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The Most Expensive Restaurant In Every State For A Bucket-List Meal That’s Unforgettable

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This is my ultimate list of places that’ll blow your mind (and your appetite)!

These dining spots are the epitome of luxury and flavor. All of them are offering a feast for the senses that you won’t soon forget.

Whether it’s the sizzle of a perfectly cooked steak or the ambiance that transports you to another world, these restaurants are worth every penny.

1. Alabama: Highlands Bar & Grill

Nestled in Birmingham, Highlands Bar & Grill is the epitome of Southern elegance.

Here, you’ll feel the gentle clatter of fine china, the aroma of freshly baked bread, and the unmistakable charm of a Southern meal. Chef Frank Stitt’s creations are nothing short of magical.

Don’t miss the stone-ground baked grits, a dish that’s as iconic as the restaurant itself.

2. Alaska: Crow’s Nest

Atop Anchorage’s Hotel Captain Cook, Crow’s Nest offers unmatched views of the skyline and mountains. You’ll be dining high above the world, indulging in fresh Alaskan seafood! They pair it with one of the finest wine selections you’ll ever find.

The king crab legs are a must-try. The ambiance is cozy but luxurious. The views alone make it worth the visit.

3. Arizona: Kai Restaurant

Kai Restaurant marries Native American tradition with modern culinary artistry.

The rich desert theme, the tranquility of the environment, and dishes that tell are waiting for you. The grilled tenderloin of buffalo is a showstopper—tender, flavorful, and unforgettable.

The charm lies in its ability to offer an experience that’s as educational as it is delicious.

4. Arkansas: One Eleven at the Capital

In Little Rock, One Eleven at the Capital offers a dining experience that’s both lavish and refined.

Picture the plush seating, a sophisticated ambiance, and dishes that are a feast for the eyes and palate. The seared foie gras is a standout, rich and expertly prepared.

Feeling fancy? This is your go-to spot for a special evening out.

5. California: The French Laundry

Nestled in Napa Valley, The French Laundry is the pinnacle of gourmet dining.

A serene garden setting, meticulously crafted courses, and a wine list that reads like a novel. Perfection!

Chef Thomas Keller’s tasting menu is legendary, each dish a testament to culinary excellence. It’s the kind of place where each meal feels like an event. A true bucket-list experience.

6. Colorado: Flagstaff House

Flagstaff House offers breathtaking views and exquisite cuisine. It’s the dining amidst the clouds, savoring dishes that highlight the best of local ingredients.

The elk tenderloin is a must-try, my personal favorite! Perfectly cooked and full of flavor. It’s intimate and awe-inspiring, making any meal feel like a special occasion.

7. Connecticut: Union League Café

In New Haven, Union League Café offers a taste of Paris. but with a touch of local charm.

You’ll be dining in a historic building, surrounded by classic French décor and savoring dishes that transport you to France.

The bouillabaisse is a standout, It is brimming with fresh seafood and rich, aromatic flavors. It’s like a mini Parisian getaway, right in Connecticut.

8. Delaware: The Green Room

This restaurant is a step back in time to classic elegance. Ornate chandeliers, fine linens, and a menu that reads like a greatest hits list of gourmet delights. A true classic!

The beef Wellington is perfectly executed and full of flavor. This is the spot to indulge in timeless sophistication.

9. Florida: Victoria & Albert’s

In Orlando, Victoria & Albert’s offers an opulent dining experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.

Picture a lavish setting, attentive service, and a tasting menu that elevates dining to an art form. The Japanese Wagyu beef is a highlight, tender and flavorful beyond compare.

It’s the perfect blend of luxury and magic, making any meal an unforgettable event.

10. Georgia: Bacchanalia

The Bacchanalia sets the standard for contemporary fine dining. They have a sleek décor, a vibrant atmosphere, and dishes that celebrate seasonal ingredients with flair.

The crab fritter is a signature dish, full of creativity. It’s dynamic and sophisticated, offering a dining experience that’s both modern and memorable.

11. Hawaii: La Mer

Located in Honolulu, La Mer offers a world-class dining experience with stunning ocean views. Imagine the sound of waves gently crashing. A warm breeze, and dishes that transport you to the heart of France.

Make sure to try their butter-poached lobster. It’s a standout, delicately prepared and bursting with flavor. The allure is in the perfect blend of elegance and scenic beauty. Ideal for a memorable evening.

12. Idaho: Chandler’s

This famous restaurant is the go-to spot for steak lovers seeking an upscale experience.

An elegant steakhouse ambiance, the sizzle of prime cuts of beef, and a wine list that impresses every connoisseur. You really don’t need more for the perfect dinner.

