Summer is right around the corner, and whether you’re planning on working, taking on an internship, or returning home for some much needed R&R, squeezing in a trip with your closest friends is a must. With so many exciting start-up businesses emerging with the hottest food trends, it’s hard to know where to start. To help with the planning, I consulted with friends from school that come from all around the country and compiled a list of everyone’s go-to spots. Without further adieu, here are the top food trips you HAVE to take this summer.
- Prince Street Pizza
If you’ve ever been in the Nolitaneighborhood, you know that the line for Price Street Pizza is typically down the block, and it’s no shocker why. Continuously named one of the top slices in New York City, pizza lovers flock to this hot spot for the infamous square shaped slice, the Spicy Spring, a square pie topped with spicy fra diavolotomato sauce, mozzarella, and crispy pepperonis. If you’re in New York this summer, take my word and make sure to add this to your to-do list. You can thank me later.
- Khachapuriat Compass Rose
What’s better than gooey cheese in the center of fresh baked dough, topped with butter? Nothing. If you are staying in D.C. this summer, check out Compass Rose for some delicious Khachapuri, a traditional Georgian Dish comprised of leavened dough that is used to rip off and dip into a cheesy center topped with an egg. Not only well known for their food, Compass Rose also boasts eclectic interior: brick walls, bright furniture, and the additional options of eating under a Bedouin tent! If you’re looking for a unique dining experience this summer, definitely make your way to Compass Rose.
MonahansClam Shack
For those craving a trip to the beach and a much needed lobster roll, start planning your trip to Monahansin Narragansett. Recommended to me by locals, Monahan’sis the perfect, no-frills beach-side spot for the bestclamcakes, chowder, fish & chips, lobster and fried clams! If you’re on the East Coast, grab a friend and start planning your road trip to Rhode Island, I promise you won’t regret it.
4. Voodoo donuts
Calling all donut lovers, up next is the infamous Voodoo donuts in Portland, Oregon. You’ve almost certainly seen this spot all over social media with its imaginative donuts, eclectic interior, and iconic pink boxes featuring photos of Voodoo priests: A combination setting them apart from most donut shops. If you’re never been to Oregon and want to try some quirky creations like the Memphis Mafia Fritter, the Tangfasticdonut, or the Miami Vice Berry, Voodoo donuts is for you.
5. Jon and Vinny’s
The next suggestion is courtesy of my West Coast friends at school that rave about Jon and Vinny’sItalian Restaurant. With a sea of options, everyone still seems to flock to this neighborhood favorite which boasts a minimalist interior and delicious italianfood. If you’re in LA this summer, make sure to stop here and order the spicy fusillivodka, the LA woman pizza, Mozzarella sticks, and the Gem lettuce salad. These cult favorites are both beautiful to look at AND worth the calories.
6. PubbellySushi
If you’re looking for an unforgettable trip complete with sparkling beaches, exciting nightlife and delicious food, look no further than Miami, Florida. I spent almost every spring break here with friends and family, and the one spot we always seemed to return to was PubbellySushi. Fresh fish, unique rolls, exotic platters and great service make this restaurant stand above competitors. If you’re a fan of seafood, make sure to order the spicy tuna crispy rice with truffle oil and the butter crab roll with Ponzusauce. Nothing beats it.
7. Lou Malnati’s
Pizza: a staple in most of our late-night food escapades and arguably man’s greatest creation. While perfect in its simple slice form, pizza gets a complete makeover into deep dish perfection at Lou Malnati’sin Chicago, Illinois. This infamous Deep Dish pizza restaurant has remained true to its original recipe since 1971 when Lou Malnati’sdoors first opened. Flaky, buttery crust, filled with an exclusive sausage blend, vine ripened plum tomatoes, and wisconsincheese creates a dining experience unlike any other.
8. Ferris Acres Creamery
Last but not least, my biased choice of the best ice cream on the East Coast: Ferris Acres Creamery in Newtown, Connecticut. This quaint, family-owned seasonal farm stand serves homemade ice creams before a backdrop of herding cows. If that doesn’t scream freshness, I don’t know what does. The creamery surely lives up to the hype, boasting flavors such as Elvis Dream (Vanilla ice cream with peanut butter, banana pieces, and dark chocolate chunks), Coo-Coo Cashew (Vanilla ice cream with caramel swirls, dark chocolate chunks and pieces of toasted, salted cashews) and Banana cream pie. If you’re an ice cream fanatic, add this spot to your summer bucket list.