Every State's Best New Restaurant Of 2026

The restaurant landscape is an ever-changing one, and it's possible to underestimate how many openings and closings happen in a year. According to statistics from Bank of America, the first half of 2026 saw 9,541 new restaurants opening ... and 8,171 closures. Those are wild numbers, especially when you consider each of those impacts countless lives of both owners and employees. Of course, we'd rather talk about the high points, and shine a light on some of the best new restaurants to set up shop in 2026.

This year has seen new spots with super-creative concepts, places opened by James Beard Award-winning chefs, buzzy venues getting attention from the Michelin Guide, and food trucks that made the jump into brick-and-mortar locations. There are familiar names, new faces, and a lot of exciting things going on.

If you're wondering how we picked the best from restaurants that have only been open for a few months (or, in some cases, a few weeks), we wondered about it a bit, too. We looked for restaurants from chefs with a reputation of winning awards for outstanding menus, along with chefs who have had success elsewhere and are now breaking out on their own. Restaurants with fun and funky ideas, the U.S. debuts of successful overseas concepts, and expanded offerings from long-beloved restaurant groups were all fair game, and here's the spots that should be on your radar.

Birmingham is now home to a neat place called High Dive HiFi Lounge, and there's more than just great food to be found here. Featuring a menu developed with input from James Beard award-winning chef Sean Brock, it also has vintage turntables bringing the sound, where guest DJs are the norm. It's the perfect place to slow down and relax. As for the food? Its scotch deviled eggs, pork belly rice bowls, and beef skewers aren't to be missed.

highdive-bham.com

(205) 202-9364

524 32nd St, Birmingham, AL 35233

El Green-Go's has been a long-running, beloved food truck that we've featured a few times. Tasting Table gave this spot the nod not only for the best burrito in the state and the best tacos in Alaska, but also the best food truck in the state. After a decade on the road, it's finally settling down. Those fan favorite tacos and burritos still make the most of local ingredients, alongside a heaping helping of creativity. Breakfast options are a win, and so are the brisket street tacos.

elgreengosak.com

(907) 312-3313

5305 E Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99508

Ramen done right is an art form, and that's what came to Chandler, Arizona with the arrival of Iro Shoten Ramen + Sushi. Ingredients come from Japan, noodles are scratch-made, and it's all done under the watchful eye of ramen master Hirohata Norihiro. You'll find ramen with wagyu here, a carefully created, exquisite broth, near-perfect noodles, and attention to details that extends to the eggs.

iroshoten.com

(480) 780-9097

1940 W Chandler Blvd, Chandler, AZ 85224

The eagerly awaited Hazel's Public House was the topic of a lot of buzzy press when it was announced it was opening in Little Rock. The upscale burger joint is taking things seriously, from baking its own buns to making everything from the sauces to the desserts — just like Grandma did. You can expect ultra tender chicken sandwiches, incredible burgers, spot-on good vibes, and beef tallow fries, too.

hazelspublichouse.com

(501) 712-5757

225 E Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201

Maria Isabel is a new Mexican restaurant that's made a splash in San Francisco. A commitment to local sourcing — from farmers and its own garden — is just the start. There's also a cocktail program that the Michelin Guide named the best in the state in 2026, and the James Beard Foundation has given kudos, too. Every dish is a standout, from dry aged ribeye tacos to caviar guacamole and sea urchin.

mariaisabelsf.com

(415) 275-0075

500 Presidio Ave, San Francisco, CA 94115

On opening, Casa Juani was described as an ode to family and fun. This Spanish restaurant hit in a big way, immediately getting a Michelin Guide recommendation that called out cocktails, sangria, and the seared duck as delish, and customers agree. Whether it's tuna roja apps and Iberico pork , or tarts and flan for dessert, it's an entire experience.

casajuaniboulder.com

(303) 484-1880

901 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302

Chef Prasad Chirnomula certainly isn't a newcomer to Connecticut's foodie landscape. Long known for his exquisite Indian cuisine, the original Thali closed back in 2017, but has been reborn in 2026. The variety of naan is outstanding, with an array of vegetarian dishes that are sure to please. Vibes are chill, service is on point, and it's perfect for a special occasion.

