You get to choose your adventure. Why not explore the Southwest region of the U.S. next? In addition to its arid deserts, red rock landscapes, and rugged mountains, the Southwest offers delicious cuisine that is guaranteed to delight anyone’s tastebuds. These are the top Southwest destinations to feed your face:
🍲 Austin, Texas
Image from austintexas.org
Picture this: It’s 11 P.M. and you just got done with a 12-hour shift, so to say you’re hungry would be an understatement. But it’s so late—will anyplace still be open? And that’s when you see the open sign at Seoulju Korean Kitchen and Bar and rejoice.
Image from the Seoulju Korean Kitchen and Bar Facebook page
When you have a hankering for authentic Korean fare, head over to Seoulju! You’ll find staples like crispy marinated Korean fried chicken, beef bulgogi rice plates, and kimchi pancakes. Plus, on a particularly chilly night, you can’t go wrong with the loaded spicy rice cake hot pot (and pro tip: Say yes to the cheese. You can thank us later).
Sure, this pizzeria may have been closed for a while, but now Bufalina Due is back and better than ever. And lucky for you, you can catch them on Burnet Road in good ol’ Austin, Texas.
Image from the Bufalina Facebook page
Whether you’re out on the town with your traveler friends or flying solo on a self-date night, Bufalina Due is the perfect foodie destination for hungry bellies. Of course, the menu boasts your usual pizza classics like margherita and four cheese, but in addition to the usuals, the Bufalina menu goes the extra mile with specialty pies like the vodka arrabiatta—made with vodka sauce, fontina, mozzarella, garlic, oregano, parmesan cheese, and chili flakes, sprinkled with black pepper. Or there’s the pickle pie pizza that’s made with parm cream, mozzarella, pickled peppers and cucumbers, plus cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and garlic, topped with chili oil. No matter what you order, you can’t go wrong.
As a bonus, learn how to make Bufalina pizzas right at home with Paula Forbes’ cookbook, “Austin Cookbook: Recipes and Stories from Deep in the Heart of Texas.”
Would you consider yourself a fried chicken connoisseur? If you answered “yes,” then there’s a 100% chance you need to visit Bird Bird Biscuit and try this one-of-a-kind fried chicken sandwich shop.
Image from the Bird Bird Facebook page
Between this dynamic duo, Brian is the el Capitán and biscuit whisperer and Ryan is the businessman behind the curtain. Together, they work their magic to produce some of the most luscious fried chicken and biscuits your tastebuds have ever experienced. Like the queen beak sandwich made from spiced and breaded chicken breast, cayenne black pepper honey, and bacon-infused chipotle mayo or the little dipper—a grilled cheese biscuit sandwich made with mozzarella and cheddar cheese, served with a marinara dipping sauce. Mmm, yes please.
Image from visithoustontexas.com
Phat (adj.): Highly attractive or gratifying. And that’s the kind of food you’re going to get when you visit Phat Eatery. Make sure you wear your eating pants when you visit this Katy Asian Town foodie joint, you’re going to need them.
Image from the Phat Eatery Facebook page
If it’s your first time in a Malaysian eatery, don’t fret. You’re in great hands at Phat Eatery. The menu items at this food joint are inspired by Chef Alex’s upbringing in Hong Kong, his Malaysian heritage, and both culture’s rich culinary traditions. Here are some suggestions on what to order when you arrive:
Did you know that xochi (so-chee) means to bloom or catch fire? Neither did we until we discovered Xochi, a Houston-based eatery that honors the “culinary and indigenous richness” of Oaxaca, Mexico.
Image from the Xochi Facebook page
That means that you’ll find a wide variety of homemade masas made from many colorful types of corn, an endless supply of moles, and even homemade chocolate. Plus, Xochi offers other distinctive Oaxacan-inspired dishes like ribbons of cheese (aka quesillo) wrapped in balls, imported coffee, fire-roasted tortillas, grasshoppers, and beans cooked with avocado leaves. Whether you have an intense sweet tooth or prefer something more savory, Xochi truly has something for everyone.
What’s better than one delicious eatery? Answer: TWO delicious eateries, obviously. And technically, Riel is only one of two restaurants operating out of one building, thanks to Chef Ryan LaChaine. Next to Riel, you’ll find a pickup- and delivery-only restaurant called Louie’s that specializes in fun sandwiches like pizza subs, butter burger sliders, and their version of the classic Filet-o-Fish. And then there’s Riel right next door.
Image from the Riel Facebook page
Explore the eclectic menu and get a taste of all the goodies. Might we suggest the kimchi carbonara made with grilled marinated shrimp, kimchi cream cheese, green onion, and to top it all off, bacon. Then there’s le Riel mac, which includes beef patties Riel special sauce, diced onions, shredded lettuce, and pickles all between a potato bun. And, of course, we can’t forget the pierogis with potato and cheddar filling, caramelized onion, and horseradish crème. Om nom nom.
