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Every day different chefs and food connoisseurs are pushing the envelope when it comes to creating and eating various foods. Whether it’s a foamy cheese or an edible balloon, people are using their creative abilities to bring fresh ideas to the table. If you want to taste these delectable new ideas, check out this list of some of the most innovative restaurants in the U.S.
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10 Unique Restaurants to Try in 2019
Somni
Los Angeles
Chef José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup wows the world again with this delicious tasting-menu counter in L.A. Led by culinary director Aitor Zabala, Somni gives diners a first-row look into what goes on in the kitchen. Customers get to talk with chefs as they prepare the ever-evolving 20 courses using modernist techniques, Spanish inspiration, and multi-sensory elements.
Alinea
Chicago
In the top 40 of the world’s best restaurants, Alinea provides innovative foods with classic architectural references. Co-owner Nick Kokonas works to constantly shift his menu and the look of the restaurant in order to keep Alinea fresh and trendy. Blending textures, flavors, and food categories, the Michelin three-star-rated restaurant is a must-see—especially for their green apple edible balloons.
José
Dallas
This Guadalajaran inspired restaurant serves modern Mexican-focused cuisine that is full of terrific flavor. With a focus on cultural roots and regional dishes, José strives to bring diners classic Mexican Style food that incorporates new textures and flavors. From salmon stuffed avocado to fried calamari breaded with chicharron, your taste buds will thank you for dining here.
Eatt Gourmet Bistro
Las Vegas
Michelin Star Chef Yuri Szarzewki regales Vegas citizens and visitors with a healthy dining atmosphere. At Eatt, you’ll find gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and organic options—all for a fair price! Although it’s considered a more laid-back fine dining experience, you’ll hardly notice with food that’s so intelligently put together. Five courses and delectable desserts will have you coming back for more.
Bad Saint
Washington D.C.
Co-owners Nick Pimentel and Genevieve Villamora, along with executive chef Tom Cunanan, make a flawless culinary team. America’s most popular Filipino restaurant, Bad Saint’s menu is packed with mouthwatering flavors; people line up outside the restaurant hours before opening. Their menu constantly changes, but don’t fret—the flavor is always spot on.
Junebaby
Seattle
Focusing on foods that represent his African-American heritage, Edouardo Jordan’s Ravenna Southern restaurant, Junebaby, is a one-of-a-kind dining experience. His ability to blend flavors and cultures into his food has made him one of the nation’s towering figures of Southern cooking. They serve everything—from jerk quail to fried pig ears, you’ll want to try it all.
Eleven Madison Park
New York City
Constantly considered one of the best restaurants in the world, Eleven Madison Park is currently ranking in at number four. A bit of a drop from their first-place position last year, this is still the most innovative restaurants in the U.S. Their tasting menu—8 courses long—is meant to ignite your taste buds with flavors you never knew existed.
Saison
San Francisco
Known for luxe, innovative French-American tasting menus, Saison focuses on the wood fire cooking of seasonal ingredients. Not only do they work directly with fishermen, hunters, gatherers, ranchers, and farmers to source incredible products, but the kitchen and dining room share the same space. This unique set up allows for a dynamic and intimate exchange with guests. Menus change each night, so you’ll also have something new to look forward too.
La Mar
Miami
Featuring the cuisine of acclaimed chef Gastón Acurio, La Mar explores the diverse flavors of Peruvian gastronomy. The view of the Biscayne Bay and Miami skyline only accentuate the intense flavors on their menu. The innovation changes traditional Peruvian cuisine into a fusion of textures and spices. Between the views and the food, you won’t want to leave this incredible restaurant.
Blue Hill
New York City and Pocantico Hills
Chef and co-owner, Dan Barber is the genius behind the cuisine masterpieces at these two locations in New York. With an emphasis on farm-to-table freshness, he makes every item with locally-grown ingredients. Barber incorporates beets, wheat, and a variety of vegetables—all of which are grown specifically for him and his restaurant. If you’re looking for healthy, flavorful dishes, check out Blue Hill.
