Alex Atkind highlights the best culinary options in America's most popular cities. As a country that has been described best as a melting pot, there are a number of options and diverse cultures infused into the food nationwide. Join Alex Atkind on this journey from New York to New Orleans, where he shares what to try and where to try it, just in time for your next vacation.

1. FOODCities in America
best
ALEX ATKIND

2. New York
Specialties:
Restaurants:
Bagels, New York Style Pizza, Cheesecake,
Hot Dogs
Russ & Daughters - Bagels
Di Farra - Pizza
Magnolia Bakery - Cheesecake
Nathan's - Hot Dogs

3. Philadelphia
Specialties:
Restaurants:
Cheesesteak, Pretzels, Water Ice, Gelato
Ishkabibbles - Cheesesteak
Philly Pretzel Factory - Pretzels
Fred's - Water Ice
Capogiro - Gelato
Photo: Phil Denton

4. Chicago
Specialties:
Restaurants:
Italian Beef, Chicago Style Pizza, Chicago
Dogs, Popcorn
Al's- Italian Beef
Giordano's - Pizza
Franks N' Dawgs - Hot Dogs
Garrett - Popcorn
Photo: Arnold Inuyaki

5. New Orleans
Specialties:
Restaurants:
Gumbo, Beignets, Po-Boys, Red Beans & Rice
Dooky Chase - Gumbo
Cafe Du Monde - Beignets
Johnny's - Po - Boys
Red Beans & Rice - Mother's
Photo: jons2/Flickr

6. St. Louis
Specialties:
Restaurants:
Ribs, Gooey Butter Cake, Toasted Ravioli , St.
Paul Sandwich
Andre's - Ribs
Missouri Bakery Company - Gooey Butter
Cake
Kemoll's - Toasted Ravioli
Delmar Chop Suey - St. Paul Sandwich
Photo: Kimberly Vardeman

7. Visit
My Food Blog
www.AlexAtkind.com