New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey were ranked in the top 10 by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts. While Hawaii easily claimed the top spot in the annual food scene rankings, New York scored high enough to earn second place.
The study, which analyzed factors like restaurant spending, jobs, and independent eateries, highlighted these states for their vibrant food cultures and economic contributions.
"Usually when we think of a restaurant "scene," we think on the small scale—cities, or even neighborhoods," Escoffier said. "But that hyperfocus on the local level can leave out the broader culture of a state or region."
The Empire State excelled in restaurant spending and density. The study found that New Yorkers dedicate more than 41 percent of their food budgets to dining out, the third-highest percentage in the U.S.
According to Escoffier, New York boasts one of the most dynamic restaurant scenes. The state is supported by 68 Michelin-starred restaurants—the second-highest in the country.
Massachusetts secured sixth place overall, backed by a combination of high restaurant spending (40.97 percent of food budgets) and employment numbers. The Bay State’s emphasis on independent restaurants—more than 60 percent of its eateries—contributes to its unique culinary identity.
New Jersey came in 10th place for its diverse and densely packed restaurant options. The Garden State has one restaurant for every 24 residents and residents spend 36.76 percent of their food budgets dining.
Known for its vibrant dining culture, Jersey also benefits from strong employment numbers in its restaurant industry, highlighting the sector’s critical role in its economy.
"While New York and Massachusetts often get recognition for their food scenes, New Jersey's position in the top ten underscores the state’s culinary diversity and impact," said Escoffier.
The study considered seven categories, including population-adjusted restaurant density, the ratio of tourists to restaurants, and the prevalence of independent eateries. It emphasized that population size alone doesn't determine the vibrancy of a state's restaurant scene.
Here are the top ten rankings and their scores from Escoffier:
- 1. Hawaii - 100
- 2. New York - 83.23
- 3. Nevada - 82.57
- 4. California - 75.01
- 5. Florida - 72.14
- 6. Massachusetts - 51.29
- 7. Illinois - 48.33
- 8. Texas - 46.25
- 9. Rhode Island - 43.31
- 10. New Jersey - 42.04
Escoffier also said that while Rhode Island's rank may be surprising, the small state known for delicious seafood was powered by high restaurant spending, a large percentage of independent restaurants, and strong employment numbers.
You can click here to see the States with the Best Food Scene in 2025 list from Escoffier.
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