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Some restaurants do more than just serve great food. They earn a moment in the spotlight and make their way onto your screen.
Whether it is a chef driven drama or a food travel show, these spots have become destinations for fans and food lovers alike. From classic diners to upscale icons, here are ten TV featured restaurants you will want to experience in person.
Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City
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Featured on Man v. Food and When Harry Met Sally, this iconic deli is more than just a movie reference. Known for its mile high pastrami sandwiches and old school counter service, it offers a taste of authentic New York that television just cannot fully capture.
Franklin Barbecue in Austin
Franklin Barbecue has shown up on No Reservations and BBQ Pitmasters, and it is worth the long lines. The brisket is fall apart tender with perfectly smoky bark. It is a rite of passage for foodies and proof that patience pays off when it comes to barbecue.
The Varsity in Atlanta
This fast food institution has been featured on The Best Thing I Ever Ate and Food Paradise. Famous for its chili dogs and fried pies, The Varsity offers nostalgic charm and Southern comfort all in one place. Just walk up to the counter and order like a local.
Commander’s Palace in New Orleans
As seen on Top Chef and Emeril Live, Commander’s Palace is the essence of New Orleans dining. The jazz brunches, turtle soup, and warm hospitality have made it a must visit. It mixes old world elegance with bold Creole flavors you will not find anywhere else.
Tony’s Baltimore Grill in Atlantic City
This late night pizzeria and bar showed up on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives and still keeps its retro feel alive. Locals come for the affordable pies and vintage booth seating. It is the kind of place that feels stuck in time in the best way.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria in Chicago
Lou Malnati’s has earned love on shows like Chicago Fire and Ugly Delicious. This deep dish legend serves buttery crusts, layers of cheese, and chunky tomato sauce. For a true Chicago experience, it is the kind of pizza that turns skeptics into lifelong fans.
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Joe’s Kansas City Barbecue in Kansas City
Once a gas station, now a barbecue legend, Joe’s was featured on Anthony Bourdain’s Places Unknown and countless food specials. The Z Man sandwich is famous for a reason. Expect melt in your mouth meat and rich smoky flavors that are well worth the detour.
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Sylvia’s in Harlem
Sylvia’s has been spotlighted on Throwdown with Bobby Flay and Chopped. It is known for soul food classics like fried chicken and collard greens. The restaurant is deeply tied to Harlem history and remains a cultural and culinary landmark for locals and visitors alike.
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Puckett’s Grocery in Nashville
Seen on Nashville and Southern Uncovered, Puckett’s started as a grocery store and evolved into a Southern food destination. With live music and dishes like shrimp and grits or slow roasted pork, it captures the spirit of Tennessee in one cozy dining room.
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The Slanted Door in San Francisco
Michael Chiarello featured this modern Vietnamese restaurant on Easy Entertaining, and it has been winning awards ever since. Located at the Ferry Building, it blends classic technique with fresh California produce. Dishes like shaking beef and spring rolls are both elegant and unforgettable.
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These restaurants are more than just popular spots. They have become part of pop culture thanks to their television moments. Each one brings its own unique charm, flavor, and story. If you are looking to eat your way through American culinary TV history, this list is your starting line.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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