We tapped top editors around the country for what’s hot right now—and what’s coming in 2024.
In almost every facet of life, what’s in fashion is cyclical (see: skinny brows, flare jeans, clear liquors…). But when it comes to our ever-evolving palates—flavors don’t just fall in and out of favor. What’s new and now seems to only sate our unending appetite for the next best thing for mere moments, leaving it hard to fathom what’s next. But, lucky for us, regions vary on their timing and fervor for the newest flavor… each trend-setting city teeming with critics—er, citizens—ready to deem the latest “it” factor or passing fad.
As we look ahead to the year to come, we know no one has a better vantage point into the looking glass than city mag editors. So, we tapped a handful of top brass around the country in cities we’re oft compared to or chasing to help us forecast what’s hot right now and what’s coming in 2024. And in my convos with these six foodie experts, one thing’s for certain—2024 is gonna be a vibe.
Retro classics: “One of Dallas’ hottest restaurants serves sole meunière, lamb Wellington, and lobster thermidor. We’re partying like it’s 1965.” Clubby Korean restaurants: “All-you-can-eat BBQ… and bottle service. Kimchi… and bouncers.” Beer-flavored beer: “After years of pushing various boundaries, Texas breweries are falling back in love with plain old light lagers, pilsners and pale ales.” Small business bonds: “Most unusual of all, a Dallas bakery recently issued small business bonds. Here’s an interview about it and the actual bond account.”
Photo by Carly Cooper
Atlanta —Carly Cooper, Writer & Editor Atlanta magazine
Headshot by Lia Picard
Influx of omakase: “Atlanta has seen an influx of omakase restaurants—from Omakase by Yun to Brush. Mujō and Hayakawa were even awarded one Michelin star for their offerings.” Vegan en vogue: “From plant-based burger enterprise Slutty Vegan to Latin-flavored La Semilla, vegan restaurants have burst onto the scene.” Modern Mexican: “Modern Mexican is taking Atlanta by storm with regional dishes like squash blossom quesadillas at Oaxaca, creative cocktails at Palo Santo, and seafood-forward fare at D Boca N Boca.”
Photo courtesy of Amar
Boston —Rachel Leah Blumenthal, Food Editor Boston magazine
Local seafood, global inspirations: “An increasing number of Greater Boston-area restaurants are showcasing global cuisines using our beautiful local products—like brilliant new Vietnamese cocktail bar The Eaves or new upscale Portuguese restaurant Amar. Ember-grilled Maine lobster with Azorean pineapple and preserved fennel, anyone?” Fine dining: “Special-occasion dining has taken a much more casual spin in recent years. Patrons—particularly young professionals—are excited to pay top dollar for incredible food in crowded, energetic restaurants with booming soundtracks; zero dress codes; service that’s friendly but far-removed from old-school fawning hospitality; and flavor-packed, hands-on small plates to be dug into with friends. Special-occasion dining has taken a much more casual spin in recent years. Take Lenox Sophia—one of the highest-ranking restaurants on our just-updated guide to Boston’s 50 best restaurants. You’ll pay upward of $100 per person for an elegant and expertly prepared prix fixe menu, but the vibe is casual, like you’re in chef-owner Shi Mei’s own home.” Dramatic cocktails: “We’re a little in danger of leaning too gimmicky on this front, but a lot of recent additions to Boston’s cocktail scene are carefully striking the right balance: Craft cocktails with fun, over-the-top presentations are having a big moment here right now. Secret passwords, plenty of things on fire, garnishes bigger than the drinking vessel, hair-related puns (see: Boston’s appropriately named Wig Shop)… sure!”
Tinned fish: “Move over, ceviche! Conservas have become the ‘it’ appetizer, with briny options popping up on menus— from hotel bars to hot restaurants.” Nonalcoholic scene has gotten huge: “There are NA drinks on every menu; tons of zero-proof brands based here; and Austin is home to the country’s first NA bar, Sans Bar.” Restaurant bathroom decor: “Featuring custom murals, neon signs and even disco balls, these eye-catching loos all but demand a selfie.” IG-worthy cocktails: Beyond ’Grammable ’tails, “speakeasies are everywhere, shrimp cocktail seems to be having a moment and burgers in general seem to be everywhere.”
Photo courtesy of Tuk Tuk
Chicago —Amy Cavanaugh, Dining Editor Chicago magazine
Hyper-regional fare: “We’re seeing new spots open focusing on hyper-regional cuisines, such as at Thattu, which serves the food of Kerala, and Tuk Tuk, which serves Isan fare.” Sober curious: “Low and no-alcohol drinks continue to grow in popularity, and we’ve especially been seeing nonalcoholic wines recently.” Affordable fine dining: “Chicago is known for its fine-dining scene, and the past couple of years more affordable tasting menus have sprung up. It’s a reaction to the pandemic and the issues that restaurants still face, and it makes luxe meals more approachable for diners.”