thali.com

(203) 242-0200

62 Main St, New Canaan, CT 06840

You'll find a bit of everything at the Peach Grove Market, from BBQ favorites to local produce and grab-and-go bites. It's proof good things can come in small packages, with a cozy feel and breakfast sandwiches that aren't to be missed. House-made veggie burgers get rave reviews, and the BBQ is first rate. Also, be sure to save room for the carrot cake.

peachgrovemarket.com

(302) 388-6034

709 Mapleton Ave, Middletown, DE 19709

No longer will you have to go all the way to Tokyo to experience the Michelin-starred Oniku Karyu. Miami's gorgeous new Karyu is the stateside offshoot, headed by a chef that's putting Japanese wagyu front and center. It's celebrated for precision, balanced flavors, and sensations, as well as pacing that gives you time to savor each bite. It's nothing short of enchanting.

karyu-mia.com

40 NE 41st St, Miami, FL 33137

Few restaurants have a story that can compare to chef Demetrius Brown's Heritage Supper Club. It isn't just about the food — although that's outstanding — it's also about art, culture, family, and the African diaspora. Each and every piece of the experience has been carefully and thoughtfully created. The tasting menu has already gotten rave reviews, and diners appreciate the history behind each dish.

heritagesupperclub.com

(470) 567-3054

63 Georgia Ave, Atlanta, GA 30317

Hawaii's quietest restaurant opening is its most impressive, and that's Torishin. The yakitori spot is following in the footsteps of the (formerly) Michelin-starred New York City original, and it's getting buzzy press for serving elegant dishes as tasty as they are beautiful. Service is warm and welcoming, while every skewer is a delight. And for the full experience, opt to sit at the chef's counter.

torishinny.com

(808) 600-5057

1001 Queen St, Honolulu, HI 96814

Boise Crust started out as a food truck, and it's now a brick-and-mortar in Meridian, Idaho. That's great news for the many fans of the Detroit-style pizzas coming out of the oven, and some say it's even better than anything you can find in Detroit itself. Everything from the crust to the cheese and the overloaded toppings are on point (just don't forget the breadsticks).

boisecrust.com

(986) 200-9592

1580 N Stonehenge Way, Meridian, ID 83642

Gingie is helmed by Chef Brian Lockwood, who has had an incredible career in Michelin-starred kitchens and working alongside greats like Thomas Keller. If you've heard "The Bear" described as too real, he's part of the reason, as Lockwood was a consulting chef. After a rocky start that saw a reopening necessitated by fire, Gingie is getting rave reviews as one of the best restaurants in Chicago – full stop. The tortelloni is a must, and so are the oysters and wagyu.

gingiechicago.com

(312) 600-6305

707 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654

The Bestie's Table is Indianapolis's trendy new brunch spot, and it's all about welcoming each person as the next members of the besties crew. It's so popular that there's a good chance you'll have to wait before eating, but it's worth it: Customers confirm it's one of those places you just want to be. Chicken and waffles are top tier, and so are the mimosas, but don't overlook the French toast.

tcbesties.com

(317) 492-9615

4022 Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN 46227

If you're looking for the best new restaurant in Iowa in 2026, you'll likely be directed to LUX Asian Restaurant & Bar. It's a classy spot offering some of the best Asian and Asian fusion around, alongside a serious cocktail program. The menu itself is delightfully modern, and even the simplest of dishes pack a ton of flavor into every bite. Imagine massive chicken drumsticks and crispy wings, delicious salads, along with key lime pie drinks.

facebook.com/profile

(515) 209-9999

3150 Grand Prairie Pkwy, Waukee, IA 50263

Wichita was all a-flutter with the opening of a takeout Japanese restaurant called Tokizo, and if you've ever wanted to stop for some quick sushi in Kansas? This is your place. It's already become a favorite, and there's no way to go wrong. The sushi is delish, and there's also chicken and pork katsu. These come highly recommended — along with udon – and the cucumber salad is wonderfully refreshing.

