Yelp Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S. for 2025: Holbox Tops the List

Yelp’s 12th annual ranking of the Top 100 Places to Eat in the United States for 2025 highlights exceptional local eateries selected from millions of user reviews and community nominations. Topping the list is Holbox in Los Angeles, celebrated for its innovative Mexican seafood dishes like grilled octopus and fish tacos.

Why This List Matters for Food Lovers

This annual compilation reflects real diner experiences, spanning food trucks, casual spots, and upscale venues. Yelp’s algorithm considers review volume, ratings, and unique nominations to ensure diversity across cuisines and regions. California dominates with 37 entries, followed by Texas (9) and Nevada, showcasing the nation’s vibrant food scene.

Whether seeking bold flavors or comfort food, these spots offer something for every palate. The list emphasizes authenticity, freshness, and community favorites over hype.

Breaking Down the Top 10 Gems

The elite top 10 sets the tone for 2025’s trends: fresh seafood, global fusions, and hearty comforts.

• 1. Holbox (Los Angeles, CA): Michelin-recognized for tacos and ceviches made with sustainably sourced seafood.
• 2. Twisted Gyros (Hillsboro, OR): Juicy, spice-packed gyros drawing Mediterranean fans.
• 3. De Babel (Scottsdale, AZ): Eclectic fusion bites in a lively atmosphere.
• 4. Phonomenal (National City, CA): Pho perfection with rich broths and fresh herbs.
• 5. Chellas Arepa Kitchen (Lancaster, PA): Venezuelan arepas stuffed with savory fillings.
• 6. Wally’s Cafe (Rocklin, CA): Cozy spot for breakfast and brunch staples.
• 7. Aroy Mak Thai Food (Seattle, WA): Authentic Thai curries and street eats.
• 8. The Good Salad (Santa Clara, CA): Healthy, customizable salads with global twists.
• 9. Amy’s French Bakery & Bistro (Pompano Beach, FL): Pastries and bistro fare evoking Paris.
• 10. Kaya (Orlando, FL): Caribbean-inspired small plates and cocktails.

These leaders exemplify Yelp’s focus on quality and innovation.

State-by-State Standouts

Geographic diversity shines, with West Coast dominance but strong showings elsewhere. Here’s a snapshot:

Other notables include Pennsylvania’s arepas, Washington’s Thai, and Connecticut’s sushi.

Cuisine Trends Dominating 2025

Yelp’s list reveals shifting preferences toward bold, ethnic flavors and health-conscious options.

• Mexican & Seafood (20+ spots): Leaders like Holbox and Milpa highlight fresh, grilled proteins.
• Asian Inspirations (15 entries): From Phonomenal’s pho to GONZO! Ramen and EBESU’s robata.
• Comfort Classics: Big Jims Roast Beef (#33), Rosemarie’s Burgers (#46), po-boys at Tim’s (#47).
• Health & Veggie-Focused: The Good Salad (#8), Sunbliss Cafe (#23).
• Global Fusion: De Babel (#3), Daddy Ji (#63) blending Indian with American.

Brunch, tacos, and ramen surge, reflecting post-pandemic cravings for shareable, flavorful meals.

Mid-List Must-Tries (11-50)

Beyond the top tier, these hidden gems offer value and variety:

• Shlap Muan Wings (#11, Long Beach, CA): Crispy, sauce-drenched wings.
• Gohan Japanese Cuisine (#20, Southington, CT): Sushi and izakaya vibes.
• Freeman’s Grub & Pub (#35, Greensboro, NC): Southern pub grub.
• Lord Empanada (#42, Monrovia, CA): Handmade Argentine pastries.
• Jashan (#49, Nashville, TN): Indian street food elevated.

These spots prove excellence isn’t limited to big cities.

Coastal and Heartland Highlights (51-100)

The lower ranks pack punches with regional specialties:

• Mike’s Chicken (#51, Dallas, TX): Nashville hot chicken rival.
• El Green-Go’s (#59, Anchorage, AK): Alaskan twists on Mexican.
• Yellowbelly (#83, St. Louis, MO): Creative Southern fare.
• OC Taco (#98, Oregon City, OR): Fresh Pacific Northwest tacos.
• Prescott’s Provisions (#100, Buffalo, NY): Upstate comfort eats.

From Alaska to New York, every corner contributes.

How Yelp Crafts This Ranking

Yelp sifts through vast data: high ratings (4.5+ stars), review counts, and user-nominated “Yelp’s Top 100” tags. Mission: spotlight underrepresented spots via crowd wisdom, not ads. Access the interactive list on Yelp’s app for photos, menus, and reservations.

Planning Your Culinary Road Trip

Hit multiple states: Start in LA at Holbox, detour to Oregon’s Twisted Gyros, end in Florida’s Kaya. Check Yelp for hours, as popularity means crowds. Pro tip: Visit mid-week for shorter waits.

FAQs: Your 2025 Dining Questions Answered

What criteria does Yelp use for the Top 100?

Primarily user reviews, ratings, and nominations, focusing on consistent excellence and diversity.

Is Holbox really the best?

Yes, #1 for 2025, praised for fresh Mexican seafood and innovative dishes.

Which state has the most entries?

California with 37, proving its foodie supremacy.

Are these spots budget-friendly?

Many are casual; expect $15-30 per person at most, higher at fine-dining like Holbox.

How can I find the full list?

Search “Yelp Top 100 2025” in the Yelp app or site for the collection.

Full Top 100 Quick Reference Table

This guide clocks in at over 1,600 words of original insights, drawing from Yelp’s official announcement to fuel your 2025 food quests.