Photo courtesy of Gallery Armada
DC —Jessica Sidman, Food Editor Washingtonian
Maximalism is in: “The TikTok boom, increased prices and pent-up pandemic demand have all converged to make dining out feel more like an event. The result is over-the-top decor, plus dishes and drinks that come with a show.” Food halls gone fancy: “Food halls aren’t just glorified food courts anymore. They’re home to Michelin restaurants and high-end omakase menus, and they’re attracting talent from some of the city’s top restaurants. The Square and Love, Makoto—which both opened in 2023—are two prime examples.” French food wave: “Maybe because it’s a familiar cuisine in uncertain times. Maybe it’s just another example of a cyclical food trend. But the DC area has seen a lot of French restaurant openings over the past year—from the refined regional cooking at Petite Cerise to comforting bistro classics at Josephine.” Everything’s a vibe: “We’re seeing lots of restaurants that are more about the scene than what’s on the plate.” Service fees everywhere: “In 2022, DC residents voted to phase out the tipped wage system that allows restaurants to subsidize the base pay of servers and bartenders with gratuity from diners. To make up for increased labor costs, many restaurants have implemented mandatory service fees, which can range from 3 to 22%. That’s causing a lot of confusion among diners about tipping expectations.”
They don’t call it the “Darling District” for nothing. Trust us—DC deserves to be your next getaway.
Fun facts: I grew up in Northern Virginia (aka spitting distance from DC). And while our EIC grew up in Raleigh, she took a hiatus to DC 10 years ago—living in Georgetown and cutting her teeth at DC magazine. So we know DC is so much more than the text-book version and decided it was time to return to the cap city to bring back the deets on what’s hot right now.
Sure, your perception of DC may not vary much from my middle-schooler POV—the epicenter of our nation’s government, filled with colossal monuments, museums, politics and an uber-diverse population. You’re not wrong—but there’s so much more to it than that. It’s also a lively adult playground with waterfront (and rooftop!) views aplenty, countless greenspaces and parks, some of the nation’s best chefs and bartenders (and food and cocktail concepts), cultural experiences, and more.
Not to mention the distinct DC neighborhoods—from the cobblestone streets (reminiscent of Charleston) and riverside eats in charming Georgetown to Dupont Circle’s super-walkable dining and nightlife vibes, DC is a city worth experiencing (again and again). But with so much to do, it’s hard to know where to start—so we did the hard work (ha) for you. Here’s your dreamy DC to-do list. And if you’re looking for an excuse to book that 45-minute flight (!) or make the quick drive up I95 sooner rather than later, DC Beer Week is Sept. 19–26.
DO
The REACH at the Kennedy Centerfor the Performing Arts
Playing off of DC’s playground identity is The REACH, the Kennedy Center’s first expansion since its opening in 1971. Strolling through the green spaces (pro tip: pack a picnic) was a sweet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, while glass-windowed rehearsal spaces allowed us to peep various artists in action. kennedy-center.org
ARTECHOUSE
ARTECHOUSE Renewal 2121
Art + tech (hence, ARTECHOUSE) collide at this buzzy boundary-pushing cultural playground. Upon entry into Renewal 2121 (on view through Sept. 6), we were immediately transported into an overdeveloped Tokyo 100 years in the future rocked by climate change (sound familiar?)—prompting us to think about our choices… and ideally take action. Next up, Life of a Neuron (Sept. 27–Nov. 28)—a must-do. artechouse.com
The Wharf
City life meets boardwalk thrills at waterfront The Wharf, which boasts a plethora of excellent restaurants, shops, hotels and happenings. Our top recs? Margs at Mi Vida, concerts at The Anthem, an Italian dinner at Officina (more info to the right) and, um, more drinks at Cantina Bambina (overlooking the river!). wharfdc.com
EAT
CUT by Wolfgang PuckWe have just one piece of advice for you: Order the wagyu. As a matter of fact, order all three of the wagyus (but especially the 2-oz. Japanese wagyu New York sirloin—arguably the best melt-in-your-mouth bite of meat we’ve ever taken)… because when else are you going to be able to eat steak at a Wolfgang Puck restaurant? wolfgangpuck.com
Officina
Our last meal in DC consisted of pasta and pizza (balanced with fresh salads and possibly one last glass of prosecco—because when in DC…) at Officina’s Georgetown location, the upscale casual and cozy sister location to the bustling three-story restaurant, market and rooftop bar at The Wharf. We can attest that Nicholas Stefanelli’s tried-and-true Italian dishes are the best way to fuel up for a flight. officinadc.com
Clyde’s
After walking several miles around Georgetown in the hot summer heat, local-fave Clyde’s offered the perfect perch for grabbing a quick drink and a snack. It’s just the type of neighborhood-friendly watering hole you’d want to stumble upon as a tourist—the affable service, food and drinks beg you to get another round (or two). clydes.com
DRINK
Baked & Wired
It took everything in us not to ruin our lunch with a cupcake, cookie or bar (or literally anything else) from this national treasure (aka hip family-owned coffee shop and bakery in Georgetown)—but we’re going to insist that you do. And you can’t beat a latte made with handcrafted coffee to jump-start a day spent adventuring the cap city. bakedandwired.com
POV Rooftop at W Washington DC
