Top 5 Southern Towns Every Food Lover Must Visit

USA TODAY
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The American South is renowned for its soulful music, rich traditions, and, above all, its irreplaceable food. From smoky barbecue pits and flaky biscuits to decadent gumbos and homemade pies, every small town in the The South shares its story through flavor. So, if you’re a food enthusiast keen on looking beyond bright city lights, here are five foodie towns you just can’t miss.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston combines traditional charm with a contemporary dining scene that has brought it to prominence as a top food destination. Its dedication to keeping Southern cooking in the tradition while welcoming innovation sets it apart.

What to Try:

Shrimp and grits at Husk
Buttermilk fried chicken at Poogan’s Porch
She-crab soup at 82 Queen

Don’t Miss:

Visit the Charleston City Market for locally made treats and low country flavors. Also, take a food tour through the historic district—you’ll not only eat but also learn the stories behind the dishes.

Asheville, North Carolina

This artsy mountain town is the perfect mix of farm-to-table freshness and Southern comfort food. Asheville’s chefs pride themselves on sourcing locally, and you’ll find inventive dishes around every corner.

What to Try:

Biscuit sandwiches at Biscuit Head
BBQ pulled pork at 12 Bones Smokehouse.
Seasonal offerings at The Market Place

Don’t Miss:
Accompany your meals with craft beer from any of Asheville’s numerous microbreweries. The town has been officially designated as “Beer City USA” more than once.

Lafayette, Louisiana

Lafayette is the Cajun and Creole food heart. It’s here that meals are a celebration, and the plates are full of spices, culture, and soul. It’s a smaller city with a big personality and even bigger flavors.

Must-Trys:

Crawfish étouffée at Prejean’s Restaurant
Boudin balls at Johnson’s Boucanière
Beignets and coffee at The French Press

Don’t Miss:

Time your visit during a food festival such as the Festivals Acadiens et Créoles in October. You’ll have music, dancing, and plenty of traditional fare in one setting.

Ontario Culinary
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Oxford, Mississippi

Oxford is a literary college town that also dishes up some of the South’s most thrilling food. Oxford’s cuisine pairs Southern heritage with high-end techniques, all served with good old-fashioned hospitality.

What to Try:

Fried catfish and hush puppies at Ajax Diner
High Southern cuisine at City Grocery
Bourbon pecan pie at Bouré

Don’t Miss:

Walk around the town square after supper, and pop into the legendary Square Books for a bit of southern tale-telling after a good meal.

Savannah, Georgia

Why Foodies Love It:

With Spanish moss, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture, Savannah’s beauty is unbeatable—and neither is its cuisine. From classic Southern food to seafood along the coast, Savannah has it all.

What to Try:

Fried green tomatoes at The Grey
Pimento cheese dip at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room
Pralines at River Street Sweets

Don’t Miss:

Go on a ghost and food tour; trust us, it’s a thing. Nosh on tasty bites while learning about Savannah’s ghostly history.

Conclusion
Whether it’s the warm crackle of fried chicken, the spicy burn of Cajun sausage, or the light sweetness of a beignet, the South not just satisfies your hunger, but it satisfies your soul. The five towns provide more than great food; they provide a rich experience of Southern culture, artistry, and fellowship.