Bonji Hot Takes: Volume 66
Welcome back to the Bonji Hot Takes! We hope your week has been filled with success and happiness. The weekend is near but we hope to offer some value before this week closes and you are enjoying the time off. The United States has one of the most diverse food demographics in the world. From BBQ in the South to Pizza on the East to acai bowls on the West. All around the country, you'll be able to find something interesting to eat. We all know about the major foodie cities like New York and Chicago, but what about everywhere else?
The Top Underrated Food Cities in The USA 1. Birmingham, Alabama The Southern U.S. is known for its barbeque with some major powerhouse cities claiming the throne of best. It's well understood that Nashville, Austin, and even a few other cities are consistently ranked high for their food in the South, yet there is a new addition to that list. Birmingham, Alabama has recently risen to the top, securing a spot as a major food city. In general, this is stemming from the many talented, young chefs calling Birmingham their home.
2. Seattle, Washington Seattle's weather may be a bit dull, but their food is truly on another level compared to many American cities. Although well known for their seafood, Seattle is home to some of the best locally sourced ingredients in the country, if not world. In recent years, college graduates have been flocking their for work and have found themselves a gem when it comes to eateries. Endless talent and fresh ingredients mixed together is exactly what needs to be emphasized more in America, and Seattle is at the forefront of that charge.
3. Portland, Maine I have been to Maine one time in my life, and truthfully, I was blown away by the scenery and atmosphere. Although I didn't get to spend too much time in Portland, the city has been bubbling for the past few years. Of course, lobster and crab is an absolute must-try when in Maine, but the talent in Portland takes it to a whole new level. They have found new, innovative ways to mix what you think of traditional seafood dishes with different cuisines, ultimately creating masterpieces on plates. The unique culture and fresh ingredients are the perfect combination to make an amazing food destination.
BONUS: Cities in NJ That Our Team Thinks Deserve a Shoutout Asbury Park Brian Bongiorno has claimed Asbury Park as a food destination that has been growing more and more each year. With new restaurants, as well as some classics, Asbury is on the rise in New Jersey. From delicious sandwiches we know all too well to the Jersey Shore pizza that anybody in NJ is familiar with, you simply can't go wrong. Jersey City This time, the other Bonji Bro, Danny Bongiorno wants Jersey City to stand out. Right outside out NYC, Hoboken and Jersey City have been on the rise in popularity for the past decade. Hoboken is more of the college student, party town, while Jersey City is a diverse foodie wonderland. Although these may be generalizations, the food is undoubtedly delicious. You can find just about anything you're in the mood for within the confines of Jersey City. There's excellent Jamaican spots, Spanish Taquerias that will knock your socks off, pizza that is on par with the best in the country, and even Italian delis that are simply better than anything. Somerville Now for myself, I wanted to highlight something a little closer to home for us. Around our area, Morristown is the spot to go for college students ready to party on the weekends. There's excellent food there as well, actually some of our favorites are in Morristown, but it seems that it gets drowned out by all the rambunctious bars, and to me, simply not as underrated as Somerville. In my eyes, Somerville is the more mature version of Morristown. Sill having a host of bars, the much more tamed main street is home to some of the best food you'll find in NJ. Not to mention, there are breweries (with great food), sushi restaurants, classy establishments, and coffee shops all throughout. Nonetheless, Somerville is somewhere that you can bring your friends, or family, and enjoy an amazing night with some incredible food options.