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Road trips are a perfect opportunity to travel to new places and check out the best local spots.

We looked at popular road-trip restaurants conveniently located by main highways.

From soul food in Alabama to Texas barbecue, these road trip food stops are worth a try.

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Summer's arrival means road-trip season, and these spots are among the best in the country.

Road trips are often filled with long-haul drives and convenience-store snacks. However, instead of filling up on homemade sandwiches and candy, why not stop off at a local restaurant for a delicious meal to power you through your drive ahead?

Business Insider looked at highly rated restaurants in each state that mentioned road trips or were conveniently located near major highways. We also reviewed customer reviews and popular menu items at each restaurant. All the restaurants on this list had a passing health score and were marked open as of July 15, 2024, though menu item availability is subject to change depending on when you visit.

This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now. Have an account? .

Here are popular food stops in every state you need to try on your next road trip.

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ALABAMA: Mary's Southern Cooking in Mobile

What to order: Fried chicken, turkey neck special

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Mary's Southern Cooking here.

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ALASKA: Moose's Tooth in Anchorage

What to order: Spicy Thai chicken pizza, chicken ranch pizza

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Moose's Tooth here.

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ARIZONA: RelicRoad Brewing in Winslow

What to order: Philly cheese steak sandwich, Canyon Diablo burger

What customers say: "Absolutely amazing place if you are up for some good food and beer on your road trip!! The service is amazing as well," wrote Yelp user Mike L.

Learn more about RelicRoad Brewing here.

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ARKANSAS: The Root Cafe in Little Rock

What to order: Curry chicken salad, Root benny

What customers say: "Very cute local restaurant in Little Rock. We were driving through on a long road trip, and the restaurant came out and delivered the food to the car (due to COVID). Everyone was very nice, and the food was delicious," wrote Yelp user Nicole W.

Learn more about The Root Cafe here.

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CALIFORNIA: Yaks on the 5 in Dunsmuir

What to order: Sticky buns, bacon overload burger

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Yaks on the 5 here.

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COLORADO: Westbound andamp; Down Brewery in Idaho Springs

What to order: Fried chicken, bison burger

What customers say: "If [you're] ever in Idaho Springs go to Westbound and Down. We ate there three times a week. On our last visit, we met the owner, a super friendly, pumped-up guy. We had already paid but asked if I got my military discount, made sure to give it to me, and then gave me a coin. Whenever I come back to Colorado this is an every time stop. Thanks for your outstanding service and food," wrote Yelp user Kyle L.

Learn more about Westbound andamp; Down Brewery here.

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CONNECTICUT: The Traveler Restaurant in Union

What to order: Clam chowder, Thanksgiving wrap

What customers say: "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. 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.

Learn more about The Traveler Restaurant here.

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DELAWARE: Jessop's Tavern in New Castle

What to order: Shepherd's pie, Dutch pot roast

What customers say: "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 entrée (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.

Learn more about Jessop's Tavern here.

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FLORIDA: Tom's Cuban On The Go! in Ocala

What to order: Cuban sandwich, steak sandwich

What customers say: "A gem of a find! Very convenient stop for a long drive. The food was authentic andamp; staff was friendly. I just marked it on my map for the next road trip," wrote Yelp user Brittney F.

Learn more about Tom's Cuban On The Go! here.

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GEORGIA: Zunzi's in Savannah

What to order: Conquistador sandwich, Godfather sandwich

What customers say: "These sandwiches were unbelievable. We found this joint on our road trip escaping from Hurricane Irma. It was just a pit stop on our way to ATL. We weren't expecting how good this place would be. Next time I'm in Savannah I'll definitely stop by again," wrote Yelp user David L.

Learn more about Zunzi's here.

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HAWAII: Chicken In A Barrel BBQ-Kapaa in Kapaa

What to order: Pulled pork, barbecue chicken

What customers say: "Awesome roadside BBQ! The meat just falls apart. No need for a knife," wrote Yelp user Luis M.

Learn more about Chicken In A Barrel BBQ-Kapaa here.

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IDAHO: Scooter's Chillin'-N-Grillin' in Twin Falls

What to order: Bison burger, pulled pork tacos

What customers say: "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 they were delicious. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and easy to talk to," wrote Yelp user Jolene W.

Learn more about Scooter's Chillin'-N-Grillin' here.

