mary01+FollowHidden Illinois eats locals swear bySome of Illinois’ best meals are tucked away in unassuming spots you’d probably drive right past. From a fish shack under a bridge in Chicago to a Northbrook Italian joint with garlic bread so good it’s sparked marriage proposals, these hole-in-the-wall restaurants are the real MVPs of the state’s food scene. Whether you’re craving smoky seafood, a burger the size of your head, or Colombian comfort food, these places serve up flavors that regulars can’t stop talking about. Which hidden gem do you think deserves more love? Share your favorites or secret spots below! #Food #IllinoisEats #HiddenGems1949Share
Valerie Hall+FollowColumbus steakhouse hides Ohio’s best cheesecakeWalking into York Steak House in Columbus, you’d never guess you’re about to taste Ohio’s most raved-about cheesecake. Locals swear by it, and it’s not just hype—the creamy, tangy perfection and that golden graham crust are the real deal. The place itself feels like a throwback, all cozy booths and vintage charm, but the real surprise comes after your steak: dessert that steals the show. It’s become a not-so-secret local legend, and honestly, it’s the kind of find you want to share (but also keep to yourself). Who else has a favorite hidden dessert spot in town? #Food #ColumbusEats #HiddenGems1063Share
mary01+FollowCovington’s burger joint crowned a national gemHerb & Thelma’s in Covington just scored a spot on USA TODAY’s list of America’s best hidden gem restaurants! Locals already know their cheeseburger—stacked with pickles and onions—is legendary, but now the secret’s out nationwide. The vibe is old-school, the menu’s full of classics like brats and bologna sandwiches, and you’ll need cash for your order. It’s the kind of place that feels like a time capsule, right down to the frosted beer mugs. Who else has a favorite memory from Herb & Thelma’s, or another hidden spot we should all try? #Food #CovingtonEats #HiddenGems00Share
Annette Jones+FollowBaltimore’s hidden bar everyone’s buzzing aboutTucked away on the sixth floor of The QG, CLOCK Restoration is quietly becoming Baltimore’s favorite happy hour escape. No flashy signs—just an elevator ride and a clock-filled speakeasy vibe that makes you feel like you’re in on a city secret. The menu’s all about comfort food with a Baltimore twist: think deviled eggs with bacon, honey Old Bay wings, and a crab cake melt. Regulars rave about the welcoming staff and prohibition-style cocktails. It’s the kind of spot you stumble upon once and can’t stop recommending. Have you found any other hidden gems in Baltimore worth sharing? #Food #BaltimoreEats #HiddenGems00Share
Michael Alvarez+FollowDetroit’s best-kept shawarma secret downtownTucked away inside One Woodward, M&M Food Corner has been quietly serving up some of the tastiest shawarma in Detroit for nearly 20 years. If you work or wander downtown, this spot is a total game-changer for lunch. The chicken shawarma is packed with flavor and just $8, while the counter is loaded with fresh salads, pastries, and snacks—think mini bodega vibes. There’s always a line, but it moves fast. Heads up: you’ll need to enter from Jefferson Ave if you’re not a building regular. Who else has tried this hidden gem? #Food #DetroitEats #HiddenGems00Share
dianefrank+FollowDetroit’s best-kept food secrets revealedDetroit’s food scene is packed with hidden gems that locals guard like family recipes. From chili dogs at Duly’s Place to the smoky charred chicken at Taqueria El Rey, these spots are the heart and soul of the city’s culinary culture. Whether you’re craving creative pizza at Pie Sci or the comforting stews at Baobab Fare, each place tells a story of community, resilience, and flavor. Exploring these tucked-away kitchens isn’t just about eating—it’s about connecting with Detroit’s real heartbeat. Which of these under-the-radar restaurants have you tried, and what’s your go-to order? #Food #DetroitEats #HiddenGems00Share
Nicholas Lyons+FollowCalifornia’s secret coast finally opens upA wild stretch of Northern California coastline, closed to the public for over a century, is finally open for exploring in 2026! Just south of Bodega Bay, the Estero Americano Coast Preserve now welcomes hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone craving a true escape. Imagine five miles of trails winding through untouched grasslands, down to hidden beaches and tidal marshes teeming with wildlife. Free entry, picnic spots, and epic Pacific views make this a must for your travel list. What would you do first—hit the trails, search for wildflowers, or just soak in the silence? Let’s talk dream coastal adventures! #Travel #CaliforniaCoast #HiddenGems00Share
Michael Alvarez+FollowAnn Arbor’s best-kept fish & chips secretFleetwood Diner in Ann Arbor is the kind of place you might walk past a hundred times without realizing it’s serving up some of Michigan’s most crave-worthy fish and chips. This 24-hour, stainless steel classic isn’t about fancy decor or trendy menus—it’s about golden, crispy fish fillets and fries that hit the spot any time of day (or night). The real magic? The laid-back, sticker-covered walls and friendly staff make every meal feel like a local tradition. Who else has a favorite hidden gem in town that totally surprised you? #Food #AnnArborEats #HiddenGems00Share
dianefrank+FollowMidwest eats: Road trip for these hidden gemsNothing beats stumbling into a small-town spot where the food is unforgettable and the vibe feels like home. The Midwest is packed with these under-the-radar restaurants—think plate-sized pancakes in Ames, creative farm-to-table dishes in Des Moines, and pizza in Mount Vernon that’s been called the best in Iowa. There’s even a classic burger joint in Brookings and a Milwaukee brunch café where locals linger over coffee and corned beef hash. These places aren’t just about eating—they’re about community, tradition, and the kind of meals you’ll talk about for years. Which local gem is your go-to, or which one’s on your bucket list? #Food #MidwestEats #HiddenGems00Share
dylan15+FollowEurope’s River Cities You’re Sleeping OnForget the big capitals—Europe’s real charm is hiding in its underrated river cities. Think medieval lanes in Regensburg, dreamy riverside strolls in Metz, and the triple-river magic of Passau. Each spot has its own chill vibe, with walkable old towns, scenic waterfronts, and way fewer crowds. If you want a slower, more authentic Euro trip, these river gems are where it’s at. Who’s adding these to their bucket list? #Travel #TravelGoals #HiddenGems00Share