Image from visitlasvegas.com
The first stop on our Vegas foodcapades is Honey Salt, a special farm-to-table restaurant on the west side. When you step foot into Honey Salt, you’re immediately enveloped in the aroma of freshly cooked ingredients and completely encompassed in all the positive vibes, like a big, comforting hug.
Image from the Honey Salt Facebook page
According to their website, “Whether it’s our interpretations of classic comfort food or our lighter, wellness-based fare, our vegan options or our decadent brunch, Honey Salt’s product is always sourced, prepared, and served with love.” And you can taste the love in whatever you order. Some foodie faves from this iconic restaurant include the buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, the bacon grilled cheese, and the banana foster French toast with almond granola and chocolate pearls.
The best part is you can give cooking Honey Salt’s specials your best shot, thanks to the “Honey Salt: A Culinary Scrapbook” cookbook. Once you have the cookbook in hand, do a fun experiment to see if you can match the intense flavors of Honey Salt. May the odds be ever in your favor.
Who knew you didn’t have to cross the border to try an authentic Tijuana taco? Instead of digging out the ol’ passport, call an Uber, and get a ride to Tacos El Gordo in Las Vegas. Trust us, it’s worth it.
Image from the Tacos El Gordo Facebook page
Tacos El Gordo was born from a dream in San Diego in 1998. It wasn’t until 2010 that the family expanded and made their way to viva Las Vegas. Now, 12 years later, Tacos El Gordo has become a well-known and beloved restaurant for Vegas locals and visitors alike. And it’s all because of their authentic Tijuana tacos with handmade corn tortillas, top-grade meat selection, and the freshest ingredients for added flavor. If you’re overwhelmed by the robust menu, start with a classic, like a carne asada taco, and work your way up to the more adventurous flavors, like a lengua (or beef tongue) taco. Either way, your tastebuds will thank you. And to that, they’re welcome.
If you’re in need of a good meal and a cozy roof over your head, then look no further than Osteria Fiorella at Red Rock Resort—it’s a two-for-one! Make reservations with the resort and enjoy the dining room at Osteria while you’re there.
Image from the Osteria Fiorella Gordo Facebook page
At Osteria Fiorella, you’ll find notably different Italian cuisine that you can’t get enough of. Don’t believe us? We double dog dare you to try some deliciousness for yourself:
Like what you’re reading? You may also like: Where to Eat on the West Coast
Image from visitrenotahoe.com
Usually when we think of a four-course meal, we think something along the lines of, “Holy money!” But Fourk Kitchen is bringing multi-course meals back into style with its unique and, best of all, affordable dining experience.
Image from the Fourk Kitchen Facebook page
With each visit, you receive a four-course meal including two starters, one main course, and one dessert. In the past, Fourk Kitchen has served meals like arugula salad with watermelon, chicken pozole verde, angus beef burgers on a pretzel bun, and drunken berries. Wondering what’s on the menu this month? Only one way to find out!
Eat, drink, gossip—that’s the motto at Rice Box Kitchen. Because what goes better with a side of hot goss than delicious food and drink? Head to Rice Box Kitchen to find out.
Image from the Rice Box Kitchen Facebook page
At Rice Box Kitchen, you can expect delectable home-cooked Thai comfort food that’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Don’t believe us? Well then try these specialties for yourself and then let us know what you think:
While working in Reno, make sure you take some time to explore downtown. Here, you’ll find specialty shops, adrenaline activities, and, best of all, incredible food, like from Liberty Food & Wine Exchange. Regain your strength and refuel at this Reno restaurant—you won’t be sorry!
Image from the Liberty Food & Wine Exchange Facebook page
Not only is Liberty a popular dining eatery, but it’s also a USDA butcher shop! At the butcher shop, Liberty focuses on whole animal butchery to produce a wide range of classic charcuterie, sausages, cured meats, and salami. Like in the restaurant, the butcher shop uses locally sourced products to serve the “most delicious” meats around.
Hit Liberty any day of the week for lunch or dinner or stop by on the weekend for brunch! For lunch and dinner, you can expect menu items like wood roasted cauliflower, three little pig pizza, old school gnocchi, and Kennedy ranch chicken. For brunch, you can look forward to all the classics like eggs benedict, breakfast burritos, or a variety of omelets.
Image from santafe.org
When thinking of Santa Fe, do you think of authentic Southern Indian cuisine? Perhaps not, but after dining at Paper Dosa, your mind might change.
Image from the Paper Dosa Facebook page
On the menu, you’ll find classic Indian meals like a diverse array of dosas including the classic filled with potatoes blended with turmeric, caramelized onions, whole red chiles, mustard seeds, and cashews, a lamb keema dosa that’s served with a side of spiced ground lamb cooked with tomatoes and onions, or a spicy basil dosa, made with cashews, cilantro, chiles, and gingers spread inside the dosa and topped with potato masala. Of course, you’ll also find delicious foods outside of dosas. For example, you can’t go wrong with any of the uttapam or curries!