tokizowichita.com

(316) 288-0177

5231 E Central Ave, Wichita, KS 67208

Carson's Back Porch is the newest addition to the popular Carson family of restaurants. You can expect this one to be warm, elegant, and welcoming, with steaks and seafood taking center stage. Perhaps nowhere is the upscale back porch vibe better displayed than with the Knife & Fork Corn Dog, which is as delicious as it is fun. There's also oysters, lobster rolls, chicken strips for the kiddos, and bacon wrapped filet bites.

carsonsbackporch.com

(859) 309-3039

321 East Vine St, Lexington, KY 40507

Casimiro is a breakfast spot that made it into the Michelin Guide's list of recommended restaurants just a few months after it opened. The critics love everything from the freshly made tortillas to the vibe, and it's not surprising. Chef Ana Castro is also at the helm of Acamaya, which has a Bib Gourmand nod from the Guide. It's so welcoming, in fact, that you might spot some locals stopping by in their pajamas. There's no better place for out-of-this-world tamales, chilaquiles, and huevos divorciados.

instagram.com/casimironola

(504) 345-2218

800 Louisa St, New Orleans, LA 70117

Anyone who loves a bit of history with their dinner needs to head to The Mustard Public House, as it's giving new life to a property that dates back to 1790. It's proving so popular that you might find all reservations have been filled, and one look at the food makes it clear why. The burgers and loaded fries are divine, as are the cocktails. Save room for dessert, too, especially if it's the black forest cheesecake.

themustardpublichouse.com

(207) 298-9107

1420 Long Plains Rd, Buxton, ME 04093

You'll find the 12-seat Chef's Counter nestled inside the grounds of the 177-acre winery and farm known as Burnt Hill Farm. Since adding the restaurant — for which you need reservations — it's gotten attention from the James Beard Foundation and The New York Times. Wines are, of course, central to the experience. But charcuterie, focaccia pizza, and roasted veg round things out, and the place itself is magical.

burnthill.farm

(667) 788-8636

25001 Burnt Hill Rd, Clarksburg, MD 20871

Boston has no shortage of wonderful places to dine, and 2026 saw another name added to the city's foodie landscape: Hawksmoor. The original opened in London in 2006, and has become synonymous with ethical steaks and seafood alongside good vibes — which it's bringing to Boston. Think world-class wagyu steaks, fish and chips done right, and desserts you'll want to save room for.

thehawksmoor.com/us/locations/boston

(781) 208 8300

15 Necco St, Boston, MA 02210

When Medusa Cucina Siciliana opened in early 2026, it brought a slice of Sicily to Detroit. It was all overseen by James Beard semifinalist Chef Anthony Lombardo, who promised a menu utilizing all the finest of Mediterranean ingredients — and it's working. While the tasting menu gets rave reviews, so does the grilled branzino, tomato and anchovy bread, eggplant parmesan pasta, and house-made gelato. Of course, we have to mention the cannoli cart, as well.

medusa-detroit.com

(313) 798-3498

644 Selden St, Detroit, MI 48201

Minneapolis's Saffron is the rebirth of a restaurant that closed in the mid-2010s, and it's helmed (once again) by Sameh and Saed Wadi. The brothers are sourcing inspiration from "The Encyclopedia of Palestinian Cuisine" — an unpublished collection of family recipes compiled by their parents. High points include beef tongue hummus, squash pizza, and the lamb chops. Plus, you're likely to find the owners mingling with guests, sharing family stories and histories about the dishes.

saffronmpls.com

(612) 400-8189

165 13th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55413

A shout-out from the Michelin Guide is a coveted honor, and it's one Maringouin earned shortly after opening. Lauded for its unique mix of cuisines, you never know what you'll find — only that it will be a funky mix of local and global. In addition to a drink menu that's above and beyond, you can expect highly recommended lamb chops, Gulf Coast seafood that steals the show, stellar curry-smothered shrimp, and sausage dumplings.