It’s sophisticated yet welcoming. A place where great food and camaraderie go hand in hand.

13. Illinois: Alinea

In Chicago, Alinea is a temple of modern gastronomy. Picture a dining room that feels like a gallery, each dish a masterpiece of innovation and artistry.

The edible balloon is a showstopper. Yes, the edible balloon! It’s adventurous and daring, pushing the boundaries of what dining can be.

14. Indiana: St. Elmo Steak House

Elmo Steak House delivers timeless steakhouse classics in a lovely setting. The aroma of sizzling steaks will win you over.

The clink of glasses, and a bustling dining room full of energy will make your dinner unforgettable. All that’s missing is the shrimp cocktail.

15. Iowa: 801 Chophouse

Situated in Des Moines, 801 Chophouse is a haven for steak enthusiasts.

Here you’ll find the upscale steakhouse environment, and menu filled with premium cuts. The selection of sides complements each dish perfectly. The bone-in ribeye is a must-try, rich and full of flavor.

It’s classic and refined.

16. Kansas: The American Restaurant

This restaurant offers modern fine dining with a nod to classic elegance.

A sleek dining room, artfully presented dishes, and a menu that celebrates the best of American cuisine. All waiting for you.

17. Kentucky: Dudley’s on Short

Dudley’s on Short offers a delightful dining experience with Southern charm. Just imagine a cozy yet elegant setting, dishes that celebrate local ingredients, and a vibe that feels like home.

The bourbon barrel-smoked salmon is a must-try. They offer a unique take on a classic dish.

18. Louisiana: Commander’s Palace

In New Orleans, this restaurant is a culinary landmark known for its Creole cuisine.

A historic setting is full of charm, flavors, and dishes that are as lively as the city itself. The turtle soup is iconic. Rich and full of depth.

It is capturing the spirit of New Orleans perfectly.

19. Maine: Fore Street

They offer a dining experience that’s both rustic and refined. An open kitchen will amaze you!

The menu celebrates local, farm-to-table ingredients. Who doesn’t love that?

Try the wood-grilled mussels. Smoky and full of flavor. It’s intimate and inviting, a place where every meal feels special.

20. Maryland: Charleston Restaurant

In Baltimore, Charleston Restaurant combines Southern hospitality with fine dining excellence. You’ll find warm, elegant setting and dishes that pay homage to Southern flavors.

Service will make you feel right at home. The crab cake is a must-try. The charm is in the perfect blend of elegance and comfort.

21. Massachusetts: Ostra

They offer an elegant seafood dining experience that’s second to none. This restaurant is in Boston.

Décor is sleek. They put a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, and a menu that dazzles with creativity. The paella is a standout, brimming with fresh seafood and flavors.

It’s sophisticated and stylish.

22. Michigan: The Lark

The Lark offers an intimate and elegant dining experience.

Picture a cozy dining room, a menu filled with gourmet delights, and a wine list that impresses every connoisseur. If you have never tried lamb before, this is a place!

23. Minnesota: Spoon and Stable

They are situated in Minneapolis. Spoon and Stable offers a modern twist on classic American cuisine.

A contemporary dining with dishes that surprise and delight, and a vibe that’s welcoming. It’s the perfect blend of innovation and tradition.

24. Mississippi: Lusco’s

Lusco’s offers a dining experience steeped in history and Southern charm. A historicplace.

Dishes here celebrate the best of Southern cuisine, and a vibe feels like stepping back in time. When you don’t know where to go, a trip back in time will do!

25. Missouri: Tony’s

 More than just a place to grab a bite! Tony’s has woven itself into the fabric of the community, becoming a beloved institution known for its warm atmosphere.

Whether you’re a regular who knows the menu by heart or a first-time visitor, Tony’s promises an experience that goes beyond just the food. It’s a place where memories are made.

26. Montana: Triple Creek Ranch

Montana: Triple Creek Ranch
© triplecreekranch

Imagine escaping to a mountain wilderness where luxury seamlessly blends with the raw beauty of nature.

That’s the experience awaiting guests at Triple Creek Ranch in Montana. More than just a resort, Triple Creek offers a culinary adventure that complements its stunning surroundings. Here, dining is a deeply personal affair. Menus are crafted around fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

27. Nebraska: The Grey Plume

Nebraska: The Grey Plume
© thegreyplume

Moving from the mountains to the plains, we find a sophisticated gem in Omaha, Nebraska: The Grey Plume.

This restaurant is a testament to the power of sustainable, locally-sourced cuisine. The Grey Plume is known for its innovative approach to contemporary American fare.

They are transforming seasonal ingredients into dishes that are both elegant and deeply satisfying.