Whether you’re looking for a foodie place to take your partner on a hot date, to dine with your BFFs, or to treat yourself, we promise you’ll find what you’re looking for when you visit Arroyo Vino. This off-the-beaten-path restaurant and wine shop duo has become a staple for serving some of New Mexico’s finest and most creative cuisine.
Opened in 2011, Arroyo Vino was created to give the people of New Mexico what they want: Delicious and innovative cuisine. How do they do that? Through teamwork, of course. Managing partner and co-owner, Brian Bargsten, has been with the restaurant since its inception and handles all aspects of the business from buying wine to sweeping floors. Then, there’s Chef Allison Jenkins who’s been with Arroyo Vino since 2018. Chef Allison uses her culinary talents and creativity to produce some of the best meals in all of the state, according to diners over the years.
At Arroyo Vino, you’ll find menu items you may have never seen anywhere else. And part of the reason for that is because many of the ingredients used at Arroyo come from their very own garden right next door to the restaurant. So, whether you order the five-spice duck breast, Moroccan spice lamb T-bones, or grilled Japanese eggplant, you’ll know your food is prepared fresh just for you!
Did you know the first nonstick Teflon pan was produced in 1950? Or that James Dean appeared in his first Pepsi commercial that year? Most importantly, 1950 also happened to be the same year Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen came into existence. And boy, are we glad it did.
Image from the Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen Facebook page
Since its inception, Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen has had several owners. But throughout the different leadership, the quality of food has stayed the same, although menu items may have changed slightly. Nowadays, you can find New Mexican fare like New Mexican tacos, tortilla burgers, carne adova, and more!
Image from visitokc.com
Why settle for just dinner when you can get dinner and a show? And now you can! That’s right—head over to VZD’s Restaurant & Bar for some of Oklahoma City’s “best entertainment.”
Image from the VZD’s Restaurant & Bar Facebook page
When it comes to the food and drinks, VZD’s does not disappoint. The menu stays on-theme with performance headers for the appetizers, entrees, and desserts—or as they’re known at VZD’s, the opening acts, headliners, and closer. To start, we’d recommend the chips and loaded queso with seasoned ground beef and black bean corn salsa. Next, try the jerk chicken street tacos or the bacon jalapeno Alejandro burger. And of course, we can’t forget dessert—churro chips drizzled with homemade bourbon caramel. Now that’s what we’re talking about.
Did you know that studies have found a strong connection between smell and memories? That means that you can remember something based on a certain smell. If you want to experience this IRL, just go to Nunu’s Mediterranean Café because once you dine at this restaurant, the aroma of Greek food will forever be etched into your memory and associated with a good time.
Image from the Nunu’s Mediterranean Café Facebook page
Named after the “beloved matriarch,” Nunu Farhood, this Greek/Lebanese restaurant features recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation. Not only that, but Nunu’s exclusively uses the finest ingredients in town and features options for all foodies including meat-lovers, vegetarians, vegans, and those who are gluten-sensitive. As they say at Nunus, “We want everyone to be able to enjoy the Lebanese food we love regardless of food preferences or sensitivities.”
Bring an appetite when you visit Nunu’s and start with one of the diverse appetizers. You really can’t go wrong with whatever you decide on, but in our humble opinion, the basil pesto dip and stuffed grape leaves are fire. 🔥 For the main course, try the falafel sandwich—mildly spicy vegetarian patties fried crisp and served in pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and Nunu’s famous tahini sauce, topped with your choice of hummus or baba ghanouj—or if you’re craving something special, might we suggest the charbroiled beef kafta over hashwa? This delicacy is made with two delicious charbroiled beef kafta served over Nunu’s famous hashwa, served with tabouli salad, hummus dip, and pita bread.
Image from the Nunu’s Mediterranean Café Facebook page
Some things just work together, like peanut butter and jelly, macaroni and cheese, Ben and Jerry, and Chef David Henry and Kyle Fleishfresser—the duo behind The Hutch on Avondale.
Image from The Hutch on Avondale Facebook page
At The Hutch on Avondale, the menu is centered around fresh and seasonal options served as “progressive interpretations.” When you have a hankering for something delicious, stop by this neighborhood foodie fave and treat yourself to something tasty. Like braised short rib with cauliflower puree, fried brussels sprouts, and charred onion or the all-natural black angus burger topped with bacon, Tillamook cheddar, lettuce, and tomato. To top it all off, try one of The Hutch’s famous desserts like brandy ice or a cookie flight!
One of the greatest perks of being a professional travel nurse or allied health traveler is the chance to work like a boss and live like a local in destinations across the U.S. And to live like a local, you must eat like one! So, what are you waiting for? Start your travel journey and taste-test your way through the Southwest region of the country. We can’t wait to hear all about it!
Ready for dessert? Check out our other travel guides by restaurant in the Med Traveler's Foodie Guide series!