delaware caught Guy Fieri’s attention for its distinctive approach to barbecue, particularly the unique inclusion of pickles served alongside smoked brisket, pork butt, chicken wings, and bratwurst. The tangy crunch of pickles against smoky, tender meat is a pairing that works brilliantly.
While the original location has since closed, a new restaurant called The Post is opening to carry on the tradition. The legacy of Locale BBQ Post lives on as proof that Delaware’s barbecue scene deserves far more recognition than it typically receives.
44. Super Duper Weenie (Fairfield, CT)
Super Duper Weenie in Fairfield, Connecticut has the distinction of being named the best Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives restaurant in all of Connecticut, which makes it an essential stop for any food road tripper passing through New England. The hot dogs here are elevated far beyond what you’d expect from a roadside stand.
Loaded with creative toppings and made with quality ingredients, each dog is a small masterpiece of American comfort food. Super Duper Weenie proves that simple food, done with genuine care and creativity, can be absolutely extraordinary.
45. Grind Burger Kitchen (Louisville, KY)
Grind Burger Kitchen in Louisville, Kentucky is doing burgers with a conscience, using grass-fed beef to create patties that taste better and feel better to eat. Guy Fieri featured both the classic beef burger and the standout veggie burger on Triple D, highlighting the kitchen’s commitment to quality across the entire menu.
Louisville’s food scene is thriving, and Grind fits right into the city’s growing reputation for serious, ingredient-driven cooking. Whether you’re a meat lover or a plant-based eater, Grind Burger Kitchen has something genuinely delicious waiting for you.
46. Becky’s Diner (Portland, ME)
Becky’s Diner in Portland, Maine is a legendary institution that has appeared on multiple Food Network shows, earning a devoted following for its exceptional lobster rolls and fresh seafood platters. Portland is one of America’s great seafood cities, and Becky’s sits at the heart of that tradition.
The diner’s unpretentious, welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite among both locals and visitors. Fresh Maine lobster prepared simply and served generously is a combination that never fails, and Becky’s has been delivering that experience with consistency and pride for decades.
47. Victor’s 1959 Cafe (Minneapolis, MN)
Victor’s 1959 Cafe in Minneapolis, Minnesota serves authentic Cuban cuisine that transported Guy Fieri straight to Havana without leaving the Midwest. The fried plantains are golden and perfectly caramelized, while the classic Cuban sandwiches deliver the pressed, layered perfection that makes this dish so universally beloved.
Finding genuinely authentic Cuban food in Minnesota is a pleasant surprise, and Victor’s has built a loyal following by staying true to traditional recipes and flavors. The cafe’s name honors the year of the Cuban Revolution, giving every meal a sense of cultural history.
48. The Nook (St. Paul, MN)
The Nook in St. Paul, Minnesota has been featured three times on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, including a memorable appearance on Guy Fieri’s “Top 10 Burgers” episode. The restaurant is celebrated for its Juicy Lucy burger, a Minnesota original where the cheese is stuffed inside the patty rather than placed on top.
Biting into a Juicy Lucy for the first time is a revelation: molten cheese erupting from the center of a perfectly cooked beef patty. The Nook has mastered this regional specialty, making it one of Minnesota’s most beloved burger destinations.
49. Dae Gee Korean BBQ (Colorado)
Dae Gee Korean BBQ earned its spot on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in 2015 when Guy Fieri praised its authentic Korean flavors and the interactive, communal experience of cooking marinated meats right at your own table. The banchan side dishes that accompany every meal add layers of flavor and texture to the feast.
Korean barbecue is as much about the experience as the food, and Dae Gee delivers both with enthusiasm. With multiple locations across Colorado, this beloved spot has made authentic Korean dining accessible to a much wider audience.
50. Hankook Taqueria (Atlanta, GA)
Hankook Taqueria in Atlanta, Georgia is a Korean-Mexican fusion restaurant that Guy Fieri adored so much he returned multiple times, which tells you everything you need to know. The kimchi fries, Korean-inspired quesadillas, and crispy chicken Tong Dak each showcase a fearless blending of two beloved culinary traditions.
Atlanta’s food scene is one of the country’s most dynamic, and Hankook fits perfectly into that spirit of bold experimentation. The restaurant proves that culinary fusion, when done thoughtfully and with quality ingredients, creates something that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
51. Marietta Diner (Marietta, GA)
Marietta Diner in Marietta, Georgia is a popular 24-hour, 1950s-style diner that serves all-American classics around the clock to a loyal crowd that simply can’t get enough. The retro atmosphere, complete with chrome fixtures and neon lighting, creates an experience that’s equal parts meal and time travel.
Classic comfort food executed consistently and generously is the Marietta Diner’s greatest strength. Whether you visit at noon or 2 a.m., the kitchen delivers the same satisfying, familiar dishes that have made this Georgia diner a beloved local landmark for years.
52. Jimmy’s Down the Street (Coeur d’Alene, ID)
Jimmy’s Down the Street in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho is the kind of neighborhood gem that Guy Fieri loves most: unpretentious, homestyle, and absolutely delicious. He described the chicken and dumplings as “really righteous” and also fell for the caramel pecan rolls and hearty chicken fried steak skillet.
Coeur d’Alene is a beautiful lakeside city in northern Idaho, and Jimmy’s adds an equally beautiful culinary dimension to the experience of visiting. Honest, scratch-made comfort food delivered with genuine hospitality makes this Idaho spot a true hidden treasure.