Top Foodie Destinations in The South US

For "foodies" the next meal is much more than an event it is an experience; so much more when on vacation. When foodies plan a vacation they often seek out those destinations that boast the most flavorfully unique ethnic cuisines, the most freshly fried American food, the greatest gourmet fare, and everything in between. For foodies who travel to the South there is no shortage of fine cuisine.

One of the top foodie destinations in the U.S. just so happens to also be located in the South. New Orleans, Louisiana is the only city in the U.S. that boasts its own style of cuisine. Cajun. However, the city abounds with a wide array of dining options ranging from fine French cuisine, to old-fashioned Southern cooking, and some of the best American fare in the nation.

Some of the best chefs in the world call New Orleans home at fine dining establishments including Brennan's, Andrea's, and Broussard's all located in the French Quarter. With a large selection of fine dining available in New Orleans some of the best Cajun food to be found is at the locally owned and operated establishments such as Mena's Palace on Iberville in the heart of the French Quarter. Large fresh portions of local flavor such as red beans and rice, fried crawfish, and étoufféé have made this café a favorite among locals. Mena's is also recommended for an authentic southern style breakfast. The Café du Monde in the French Quarter is world renowned for its beignets and café au Lait and Elizabeth's on Gallier Street is known by locals and visitors as one of the best breakfasts in the city.

Charleston, South Carolina offers some of the most authentic home-style Southern cuisine in the South. Foodies who visit Charleston, South Carolina experience huge helpings of Southern hospitality along with generous servings of She-crab Soup, Fried Green Tomatoes, Ham Biscuits and Benne Wafers, and many more Southern originals. Famous for barbecue and red rice, Charleston also offers a wide range of cuisine that utilizes fresh local ingredients to a unique Southern flavor to traditional gourmet dishes.

Foodies familiar with the Charleston dining scene recommend Magnolia's on East Bay Street for sensational spicy shrimp and sausage grits, and Fig on Meeting Street for their eco-friendly menu that features roast suckling pig and veal sweetbreads. Authentic Southern dishes can be found at the highly recommended Charleston Grill on King Street where local crab is served up at budget friendly prices. Other exciting dining options in Charleston, South Carolina include 39 Rue de Jean, Muse, and Slightly North of Broad.

There is nothing like the Gulf Coast to add excitement and flavor to a foodie destination. Savannah, Georgia uses the succulent resources of local area to create spectacular Southern dishes with a Savannah flare including Shrimp and Grits, Shad Roe, Oysters, and of course BBQ. Top foodie destinations in Savannah include a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences with the top spot honors going to Local 11ten Food & Wine on Bull Street with its contemporary American dishes in the elegant casual setting of a restored 1950's bank. Other top contemporary American cuisine options in Savannah include Sapphire Grill on Congress Street and Elizabeth on 37th, on East 37th Street. Circa 1875 on Whitaker Street is unique among the top foodie destinations in Savannah because it serves Contemporary French cuisine to the tune of classic Jazz in a casual dining atmosphere. Foodie destinations in Savannah recommended by locals include the Italian eateries Tramici and Corelones' Trattoria as well as seafood restaurants Pearl's Saltwater Grill and Belford's Savannah.

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