
Yelp Reveals Its 12th Annual List of the Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S.
Yelp Reveals, the go-to platform for discovering great local businesses, has officially unveiled its 12th annual list of the Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S., celebrating a diverse selection of eateries that range from hidden gems to established culinary hotspots. The list, compiled through an extensive analysis of user reviews and community nominations, highlights the country’s most beloved dining destinations—spanning casual food trucks, family-run diners, and Michelin-starred establishments.
A Celebration of Culinary Excellence
For 2025, Holbox in Los Angeles has claimed the top spot as Yelp’s Reveals best restaurant in the United States. This Mexican seafood haven, founded by Michelin-starred Chef Gilberto Cetina, has amassed over 1,000 five-star reviews from Yelp users who praise its masterfully prepared grilled octopus, ceviches, and fish tacos. Known for its sustainable sourcing and eco-conscious practices, Holbox has become a standout not just for its cuisine but also for its commitment to environmental responsibility.

“This year’s Top 100 Places to Eat list showcases the incredible diversity of American dining,” said Tara Lewis, Yelp’s Trend Expert. “From fine-dining establishments in California to beloved neighborhood joints in Missouri, this year’s selections celebrate the creativity of chefs and the enthusiasm of diners who bring these hidden culinary treasures into the spotlight.”
A Glimpse at the Trends Shaping American Dining
This year’s list reflects the broad culinary preferences of Yelp Reveals users, emphasizing the rise of regional specialties and international cuisine. Asian restaurants dominate the list, with 18 eateries offering everything from Cambodian-style pho at Phonomenal (#4) to inventive sushi rolls like the Dancing Vampire from Fat Salmon (#91). Latin American flavors follow closely behind with 15 restaurants, while Mediterranean eateries make up 10 spots on the list.
Diners seeking unique and authentic experiences can explore a diverse array of cuisines:
- Argentinian Delights: Lord Empanada (#42) impresses with its crispy, flavor-packed pastries.
- French Elegance: Amy’s French Bakery & Bistro (#9) delivers delicate pastries and traditional fare with a Parisian touch.
- Thai Street Food: Degthai (#28) excites with bold, aromatic flavors straight from Bangkok.
Regional Representation and the Power of Local Dining
Since its inception in 2014, Yelp’s Reveals Top 100 list has recognized over 900 restaurants across 400+ cities, significantly boosting visibility for small and mid-sized businesses. The 2025 list features winners from 23 states and 42 cities, reflecting the vast culinary talent found across the country.
- California leads the way with 37 restaurants, including the acclaimed Holbox (#1) in Los Angeles and the highly-rated Big Jim’s Roast Beef (#33) in San Diego.
- Texas boasts nine restaurants, including The Mayor’s House By Selda (#87) in Dallas, a cozy Southern-inspired eatery known for its warm hospitality.
- Nevada makes a strong showing with eight restaurants, such as R Town Pizza (#44) in Reno and Slater’s 50/50 (#77) in Las Vegas, renowned for its signature half-bacon, half-beef burgers.
The inclusion of cities across various states demonstrates the evolving food scene in the U.S., where diners are eager to explore new flavors beyond traditional metropolitan hotspots.
The Shift Toward Casual Dining and Affordability
Yelp’s Reveals insights indicate a growing trend towards casual, budget-friendly dining experiences, with 80% of the restaurants on the list offering meals priced under $30 per person. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing value and quality, favoring local eateries that offer exceptional food without the hefty price tag.
Notable budget-friendly favorites include:
- Chellas Arepa Kitchen (#5) in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, which specializes in Venezuelan arepas filled with savory meats and cheese.
- Cardelli’s Italian Market Deli (#45) in Riverside, California, known for its generously portioned, handcrafted sandwiches.
These restaurants demonstrate that incredible dining experiences don’t have to come with a high-end price tag—something that has resonated with Yelp’s community of food lovers.
How to Explore the Top 100 List
For those eager to explore this year’s selections, Yelp has made the full 2025 Top 100 Places to Eat list accessible through its Collection feature on the Yelp Reveals app. Users can browse by location, filter based on cuisine, and read detailed reviews to find their next favorite dining spot. Additionally, a press kit with photos and highlights of each winning restaurant is available for food enthusiasts and journalists alike.
The Data Behind the Rankings
Yelp’s Reveals data science team played a pivotal role in curating this year’s rankings. The methodology involved analyzing:
- The total volume and quality of user ratings.
- The number of five-star reviews.
- Nominations from the Yelp community.
- The engagement levels of diners within each restaurant category.
Yelp’s Community Managers also provided their expert input to ensure that the final list was balanced, diverse, and representative of the best dining experiences available nationwide.
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Journey Through America
The 12th annual Top 100 Places to Eat highlights the dynamic and ever-evolving food culture in the United States. Whether it’s a Michelin-starred seafood joint in Los Angeles, a family-run Italian deli in California, or an innovative sushi spot in Pennsylvania, this list underscores the depth of culinary talent across the country.
With Yelp’s Reveals commitment to championing local businesses and connecting food lovers with the best dining experiences, the 2025 Top 100 list serves as an invaluable guide for anyone eager to embark on a delicious journey through America’s most celebrated eateries.