themaringouin.com

(228) 901-7004

604 Porter Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564

Chef Steven Pursley turned heads with his Menya Rui restaurant, and now he's opened Kishimoto Mendo. Scratch-made noodles remain the same, but this new venture has a focus on tonkotsu-style ramen. It's a meal that makes even the worst day a little better, and quiets your woes. Delicious pork belly swims in rich broth alongside eggs and veg, and the chicken wings are wonderful, too.

instagram.com/kishimoto_stl

(314) 932-7931

6394 Delmar Blvd, University City, MO 63130

When Sumac Cafe opened in Missoula, it was so new that a dictionary was offered to customers who might not be familiar with the Mediterranean dishes on the menu. But the Montana city was clearly ready for something different. Delightfully seasoned falafel is a particular standout whether in a salad, wrap, or rice bowl. Plus, the shakshuka is a hearty and comforting delight.

sumacmissoula.com

(406) 545-3466

111 North Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802

Anthem has been lauded as the kind of place Omaha needed. Ultra-modern and designed with sharable plates, stellar cocktails, and an ambiance that encourages guests to stay a while, it's where you go when you need some quality relaxation time. Global flavors delight, from the chilaquiles at brunch, to the Bangkok pork and crab rangoons.

eatdrinkanthem.com/omaha-location

(402) 507-4480

1205 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102

Helmed by Chef Kwame Onwuachi — who has earned recognition from the James Beard Foundation and the Michelin Guide , among others — Maroon is a Caribbean steakhouse with big promises. Warm and inviting, the atmosphere is just the start. Virtually every dish on the menu is a guaranteed win. This ranges from elevated comfort food classics like truffle mac and cheese to Chilean sea bass and oxtail fried rice.

saharalasvegas.com/restaurants-bars/maroon-by-chefkwameonwuachi

(702) 761-8888

2535 Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

The tiki scene is alive at Mesozoic Tiki Bar & Lounge. The spot has been winning the hearts of locals who're grateful they now have a spot for great drinks and a laid-back tiki vibe. Early reports from customers confirmed it's bringing something fun and unique to the scene. BBQ pork buns and pizzas are delish, as are the drinks, especially the piña colada.

mesozoictiki.com

(603) 204-5236

97 Main St, Nashua, NH 03060

The Coniglio behind Congilio's King of Pies is Nino Coniglio, a former "Chopped" champion who's also a member of the United States Pizza Team. He's taken home top honors at the International Pizza Expo and the World Pizza Championship, and anyone passing through Asbury Park should try his pizza. Pick up a Grandma or vodka pie, and you'll soon see why it's the best new restaurant in New Jersey in 2026.

coniglioskingofpies.com

649 Mattison Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Arabian Bites had us interested at the idea of build-your-own pitas and bowls built around shawarma and falafel. Add unlimited toppings into the mix, and we're so there — along with New Mexico diners. After this one opened, it impressed with its bowls and pita sandwiches loaded with ultra-fresh ingredients. Its hummus is fantastic, and it offers perfectly flavorful meat and falafel as well as endless combinations.

arabianbitesabq.com

(505) 821-1069

8100 Wyoming Blvd, Albuquerque, NM 87113

Daniel Humm is the culinary wizard behind the three Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park. He's now opened HUMM, where early highlights include things like a martini cart and a wood-fried oven that's right in the middle of the action. It's one of the most beautiful restaurants around, and each element works in harmony. Cocktails are top notch, and so is the branzino.

hummnyc.com

(212) 889-2684 

435 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014

The Story of Mi Cariño opened in 2026, receiving attention from the Michelin Guide for bold dishes, outstanding cocktails, and an ability to make every bite extraordinary. The restaurant's chef Héctor González-Mora even earned the Guide's American South Young Chef Award for the year. You'll find a beautiful spot with favorites including fun and funky tacos, delicious carnitas, and ceviche and oysters that are delectable.

micarinoclt.com

(704) 703-6679

1440 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28203

When The Landing Restaurant & Bar opened in Bismarck, it was heralded by some seriously positive press. There's something for everyone here, with hits like the walleye filet and the frybreads. The location is a stunning riverside spot, ideal for lunch or brilliant at sunset. The drinks are amazing, too, as you'll find a cocktail menu with margaritas, mules, and mojitos.