28. Nevada: Joel Robuchon

Nevada: Joel Robuchon
© gucciikateats

 This restaurant is a bastion of French haute cuisine. They offer a dining experience that is nothing short of theatrical.

Every detail, from the plush setting to the impeccable service, is designed to create an atmosphere of unparalleled refinement. The tasting menu is a journey through Robuchon’s iconic dishes.

It is showcasing his mastery of classic techniques and unwavering commitment to the finest ingredients.

29. New Hampshire: Hanover Street Chophouse

New Hampshire: Hanover Street Chophouse
© sixsouthst

New Hampshire, home to the Hanover Street Chophouse. This restaurant embodies the classic American steakhouse experience.

They are offering a warm and inviting atmosphere alongside expertly prepared cuts of meat. It’s a place where tradition meets quality. Beyond the perfectly cooked steaks, you’ll find a sophisticated selection of seafood and classic sides.

Everything is complemented by an impressive wine list.

30. New Jersey: Nicholas

New Jersey: Nicholas
© njdigest

 Here, diners are treated to a modern interpretation of American cuisine. It is both inventive and refined.

Nicholas showcases a commitment to seasonality and utilizes fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that are both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. The restaurant’s atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated.

Dining at Nicholas is an experience that engages all the senses.

31. New Mexico: Geronimo

New Mexico: Geronimo
© geronimosantafe

In Santa Fe, Geronimo offers a dining experience that blends history with modern elegance.

They have a historic setting. Their dishes celebrate Southwestern flavors. The elk tenderloin is a must-try, perfectly cooked and full of flavor.

It’s classic and comforting, a true Southwestern gem.

32. New York: Eleven Madison Park

In New York City, Eleven Madison Park offers a world-class dining experience. It is both elegant and refined.

An elegant dining room, dishes that are a testament to culinary excellence, and service that makes you feel like royalty. All you’re missing is their duck, expertly prepared and full of flavor.

33. North Carolina: The Fearrington House

Nestled in a picturesque village, The Fearrington House offers a taste of refined Southern charm.

Expect an experience that combines elegant surroundings with expertly prepared dishes showcasing local ingredients. It’s classic and sophisticated, perfect for a special night out.

34. North Dakota: Pirogue Grille

North Dakota: Pirogue Grille
© Pirogue Grille

 Pirogue Grille is a must-visit for any food lover visiting the area. With a focus on local and seasonal ingredients, the menu at Pirogue Grille showcases the very best of the region’s farmers and artisanal producers.

The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere. With a commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing, Pirogue Grille is a leader in the local food movement.

35. Ohio: Orchids at Palm Court

As one of the premier fine dining destinations in the Midwest, Orchids offers an unforgettable dining experience. With a rich history dating back to the 1920s, they’re located in the stunning Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza.

It is led by renowned Chef Todd Kelly. The restaurant’s menu features contemporary American dishes with a French influence, utilizing ingredients sourced from local farms and artisanal producers. 

36. Oklahoma: The Metro Wine Bar & Bistro

For an upscale dining experience in Tulsa, look no further than The Metro Wine Bar & Bistro.

With a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, The Metro is an ideal spot for both special occasions and everyday dining. The menu features a wide variety of creative, flavorful dishes. They range from seafood and steak to pasta and small plates. All made with the highest quality ingredients.

37. Oregon: Le Pigeon

It is one of the most acclaimed restaurants in Portland. Le Pigeon has earned a reputation for its innovative, creative, and mouthwatering cuisine.

Led by Chef Gabriel Rucker, the restaurant offers a constantly changing menu. You can find bold, exciting dishes that showcase the very best of the Pacific Northwest’s seasonal ingredients. From their famed foie gras profiteroles to their delectable pigeon

Le Pigeon is a must-visit for any serious food lover heading to Oregon.

38. Pennsylvania: Vetri Cucina

They are located in the heart of Philadelphia. Vetri Cucina has been a fixture on the city’s culinary scene for over two decades.

This once intimate, upscale Italian restaurant has earned a well-deserved reputation for its exquisite, handcrafted pastas, they are using only the finest ingredients and drawing inspiration from various regions of Italy.

39. Rhode Island: Gracie’s

Rhode Island: Gracie's
© localmagazinene

Gracie’s has been a beloved dining destination since 1998. The restaurant’s elegant, sophisticated atmosphere offers the perfect setting for special occasions.

Their award-winning, seasonally inspired menu showcases the very best of New England’s local produce, meats, and seafood. Gracie’s continues to delight diners with its innovative, refined approach to cooking.

40. South Carolina: Husk

South Carolina: Husk
© eatdrinkplaycharleston

Stepping into Husk in Charleston is like stepping into a time capsule. But with a thoroughly modern sensibility.

