Top U.S. Restaurants for 2026 Revealed
It’s that time of year again when we consider how to make 2026 better, and it seems Yelp has stepped up with their list of the top 100 restaurants in the U.S. This compilation showcases some of the highest-rated eateries, ranging from diners to food halls, all based on the feedback from the Yelp community.
Leading the pack, New York City stood out with the number one restaurant, Ci Siamo, located in Hudson Yards. New York did take the top spot in terms of individual winners, but Texas had the most selections overall, with a remarkable 17 restaurants earning recognition.
The ranking process involved various factors, notably the total number of reviews and ratings. This year’s featured cuisine? Italian. Ci Siamo not only captured the top position, but Yelp claims it’s an ideal place for anyone longing for a taste of Italy.
According to Yelp, their guests crave dishes inspired by the culinary journeys of Chef Hilary Sterling, particularly her famous rigatoni alla gricia. This dish, celebrated for its simple, yet rich flavors—sharp cheese mingling with cured pork cheek—is a testament to Italian cuisine’s elegance.
Interestingly, gricia is one of the four classic Roman pasta dishes, alongside cacio e pepe, carbonara, and all’amatriciana. For this favorite, Chef Hilary uses a special blend of peppercorns to ensure that the dish has just the right kick. “I may sound a bit picky,” she jokingly told Yelp about her meticulous approach.
And it’s not just the food that’s impressive. Many diners have shared their delight at the ambience and outstanding service. As one reviewer put it, “The food was extraordinary, the space beautiful, but the service really stood out.” They recounted a memorable wedding anniversary, praising how the staff treated them like family and catered to dietary needs with grace.
Another diner raved about the stunning atmosphere and the attentive servers, who made the experience even more enjoyable.
In the second position, we have Taste of Texas in Houston, one of the many Texas restaurants in the rankings. This long-established steakhouse allows diners to choose their beef directly from the kitchen, promoting a hands-on dining experience. Founder Ed Hendy emphasizes the importance of transparency in what patrons eat.
Yelp reviewers frequently remark on the quality of the restaurant’s certified Angus beef, often describing it as “melts in your mouth like butter.”
Rounding out the top three is NAM Kitchen in Gardena, California, celebrated for having over 1,600 five-star reviews and a consistent stream of patrons waiting to dine.
Other noteworthy New York establishments making the list include Lindastry Pizzeria, Charoen Krung Thai, and Gurume.
As Yelp analyzed the restaurant landscape, they noted emerging trends. There is a notable shift towards nostalgic family recipes and comfort foods, such as slow-cooked dishes that celebrate simpler ingredients. There’s also a growing appreciation for all-day brunch and café offerings, with many spots catering to late-night diners.
Top 10 U.S. Restaurants in 2026
- Ci Siamo, New York, NY
- Taste of Texas, Houston, TX
- NAM Kitchen, Gardena, CA
- Waffles and Berry, Honolulu, HI
- Comfort Cafe, San Antonio, TX
- Adela’s Country Eatery, Kaneohe, HI
- Broken Mouth, Los Angeles, CA
- GW Fins, New Orleans, LA
- Slackwater, Salt Lake City, UT
- Pep and Dolores, Cincinnati, OH
