East Coast Eats
Experience the flavor of the East Coast by visiting these foodie cities.
Much like the south, the East Coast is known for some delicious dishes. From lobster in Maine, to Philly cheesesteaks in – you guessed it – Philly, a trip to the “right coast” is a must for foodies. While much of the food we’re highlighting can be found on menus all over the country, these eats originated – and were made famous – along the East Coast.
If you’re a fan of seafood, start your trip in Maine and work your way down to Boston. Not only is Maine a major hub for delectable lobster, the Damariscotta river is the best spot in the northeast for oyster farming. Visit King Eider’s Pub in Damariscotta to taste the oysters fresh from the river. Portland, Maine, also is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the country. The Culture Trip has a list of the Top 10 spots in the city to eat, and our mouths are watering already!
More seafood, you ask? Visit Boston in early August for the Boston Seafood Festival. The annual gathering on the coast includes everything from cooking demonstrations, classic dishes and some unusual twists and surprises. (Don’t forget to sample the clam chowder!) While we’re talking about Boston, you’ll want to check out the thriving brewery scene, as well as some of the farm-to-table options and farmers’ markets.
Continuing down the coast, what’s an East Coast eats list without a trip to New York City? NYC is a cultural hub where you can get almost any type of food delivered at almost any hour of the day, whether it’s Chinese food at 1 a.m. or pizza at noon. Speaking of pizza, try ordering a pie New York-style, which is super thin, flat, foldable and absolutely delicious. Di Fara Pizza has earned high marks for its menu, and it comes with the long lines to prove it! Thrillist and Time Out New York also have some incredible lists of places to try to find the best pizza in NYC.
Finally, an East Coast food tour isn’t complete without a Philly Cheesesteak. This famous sandwich has a history and some ordering instructions to go with it. In 1930, Pat Olivieri simply decided to put beef on the grill of his hot dog stand. The rest, as they say, is history. Visit Philadelphia has you covered with how and where to order your cheesesteak. It might be best to check out all the spots and judge the best for yourself.
While we highlighted northeast spots, you’ll find some mouth-watering southern cooking as you head down the coast to cities like Charleston, S.C., and Savannah, Ga. Feeling like soul food?
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