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ILLINOIS: Blue Springs Cafe in Highland

What to order: Fried chicken, meringue pies

What customers say: "We stopped here for lunch on a recent road trip. It was great! On the return leg of our trip, we called ahead and picked up carry-out (walleye filets, side salad, green beans, and coconut pie). The food was great and better than getting fast food," wrote Yelp user Terri W.

Learn more about Blue Springs Cafe here.

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INDIANA: Payne's Restaurant in Gas City

What to order: Fish and chips, bangers and mash

What customers say: "We took a road trip with friends specifically to have lunch based on the Visit Indiana article. We all were not disappointed. The fish andamp; 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.

Learn more about Payne's Restaurant here.

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IOWA: Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines

What to order: Undead Elvis burger, fried mac burger

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Zombie Burger + Drink Lab here.

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KANSAS: Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que in Kansas City

What to order: Burnt ends, pulled pork

What customers say: "Oh my god. Saying this was the best barbecue I've ever had would be an understatement. I am the luckiest 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.

Learn more about Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que here.

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KENTUCKY: Royals Hot Chicken in Louisville

What to order: Fried chicken sandwich, loaded potato wedges

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Royals Hot Chicken here.

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LOUISIANA: Pamela's Bayou In A Bowl in Alexandria

What to order: Fried chicken, smothered pork chop

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Pamela's Bayou In A Bowl here.

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MAINE: Red's Eats in Wiscasset

What to order: Lobster roll, fried clams

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Red's Eats here.

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MARYLAND: Chaps Pit Beef in Baltimore

What to order: Pit beef sandwich, Big John

What customers say: "This is one of those roadside eateries you pass by, never giving it a second thought... Being situated in front of a strip club doesn't exactly add to the ambiance. But trust me, and the TV shows it's been featured on... Chaps is where it's at! The food is beyond compare," wrote Yelp user Brook H.

Learn more about Chaps Pit Beef here.

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MASSACHUSETTS: B.T.'s Smokehouse in Sturbridge

What to order: Pulled pork, beef ribs

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about B.T.'s Smokehouse here.

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MICHIGAN: The Mason Jar Cafe in Benton Harbor

What to order: Stuffed French toast, huevos rancheros

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about The Mason Jar Cafe here.

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MINNESOTA: The Taco King in Albert Lea

What to order: Enchilada burrito plate, shredded beef enchiladas

What customers say: "We stopped while road-tripping to Wisconsin Dells and were greatly surprised! Expecting a fast-food-type Mexican due to the location and was so happy to discover otherwise! The burritos were hot, fresh, and delicious, the al pastor was excellent, and the service was great! Will definitely be stopping again," wrote Yelp user Carrie F.

Learn more about The Taco King here.

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MISSISSIPPI: The Pig andamp; Pint in Jackson

What to order: Pork rinds, pulled pork sandwich

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about The Pig andamp; Pint here.

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MISSOURI: Pappy's Smokehouse in St. Louis

What to order: Pulled pork, burnt ends

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Pappy's Smokehouse here.

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MONTANA: Hummingbird Cafe in Butte

What to order: Larry Bird sandwich, French toast

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Hummingbird Cafe here.

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NEBRASKA: Open Range Grill in Ogallala

What to order: Chicken sandwich, steak salad

What customers say: "We stopped at the Open Range Grill on our drive from Denver 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.

Learn more about Open Range Grill here.

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NEVADA: Odeh's Mediterranean Restaurant in Elko

What to order: Lamb chops, chicken shawarma sandwich

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Odeh's Mediterranean Restaurant here.

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NEW HAMPSHIRE: Four Aces Diner in West Lebanon

What to order: Eggs Benedict, French toast

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Four Aces Diner here.

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NEW JERSEY: Tops Diner in East Newark

What to order: Fried chicken, pancakes

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Tops Diner here.

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NEW MEXICO: Chico's Tortas y Piñas Lokas in Santa Rosa

What to order: Fish tacos, chicken enchiladas

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Chico's Tortas y Piñas Lokas here.

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NEW YORK: The Cheese Traveler in Albany

What to order: Grilled cheese sandwich, cured meats

What customers say: "The best grilled cheese (the classic) with fabulous tomato soup. Gourmet everything and a great trip of women running the place. Pretty close to the Thruway. Definitely worth the trip," wrote Yelp user Jim D.

Learn more about The Cheese Traveler here.

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NORTH CAROLINA: The Prime Smokehouse in Rocky Mount

What to order: Pulled pork, crab cakes

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about The Prime Smokehouse here.