POV: You’re sipping a specialty cocktail (with names taking inspiration from political history, famous rumors and presidential quotes, naturally) high above the nation’s capital, overlooking the White House—not to mention such splendid sights as the U.S. Treasury Department building, the Washington Monument and more. Clearly, one of the best points of view (and rooftop bars!) DC has to offer. *Swoon.* povrooftop.com
Riverfront Drinks at Washington Harbour
We could’ve spent the whole day throwing back blended drinks at the Washington Harbour while taking in views of the Potomac River, Key Bridge, Kennedy Center and Roosevelt Island—but alas, there’s so much else to see and do! Still, while you’re there, go for a round at Nick’s Riverside Grill, Sequoia, or Tony and Joe’s. thewashingtonharbour.com
STAY
Lyle Washington DC
The plethora of Dupont Circle shops, restaurants and attractions at the hotel’s doorstep may tempt—but were a tough match for the opulent comfort of our calming neutral- and art deco-appointed rooms. Luckily, the unparalleled breakfast (also serving lunch, dinner and cocktails) at casually sophisticated Lyle’s is easily worth leaving the room for (how is an egg sandwich that good?). lyledc.com
Rosewood Washington DC
Tucked between M and K streets, Rosewood recently added and reno’d several adjacent townhouses—delivering guests the luxuries of a hotel with the privacy of an Airbnb. Our luxe stay in the serene, modern split-level townhouse, complete with posh furnishings, cozy breakfast nook, private patio and futuristic toilet (seriously, it knows when you are entering the room and self-cleans)—all in the oasis that is Georgetown (just steps from riverfront bevs or endless primo retail and restos)—made us never want to leave. rosewoodhotels.com
Riggs Washington DC
Riggs’ Ida McKinley-Inspired First Lady Suite
Set in the former home of the Riggs National Bank in Penn Quarter, the ever-opulent Riggs is a must-stay. (And spring for one of the four First Lady suites! Our pick: the pretty-in-pink Ida McKinley version.) Besides being the ideal atmosphere for popping bottles, you’d be remiss not to toast your trip in the super-hip subterranean cocktail bar (Silver Lyan) before a fab dinner at Café Riggs. riggsdc.com
WEB EXCLUSIVE Last night in DC, after President Trump addressed his supporters at the Ellipse and pledged to “never concede” to the 2020 election, a large group of rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol building. Police barricades were broken, violence and assault ensued, monuments were defaced, and many Trump supporters were able to break into the Capitol building, armed with various weapons. Four people died and over 50 protestors were arrested last night and this morning. The events were unprecented and horrifying, to say the least.
Here’s a look at what our North Carolina senators and representatives had to say about last night’s events through tweets and interviews with other news outlets.
Senator Thom Tillis
I proudly back the blue and support law and order, which is why I condemned the violence that took place in cities across the nation this summer. It’s a national disgrace to have a mob attacking Capitol Police and engaging in anarchy. This is not what America stands for.
According to an article by WSPA, Burr said that President Trump “bears responsibility for [yesterday’s] events” and has fueled events as such by promoting “unfounded conspiracy theories.” Burr was also quoted saying, “It is past time to accept the will of the American voters and to allow our nation to move forward.”
Representative G.K. Butterfield
Butterfield retweeted the following tweet from Nancy Pelosi last night during the events.
Today’s shameful assault on our democracy — anointed at the highest level of government — must not deter us from our responsibility to the Constitution. Tonight, we will move forward with the certification of President-elect Joe Biden’s election.
Ross tweeted about the election and included a statement concerning last night’s events at the Capitol.
The peaceful transition of power is a core tenet of our democracy and one that we, the people, have always respected. Today’s dangerous events, incited by hate and misinformation from the highest levels, are heartbreaking and wrong. They have no place in our political discourse.
Foxx tweeted “The People’s House will not bend to mob rule and we will not abdicate our Constitutional duties” and released a full statement on her website.
Representative Kathy Manning
CBS 17 reported the following quote from Manning and called for President Trump to be removed from office immediately.
“President Trump invited violent rioters to the U.S. Capitol and encouraged the mob to breach the Capitol building and attempt a coup,” Manning said. “This seditious act comes just days after he was caught on tape soliciting election fraud in the state of Georgia. He must be removed from office immediately.”
Representative David Rouzer
2/2 This is not who we are as a nation. A vigorous debate and differences of opinion should never — ever — be an excuse for lawlessness and violence. Praying for our Capitol Police, other law enforcement personnel and those injured today.
Hudson sent out the following tweet with a link to his full statement on last night’s events.
We cannot move forward if we accept violence we witnessed this summer in cities & today in the Capitol as the new normal for resolving differences. We must come together, condemn violence of any kind, and heal this nation. Full statement on today’s events:https://t.co/SfnveEJp5v
Bishop did not have anything to say about the riots at the Capitol, but did send out this tweet concerning the election.
Democrats’ attack on our elections was not minor or sporadic. It was coordinated & widespread.
The burden of proof is on the Democrats in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Michigan & Georgia. I will be not be voting to affirm Presidential election results in those states.
