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They may not have flashy signs, sleek interiors, or Instagrammable decor, but what they do have is unforgettable food. These unassuming spots are the definition of “don’t judge a book by its cover.”
From strip mall gems to back-alley taco stands, here are 13 restaurants that look like holes in the wall but have earned five-star reviews and a devoted following.
Marugame Monzo – Los Angeles, CA
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Tucked away in LA’s Little Tokyo, this tiny noodle shop might look like a casual corner spot, but inside? Hand-pulled Sanuki-style udon, rich broths, and a loyal crowd that swears it’s better than high-end ramen joints.
La Azteca Tortilleria – East Los Angeles, CA
Blink and you’ll miss it, but this humble tortilla shop serves up one of the best chile relleno burritos in the country. Don’t expect fancy seating, just expect to be blown away.
Uncle Boons Sister – New York, NY
This counter-service offshoot of the now-closed Uncle Boons offers mind-blowing Thai street food from a nondescript storefront. Locals call it a hidden, Michelin-worthy gem.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – Kansas City, KS
It’s literally in a gas station. But with brisket and ribs that draw BBQ lovers from across the country, Joe’s has five-star flavor with zero frills.
Pho 79 – Garden Grove, CA
This no-fuss strip mall joint has received national accolades, and even a James Beard Award, for its richly spiced, deeply comforting bowls of pho.
Casa Enrique – Long Island City, NY
Tucked between warehouses and residential buildings, this modest Mexican spot boasts a Michelin star but lost it as of 2023. The mole, ceviche, and enchiladas are next-level.
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The Red Iguana – Salt Lake City, UT
It may look like a colorful shack off the freeway, but this family-owned Mexican restaurant is a local institution, known for its incredible moles and consistent five-star ratings.
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El Taco De Mexico – Denver, CO
A basic exterior hides a taqueria so beloved, it earned a spot on the James Beard list. Locals say the smothered green chile burrito is life-changing.
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Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar – New Orleans, LA
An old-school, no-frills sandwich shop that’s been serving overstuffed po’boys since 1924. It might not look like much, but one bite says it all.
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Mariscos Jalisco – Los Angeles, CA
This food truck in East LA is famous for one thing: its legendary deep-fried shrimp tacos. No dining room, no frills, just perfect tacos and rave reviews.
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Louie Mueller Barbecue – Taylor, TX
Smoke-stained walls, picnic tables, and no fancy signage, but this historic BBQ joint delivers smoky, tender meat that’s earned national acclaim.
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Rangoon – Philadelphia, PA
Tucked into a quiet block in Chinatown, this Burmese restaurant is a longtime local favorite, with five-star reviews for its tea leaf salad and curry noodles.
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Bob’s Clam Hut – Kittery, ME
It looks like a roadside shack, and that’s because it is. But this humble seafood stop serves up some of the best fried clams and lobster rolls on the East Coast.
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The best food often hides in the most unexpected places. Whether it’s a restaurant with outdated signage or a tiny counter squeezed into a strip mall, these hidden gems prove that great taste always shines through, no fancy decor required.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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