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NORTH DAKOTA: Fireflour Pizza + Coffee Bar in Bismarck

What to order: Spicy pizza, fennel sausage pizza

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Fireflour Pizza + Coffee Bar here.

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OHIO: Lucky's Cafe in Cleveland

What to order: Waffles, Shipwreck hash

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Lucky's Cafe here.

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OKLAHOMA: The Loaded Bowl in Oklahoma City

What to order: Cashew mac, orange chicken

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about The Loaded Bowl here.

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OREGON: Jack Sprats in Cottage Grove

What to order: Sprat rolls, Perfect Flavor burger

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Jack Sprats here.

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PENNSYLVANIA: Picasso's Erie in Erie

What to order: Mona Lisa sanwich, Van Gogh sandwich

What customers say: "My entire family loved it here. I ordered the Mona Lisa (turkey, artichokes, spinach, pesto, amazingness). I also ordered mac n cheese as my side. Holy good. Definitely not your average mac and cheese. They have a kid's menu. We ordered the grilled cheese and pickle for my daughter. Best pickle ever lives up to its name," wrote Yelp user Julia E.

Learn more about Picasso's Erie here.

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RHODE ISLAND: Brick Alley Pub andamp; Restaurant in Newport

What to order: Lobster roll, clam chowder

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Brick Alley Pub andamp; Restaurant here.

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SOUTH CAROLINA: Katie's Sandwich Shop in Gaston

What to order: Chicken salad sandwich, Reuben sandwich

What customers say: "If you're driving up or down I-26 and need a great lunch, look no further. Katie's is the alternative to all those fast-food interstate exit options. Just a quick drive (less than 5 minutes) from the exit you'll find this awesome local place serving up some great sandwiches by some friendly Southern ladies. Bookmark it for your next road trip, and you won't regret it," wrote Yelp user Andrew J.

Learn more about Katie's Sandwich Shop here.

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SOUTH DAKOTA: Circle E Drive-In in Murdo

What to order: Bacon cheeseburger, bacon chicken sandwich

What customers say: "One of the best burgers ever! So fresh and delicious. We were traveling from Badlands National Park to Sioux Falls and needed to stop for lunch. The restaurant is close to the highway and was an easy, quick stop. The staff were welcoming and friendly. We sat outside on the patio. I had the cheeseburger and my husband had the Big Al burger. Both were delicious. We shared a small fry and had plenty left over. Very reasonably priced with burgers around $9 and fries $3.," wrote Yelp user Mary A.

Learn more about Circle E Drive-In here.

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TENNESSEE: Biscuit Love: Gulch in Nashville

What to order: East Nasty, Princess Biscuit

What customers say: "Best food in Nashville! We ordered ahead via the 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 Biscuit sandwiches were to die for!! I recommend 100%!! Along with the Bonuts," wrote Yelp user Molly E.

Learn more about Biscuit Love: Gulch here.

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TEXAS: Tyler's Barbeque in Amarillo

What to order: Chopped brisket sandwich, pulled pork sandwich

What customers say: "We stopped here on the way to Santa Fe and it was delicious. The jalapeño corn was amazing--highly recommend," wrote Yelp user Kayli M.

Learn more about Tyler's Barbeque here.

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UTAH: Centro Woodfired Pizzeria in Cedar City

What to order: Arugula salad, sausage fennel pizza

What customers say: "We were driving through town on a road trip and sick of diners 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 with the Brooklyn Pepperoni pizza, and finished with the Nutella baked pizza with whip cream! The food quality was excellent in line with what you would expect at a high-quality metropolitan Italian restaurant," wrote Yelp user Judi M.

Learn more about Centro Woodfired Pizzeria here.

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VERMONT: Prohibition Pig in Waterbury

What to order: House burger, brisket sandwich

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Prohibition Pig here.

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VIRGINIA: Angelle's Diner in Troutville

What to order: Cowboy burger, eggs Benedict

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Angelle's Diner here.

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WASHINGTON: Frank's Diner in Spokane

What to order: Chicken fried steak, eggs Benedict

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Frank's Diner here.

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WISCONSIN: Baumgartner's Cheese Store andamp; Tavern in Monroe

What to order: Hot pastrami sandwich, cheese sandwich

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Baumgartner's Cheese Store andamp; Tavern here.

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WYOMING: Anong's Thai Cuisine in Rawlins

What to order: Pad Thai, yellow curry

What customers say: "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.

Learn more about Anong's Thai Cuisine here.

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