Chef Sean Brock’s commitment to celebrating the South’s culinary heritage is evident in every dish. Husk’s menu is a love letter to Southern ingredients. They put a focus on heirloom varieties and traditional techniques.

The atmosphere is refined yet relaxed, reflecting the charm and history of Charleston itself.

41. South Dakota: Parker’s Bistro

South Dakota: Parker's Bistro
© parkers_bistro

In the heart of Sioux Falls, Parker’s Bistro stands as a sophisticated Midwestern dining restaurant.

This elegant restaurant showcases a commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients. They are often sourced from local farms. Expect beautifully plated dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients. From succulent steaks and roasted game to inventive pasta dishes.

Parker’s Bistro proves that fine dining can flourish even in the most unexpected places

42. Tennessee: The Catbird Seat

Tennessee: The Catbird Seat
© www.afar.com

This intimate, 22-seat restaurant offers a chef’s counter experience. They are allowing diners to witness the culinary magic firsthand.

The multi-course tasting menu is constantly evolving. It’s showcasing the creativity and skill of the talented team behind the counter. Expect innovative flavor combinations, stunning presentations, and a journey through modern cuisine.

43. Texas: Uchi

Texas: Uchi
© CultureMap Houston

With multiple locations including Austin and Houston, Uchi is pushing the boundaries of sushi and Japanese cuisine.

They take the art of sushi to new heights. Their menu is a journey of flavors and textures, ranging from delicate nigiri to inventive cooked dishes. Beyond the seafood, they excel at creating artful plates that are almost too beautiful to eat.

Uchi is a reminder that boundaries are meant to be pushed

44. Utah: Riverhorse on Main

Utah: Riverhorse on Main
© riverhorseonmain

This restaurant combines rustic elegance with sophisticated cuisine. It’s reflecting the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Riverhorse specializes in American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their dishes are flavorful and comforting. They are showcasing the hearty flavors of the region.

Riverhorse on Main is a testament to the fact that great food is best enjoyed in a great setting.

45. Vermont: Hen of the Wood

Vermont: Hen of the Wood
© Desired Tastes

A true farm-to-table experience! This restaurant embraces the bounty of Vermont.

They use seasonal ingredients from local farms to create dishes that are both simple and profound. Think wood-fired vegetables, hearty meat dishes, and innovative preparations of local cheeses.

The atmosphere is rustic and cozy, perfectly reflecting the ethos of Vermont’s food scene.

46. Virginia: The Inn at Little Washington

Virginia: The Inn at Little Washington
© innatlittlewash

Chef Patrick O’Connell’s Michelin-starred masterpiece is a haven of refined elegance. Here every detail is meticulously crafted.

The tasting menu is transformed into artful dishes that are both familiar and surprising. Dining here is an experience, a journey into the heart of Virginia’s bounty. Everything is presented with unparalleled sophistication.

47. Washington: Canlis

Washington: Canlis
© thesharkdaymond

This family-run establishment has been a pillar of the city’s culinary scene for generations. They are consistently delivering an experience that is both timeless and contemporary.

Known for its impeccable service and breathtaking views, Canlis provides a classic experience. The menu showcases the best of Pacific Northwest ingredients, prepared with precision and passion.

From perfectly seared seafood to expertly crafted cocktails, a visit to Canlis is a celebration of the region’s culinary heritage.

48. West Virginia: The Greenbrier

  Dining here is an elegant affair steeped in history. The restaurant, often simply referred to as “The Greenbrier,” offers a formal and inviting atmosphere. It reflects the resort’s timeless elegance.

The menu leans into classic American and European traditions. Some of the ingredients are grown on the Greenbrier’s own farmland. Diners here can expect impeccable service. It’s a truly special place to savor a luxurious meal.

49. Wisconsin: L’Etoile

Wisconsin: L'Etoile
© letoilerestaurant

This is a celebrated establishment. It is consistently named among the best restaurants in the Midwest.

They showcase the bounty of Wisconsin’s farms and producers. Chef Tory Miller’s cuisine is characterized by his inventive use of these ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect the seasons and the availability of fresh produce.

L’Etoile isn’t just about fine dining; it’s a celebration of the region’s deep connection to the land.

50. Wyoming: Snake River Grill

Wyoming: Snake River Grill
© Jackson Hole

This popular destination restaurant is known for its warm, inviting ambiance.

While the offerings are often rooted in classic American dishes, the local ingredients and globally inspired influences create a unique flavor profile. The grill’s commitment to local sourcing, along with inventive menu choices.

Diners here are treated to an experience that’s as memorable as the mountain vistas that surround the town.