thelandingrestaurantbar.com

(701) 955-4569

1700 River Rd, Bismarck, ND 58503

You'll hear Rosy name-dropped as one of the best new spots in the country. At the helm is two-time James Beard nominee Vinnie Cimino, celebrated for taking Midwest comfort food and giving it a classy, approachable upgrade. Dishes are inspired by a swath of Europe that includes Croatia and Slovenia, and a focus on small, sharable plates. An ever-changing menu keeps things exciting, but the bread-and-dip plate isn't to be missed.

rosy.restaurant

(216) 785-9345

2912 Church Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113

Chef Andrew Black's Dougla Kitchen is a return to his roots. The buzzy Caribbean-Indo spot in Oklahoma City is a passion project for the James Beard Award-winning chef, and traces history through food. Immediate hits include dishes like goat ribs, octopus ceviche, and curried goat gnocchi. Black has said he plans on expanding the menu with dishes from other parts of the Caribbean, so this is a spot to watch.

douglakitchen.com

(405) 445-6273

100 NE 4th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73104

Nimblefish is one of the best seafood restaurants in the Pacific Northwest, and fans now have another opportunity to try the sushi from the restaurant's Cody Auger. His pop-up is now a brick-and-mortar spot — albeit a tiny one — and fans hope this spot remains a well kept secret since scoring a reservation might become a challenge. Still, it's a meal of a lifetime, with ultra-fresh seasonal sushi, and every seat offering a front row to watch the chef work magic.

sushifukami.com

(971) 339-2156

1128 SW Alder St, Portland, OR 97205

Danny Childs has a background in botany, a love of local ingredients, and the attention of the James Beard Foundation for his outstanding book "Slow Drinks." Now, he's opened Field Day, where the food is legit, too, as James Beard semifinalist Melissa McGrath is in the kitchen. Think tomato pie, lentil dips, pickle boards, and pizzas, plus predictably creative cocktails. 

fielddayphilly.com

(215) 703-9458

923 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123

Back in 2024, Rhode Island's Bywater got a James Beard nomination for Outstanding Restaurant, and now executive chef Luke Mersfelder has opened Kingfish. Excited press gave recommendations, the short answer is a simple one: everything. Local seafood and a raw bar are central and unmissable, as you'd expect, but just as much care is going into the burgers.

kingfishwarren.com

(401) 289-0209

54 State St, Warren, RI 02885

When Cheeky opened in Charleston, the city got a restaurant by the same people that are responsible for the Michelin Guide-recommended Husk. A special occasion sort of experience that's accessible enough to be enjoyed on any ordinary night, this is a place that hopes you'll stay a while. Cocktails on the patio can't be beat, and the seafood — including the roasted or grilled oysters — are tops.

cheekyrestaurant.com

(843) 589-1944

151 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

The Craft Chophouse & Lounge was a standout in Brookings, South Dakota, and 2026 saw the team expand with JD's at Trail's Head. The vibe is casual while the food is legit, and reviewers say the execution is flawless. Kick back with the highly recommended shrimp po' boy, while the funky cheese curds are celebrated by some for being the best around.

jdsattrailshead.com

(605) 692-4044

1130 Main Ave S, Brookings, SD 57006

Visit Sally's Stay Awhile, and you're going to want to do exactly that. Bursting with all the right energy and seriously great food, it's overseen by Josh Habiger and chef Andy Little, who have a pile of awards between them — including honors from the James Beard Foundation. Expect comfort food elevated into something extraordinary, from the tomato soup and grilled cheese to burgers and cookies.

sallysnashville.com

(615) 864-7885

611 Wedgewood Ave, Nashville, TN 37203

You'll find chef Emanuel Chavez in the kitchen at 1111, with a Michelin star tucked securely in his chef's hat. Opening with a promise to shine a spotlight on the cocktails created by some of the best mixologists around, the commitment has already earned a shout-out in the Michelin Guide. It's the best among area cocktail bars, and the food is outstanding, too. You'll find flavorful and well-portioned sea bass, wagyu ribeye tacos, and duck confit carnitas.

