Spoon University brings together people from all over the world to form a community of amazing contributors who are all passionate about food. Unlike traditional chapters, which are all based on a single college campus, the High School chapter of Spoon University is made up of high school students from cities nationwide. The biggest benefit of this spread is that wherever you travel, you’re likely in a city where one of the High School contributors lives, so you can count on amazing food recommendations. Here’s a list of our favorite hometown restaurants to check out in cities across the country.
Upbeet, Atlanta, GA
“A delicious and unique restaurant in Atlanta is Upbeet. It is essentially a salad version of Chipotle, where you can customize your own salad with tasty and fresh ingredients such as toasted pumpkin seeds, nitrate-free bacon, and purple rice! A quintessential meal at Upbeet should also include one of their smoothies or even their charcoal lemonade.” – Sarah Street, Atlanta, GA
Local Foods, Houston, TX
“The best lunch spot in Houston, by far, is Local Foods. It’s a trendy, healthy sandwich spot with a few locations around town. The hip ambiance, mixed with the delicious (and good for you!) sandwich combinations, makes for a perfect lunch! If you stop by, be sure to try the Crunchy Chicken Sandwich- it’s amazing.” –Sara Frank, Houston, TX
Chiloso, Dallas, TX
“If you’re in the Dallas area and you’re in the mood for some crazy good tex-mex, you’ve got to stop by Chiloso. Think of Chipotle, but with three times as many options that are all exquisite and authentic. If it was socially acceptable to put sauce on literally everything, I would, because their jalapeño ranch is to die for. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, Chiloso is the place to go.” – Noah Hutchinson, Dallas, TX
The Rolling Pin Cafe, Westwood, NJ
“The best place to eat in Bergen County, NJ is The Rolling Pin Cafe in Westwood. They have the best mac and cheese I’ve ever tasted, seasonal iced coffees, and amazing salads, soups, and sandwiches. With its rustic, grandma-like interior, it’s the perfect place to meet friends during the week or on weekends.” – Avery Paulen, Hillsdale, NJ
Jubala Coffee, Raleigh, NC
“If you happen to be in Raleigh, don’t hesitate to stop by this hipster coffee shop. Jubala Coffee contains a hub of college students who need help staying awake and motivated (or just want to feel fancy). From freshly-infused teas to sweet chai tea lattes and one-of-a-kind housemade waffles, this is the ideal place to go when you need a dose of inspiration to sustain you for the day.” – Cassidy Orr, Raleigh, NC
San Mateo Pizzeria e Cucina, New York, NY
“My favorite local restaurant is San Mateo Pizzeria e Cucina. They have delicious Neapolitan style pizza and a wide variety of pastas and salad. My favorites are the arugula salad, margarita pizza, gnocchi, and their Nutella pizza. It is a great reliable, neighborhood spot.” – Hannah Freiberg, New York, NY
Teak, Red Bank, NJ
“Located in Red Bank, Teak is in the heart of the quaint, trendy town. The restaurant has a full variety of sushi rolls, as well as Asian inspired cuisine. Whether you’re craving Pad Thai, Shrimp and Pork Ramen, or fall-off-the-bone Short Ribs, the menu has you covered with many options. The newly added rooftop bar is a unique and comfy lounge. Whether you come on a date or with a big group, the restaurant is perfect for everyone.”
– Marisa Palace, Manalapan, NJ
Tommy’s Restaurant, Cleveland, OH
One of my favorite hometown restaurants in Cleveland is Tommy’s Restaurant, in the trendy neighborhood of Coventry. This Cleveland classic has something for everyone, from warm falafel and pita to burgers, salads, and their famous milkshakes. For families, teens, or anyone looking for simple, delicious food, Tommy’s is the place to go.” – Emma Briskin, Cleveland, OH
Flower Child, Scottsdale, AZ
“The best place to eat in my town is Flower Child. This spot is a north Scottsdale classic, and has healthy options for lunch and dinner. Their wraps, bowls, salads, and sides are all excellent, and Flower Child’s bright atmosphere is the perfect place to enjoy the Arizona sunshine.” – Hannah Bernier, Scottsdale, AZ
56 Kitchen, Solon, OH
“One of my favorite hometown restaurants is 56 Kitchen. I love 56 Kitchen because of its omnivorous menu! There are tons of vegan and vegetarian options, so there’s something for everyone. Definitely one of the best restaurants in Solon, hands down.” – Gina Kong, Solon, OH
Oren’s Hummus Shop, San Francisco, CA
“My favorite local eatery is Oren’s Hummus Shop, a Mediterranean restaurant that specializes in hummus, pita, and Israeli cuisine. After stumbling into Oren’s a few years back, I was immediately hooked on the fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and commitment to sustainability that makes the restaurant so unique. Their warm, fluffy pita is absolutely to die for, especially when dipped in one of their freshly prepared hummus varieties. Some other must-try options are the babaganoush, falafel, and Israeli salad. If you ever find yourself in the SF Bay Area, be sure to pay a visit Oren’s Hummus Shop — I can guarantee that you will not regret it!” – Gabi Danitz, San Francisco, CA
The Metropolitan Bistro, Sea Cliff, NY
“I live in a tiny town on Long Island called Sea Cliff, and despite it being only one-square mile in size, there are tons of delicious restaurants and cafes. My favorite restaurant is The Metropolitan Bistro. Between live music on Friday nights, pizza served straight out of the restaurant’s brick oven, and the most friendly, welcoming staff, a night spent at The Metropolitan Bistro will make you smile from ear-to-ear. I am obsessed with their tilapia severed over a tomato and white bean ragù and their Javi salad.” – Zoe Malin, Sea Cliff, NY
From the Lone Star State to the Big Apple, Spoonies love their favorite hometown restaurants. Next time you’re in any of these neighborhoods, stop in one of these incredible restaurants and you’ll see why they’re our top places to enjoy a meal.