Chicago, New York, and Beyond – OpenTable Reveals the 2025 Top 100 Restaurants in America!

Published on November 23, 2025

As we look towards the future of dining in America, OpenTable has unveiled its 2025 Top 100 Restaurants list, a carefully curated selection of the best dining spots across the country. From the bustling streets of Chicago and New York to hidden gems in smaller cities, this year’s list showcases the immense diversity of America’s culinary scene, offering something for every taste and occasion. Based on millions of diner reviews and insights, the list highlights both rising stars and long-time favourites, all of which have captured the hearts and appetites of diners in 2025.

A Deep Dive into the Top Cities and Restaurants

This year’s rankings paint a picture of a dynamic and diverse dining landscape across the United States. Chicago, the city that leads the pack with 16% of the honorees, stands out as the epicenter of culinary excellence. Featuring spots like Elina’s and Daisies, the city continues to build on its reputation as a culinary powerhouse. Chicago’s local scene is marked by a balance of classic favourites and bold newcomers, indicating a growing momentum that shows no signs of slowing down.

Not far behind, New York, which remains a major player on the national stage, claims 10 spots on the list. Notable mentions include Don Angie and Le Veau d’Or, which represent the city’s ability to blend timeless traditions with innovative dining experiences. New York continues to be a magnet for food enthusiasts, with its eclectic dining scene offering something for everyone, from upscale Michelin-starred spots to more intimate, neighbourhood-based gems.

OpenTable’s Methodology: The Secret Behind the Rankings

OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants list is the result of an in-depth analysis of over 10 million diner reviews, reservation demand, and other key metrics like diner ratings and the percentage of five-star reviews. These factors come together to create an accurate reflection of the most in-demand restaurants in America, as determined by the people who matter most—the diners themselves.

The list goes beyond major cities like Chicago and New York to spotlight regional diversity and emerging culinary talent. This year, nearly half of the honorees are newcomers, underscoring the ongoing enthusiasm for fresh culinary experiences across the country. From Noblesville, Indiana to Winter Garden, Florida, dining excellence is spreading to smaller, lesser-known towns, proving that fantastic food is not exclusive to metropolitan areas.

The Appeal of Intimate Dining Spaces

One significant trend that emerges from this year’s list is the preference for intimate dining experiences. Many of the top 100 restaurants seat fewer than 75 guests, providing an intimate atmosphere that fosters connection and exceptional service. This trend reflects diners’ desire for a more personal, immersive experience when dining out, an aspect that OpenTable’s consumer research highlights as especially appealing for 2026. For nearly 50% of Americans, a cozy and locally-inspired restaurant interior style is the most attractive.

Regional Diversity: A Nationwide Culinary Journey

While Chicago and New York dominate the list, it’s clear that culinary excellence is flourishing in regions beyond the major metros. The 2025 Top 100 Restaurants list shines a spotlight on restaurants in Carlsbad, California, Great Falls, Virginia, and Noblesville, Indiana, showing that amazing dining experiences can be found in cities of all sizes. These restaurants represent a growing interest in local flavour and a renewed commitment to supporting smaller communities and independent restaurant owners.

Looking Ahead: Dining Trends and Predictions for 2026

The 2025 Top 100 Restaurants list is part of OpenTable’s larger effort to understand the evolving dining landscape, as showcased in the company’s 2026 Dining Trends Report. According to the report, diners will continue to seek out new experiences, prioritising fresh talent, regional diversity, and intimate spaces. With nearly half of the honorees being first-time inclusions on the list, it’s clear that diners are eager to discover new spots, both in well-known cities and in smaller towns across America.

The Full 2025 Top 100 Restaurants List: A National Snapshot of Dining Excellence

Conclusion: The Power of Dining Together

The 2025 Top 100 Restaurants list from OpenTable not only showcases the best places to eat across the U.S., but it also reflects the growing desire for connection and memorable experiences through dining. From intimate local bistros to world-class culinary destinations, these restaurants offer more than just a meal—they offer a chance to create lasting memories. As dining continues to evolve, this year’s list serves as both a celebration of the exceptional restaurants that have made an impact in 2025 and a forecast for the exciting dining trends we can expect in the years ahead. Whether you’re looking for a new spot in your city or planning a culinary adventure across the country, OpenTable’s list has something for every taste and occasion.