1111htx.com

(713) 393-7735

1111 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006

Salt Lake City's Brownstone 22 is joining the ranks of restaurants by established restaurateurs. In this case, the team is one that's also gotten James Beard attention for Felt Bar & Eatery. Now, it's turning out a menu that's a master class in decadence and seafood. You'll want to start with the caviar service, but the sky's the limit. There's elk osso bucco, oysters Kilpatrick, seafood towers, and top shelf cocktails.

brownstone22.com

(801) 692-0886

22 E 100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111

Leslie McCrorey Wells is way more than just a James Beard semifinalist – she's a wine expert, philanthropist, and shepherd who oversees several of Vermont's trendiest restaurants. That now includes Alimentari Cafe & Provisions, a spot that's what you would get if New York City's finest bodega headed to Burlington. You can — and should — pick up a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, and the paninis are rave-worthy, too.

instagram.com/alimentarivt

196 St. Paul St, Burlington, VT 05401

When we here at Tasting Table wanted the inside scoop on ingredients to elevate your bánh mì sauce, we went to Kevin Tien of Moon Rabbit. He's gotten accolades from the James Beard Foundation to the Michelin Guide, and now, he's brought a restaurant to Virginia that's big on flavors and wonderfully accessible. Chao Ban is at Tysons Galleria, and it's a fast casual spot specializing in everything from pork belly sandwiches to fish sauce wings, and catfish bánh mì.

eatchaoban.com

(571) 378-1687

2001 International Dr, McLean, VA 22102

Did we expect a sandwich shop to take the top spot as a best new restaurant in Washington State? No. But Louie's Deli has been getting a ton of press for serving sandwiches that are — simply put — artwork. The recipe might be simple (quality meat, bread, and care in assembly), but it's been called magical. The Italian is a standout, the meatball option doesn't disappoint, and you can get in a game or few of pinball while you're there.

instagram.com/louies.deli

401 2nd Ave S. Seattle, WA 98104

Nestled in Bluestone Gorge is the Mountain Creek Appalachian Cuisine Restaurant. It's part of a movement to make it clear that this oft-overlooked region deserves to be elevated to a rightful place among other regional cuisines. It's headed by chef Marion Ohlinger, who is known for championing traditional Appalachian foods. Here, that means you can try things like rabbit, and have your mind changed about what Appalachian food can be.

wvstateparks.com/parks/pipestem-state-park/dining

(304) 466-1800

3405 Pipestem Dr, Pipestem, WV 25979

Chef Somchock Sansawas went from a Michelin-starred spot in Bangkok to opening WELA in Milwaukee. The road was a long one, and it's fitting that the restaurant advertises itself as capturing an equally long journey, which spotlights the history and modernity of Thai cuisine. It quickly became apparent the dishes are as beautiful as they are delicious, from whole branzino to charred basil eggplant. And did someone say shrimp donuts? They did here.

welamke.com

(414) 234-4545

217 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202

You'll find the Old Timer Bar & Restaurant at the Trailborn Jackson Hole in Wyoming. Diners can revel in live music there, retreat to the patio, and choose from a selection of local craft beers. Plus, the food it serves provides a taste of the bounty offered by the state. This includes an outstanding elk and bison chili that's hearty and filling, as well as incredible steaks to go with unparalleled views.

oldtimerjackson.com

(844) 230-5525

400 Snow King Ave, Jackson, WY 83001

Choosing the best new restaurants based on a limited time being open was a bit challenging, so we looked for a few things beyond immediate impressions, sneak peek reviews, and press. We also looked for the restaurants that were helmed by chefs and restaurateurs with a proven track record — especially those that have gotten attention from places like the James Beard Foundation. We also considered things like restaurant concepts, and whether or not they were bringing something new to the area. Wine lists, cocktail programs, and tasting menus all played a part in decisions, too.