Looking for travel inspiration? Each year, Travel + Leisure reveals its “50 Places to Travel,” prompting annual updates to wanderlust wish lists. This year, the team sifted through over 100 potential destinations, adding fresh insights and categorizing locations by adventure, big-city energy, culinary experiences and more. Two U.S. cities in particular stood out as top destinations for food and drink—and you should add them both to your 2026 itinerary.
Alongside Umbria, Taipei, Sancerre and Malaysia, Carlsbad, California and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania earned accolades for culinary offerings that are worth the trip. Although one is all about sun and sea breezes and the other delivers bold, global flavors, both are experiencing a culinary moment that should capture any foodie’s attention.
Carlsbad may be best known for surf culture and laid-back beach eats, but the city is undergoing a culinary upgrade that’s hard to miss. Travel + Leisure spotlights chef Emily Brubaker, winner of NBC’s Yes! Chef and now executive chef at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, where she oversees eight dining spots—many featuring ingredients from on-site herb gardens and beehives. Her “Chefs and Friends” dinner series draws talent and attention well beyond the region.
The city also boasts Michelin-starred restaurants from chefs like Eric Bost of Jeune et Jolie and restaurateur John Resnick. Lilo, a chef’s table experience, earned a star just weeks after opening. Campfire, known for rustic live-fire cooking, and the lively all-day café Wildland are generating buzz for their sunny creativity. Signature Carlsbad spots embody a California spirit, combining outdoor dining, coastal views and ingredients from nearby farms. Other highlights include Little Victory Wine Bar and the soon-to-open Hotel Solea, which will debut an alfresco Italian restaurant.
Across the country, Philadelphia’s dining scene continues to thrive. While the city’s rich history anchors it, culinary energy comes from chefs pushing global flavors and reimagining classics. Travel + Leisure highlights Mawn, a Southeast Asia–inspired noodle shop by rising star Phila Lorn, and La Jefa, a Mexican café offering clever cocktails and inventive chilaquiles.
Vetri Cucina's pasta tasting menu is a must, as are Emei, Osteria and Ocean Harbor, according to the outlet. Philadelphia now has its own section in the Michelin Guide Northeast Cities, further elevating its profile. With America250 events and six FIFA World Cup matches in 2026, the city is primed for visitors.
Clearly, the U.S. is the place to eat.