Introduction
The vast American landscape unfolds in a mesmerizing tapestry of rolling hills, sun-drenched plains, and bustling cityscapes. And there’s no better way to experience this than from the open road. Imagine the wind in your hair, the endless horizon stretching before you, and the promise of adventure at every mile marker. But a road trip isn’t just about the scenery; it’s also about the food. And few routes offer a more diverse and delicious culinary experience than Route Forty, a historic highway that connects the East Coast to the West, weaving through states rich in tradition and brimming with unique flavors. This isn’t just about finding sustenance; it’s about discovering the heart and soul of America, one plate at a time.
Route Forty is more than just asphalt and concrete; it’s a living testament to the nation’s growth and evolution. Originally conceived as the National Road, this vital artery played a crucial role in connecting burgeoning communities and facilitating trade, a catalyst to expansion of food and restaurant business along its path. Today, Route Forty offers a rich tapestry of food experiences, from time-worn diners serving up classic comfort fare to innovative restaurants pushing the boundaries of modern cuisine.
This article embarks on a culinary journey along Route Forty, highlighting the best food stops, must-try dishes, and unique dining experiences that await travelers. It’s a guide for the hungry adventurer, a celebration of regional specialties, and an ode to the enduring spirit of American gastronomy. Get ready to buckle up, because we’re about to take your taste buds on a ride they won’t soon forget.
A Highway Through Time: The Historical Significance
Before GPS and interstate highways, Route Forty reigned supreme. Originally known as the National Road, its construction began in the early nineteenth century, paving the way for westward expansion and connecting the East Coast to the heartland. This artery fueled development along its corridor, restaurants and inns popped up to cater to travelers. As the nation developed, food along Route Forty evolved in step.
These early eateries weren’t just places to grab a bite; they were community hubs, social gathering spots, and vital sources of information for travelers navigating the unfamiliar terrain. The aroma of freshly baked bread, simmering stews, and sizzling bacon filled the air, beckoning weary travelers to come in and rest their weary bodies. Roadside diners, those chrome-clad temples of comfort food, began to dot the landscape, serving up heaping plates of classic American fare like burgers, fries, and milkshakes. The food found on Route Forty shaped the American experience and many restaurants still offer a trip back in time.
Delaware’s Delightful Dishes
Our culinary adventure begins in Delaware, where the East Coast charm is palpable, and the seafood is undeniably fresh. Here, the food on Route Forty reflects the state’s coastal heritage, with an emphasis on the bounty of the Atlantic Ocean. You have to seek out the local seafood, a journey that will give you a flavor of the region.
Restaurant Example: Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats (Rehoboth Beach)
While technically just off Route Forty, it’s a must-visit for any culinary explorer. This iconic brewery and restaurant seamlessly blends craft beer and innovative cuisine. Their seafood dishes are exceptional, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
Must-Try Dish
The crab cakes. These aren’t your average crab cakes; they’re packed with succulent jumbo lump crab meat and perfectly seasoned. Pair them with a locally brewed Dogfish Head IPA for the ultimate Delaware experience.
Why It’s Special
Dogfish Head represents the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that defines the Delaware food scene.
Focus on Regional Specialties: Don’t forget to sample some scrapple, a Pennsylvania Dutch staple that has found its way into Delaware’s culinary landscape. And be sure to indulge in some saltwater taffy, a sweet treat that perfectly captures the essence of the seaside.
Maryland’s Coastal Cuisine
Crossing into Maryland, the culinary landscape shifts to reflect the state’s deep connection to the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland’s food scene embraces the freshest seafood, including crab. Route Forty in Maryland is a pathway to delicious, sustainable, locally sourced crab.
Restaurant Example: Costas Inn (Baltimore)
A Baltimore institution for decades, Costa’s Inn is famous for its crab cakes and other seafood delicacies. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, and the service is always friendly.
Must-Try Dish
The colossal crab cake. Seriously, these are huge and delicious. All crab meat, lightly seasoned, and broiled to perfection. It’s a true taste of Maryland.
Why It’s Special
Costa’s Inn embodies the classic Maryland seafood experience. It’s a place where you can savor the authentic flavors of the Chesapeake Bay.
Focus on Regional Specialties: While in Maryland, you simply must try steamed crabs, a quintessential Chesapeake Bay experience. Grab a mallet, a bib, and get ready to crack some shells! And don’t forget to wash it all down with a cold Natty Boh.
Pennsylvania’s Dutch Delights and Beyond
As Route Forty winds its way through Pennsylvania, the culinary landscape becomes increasingly diverse, reflecting the state’s rich agricultural heritage and diverse cultural influences. Here, you’ll find everything from hearty Pennsylvania Dutch fare to innovative farm-to-table restaurants. Pennsylvania is not just cheesesteaks, it has so much more to offer in the way of culinary experiences, food on Route Forty included.
Restaurant Example: Hershey Grill (Hershey)
Located in the Hershey Lodge, this restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their menu features a variety of dishes, from steaks and seafood to pasta and vegetarian options.
Must-Try Dish
The chocolate-infused dishes. Hershey is famous for its chocolate, so be sure to indulge in some chocolate-inspired cuisine.
Why It’s Special
It offers a taste of culinary excellence in the heart of Chocolate Town.
Focus on Regional Specialties: Be sure to sample some Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, such as scrapple, chow-chow, and shoofly pie. And don’t forget to grab a soft pretzel, a quintessential Pennsylvania snack.
Ohio’s Heartland Hospitality
Crossing into Ohio, the culinary landscape transitions to reflect the state’s agricultural heartland. Here, you’ll find an abundance of farm-fresh produce, hearty comfort food, and friendly hospitality. Food on Route Forty in Ohio highlights the best of the region’s produce.
Restaurant Example: Schmidt’s Sausage Haus (Columbus)
A Columbus institution for over a century, Schmidt’s Sausage Haus is famous for its authentic German cuisine and lively atmosphere.
Must-Try Dish
The Bahama Mama sausage. This spicy sausage is a Columbus classic, served on a pretzel bun with sauerkraut and mustard.
Why It’s Special
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus offers a taste of Germany in the heart of Ohio. It’s a place where you can experience the rich culinary traditions of the Buckeye State.
Focus on Regional Specialties: In addition to German fare, Ohio is also known for its corn, tomatoes, and apples. Be sure to sample these fresh ingredients at local farmers markets or restaurants.
Indiana’s Comfort Food Classics
As Route Forty traverses Indiana, the culinary scene embraces the state’s Midwestern roots. Here, you’ll find an abundance of comfort food classics, such as fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy. Food along Route Forty provides a glimpse into the best of Indiana’s cuisine.
Restaurant Example: The Mug (Greenfield)
A popular stop for Route Forty travelers, The Mug offers classic American fare in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Must-Try Dish
The breaded tenderloin sandwich. This Indiana staple is a must-try for any visitor to the state.
Why It’s Special
The Mug represents the heart and soul of Indiana’s culinary scene.
Focus on Regional Specialties: Be sure to sample some Indiana sweet corn and sugar cream pie.
Illinois’ Diverse Delights
Continuing west into Illinois, the culinary landscape becomes increasingly diverse, reflecting the state’s multicultural heritage and vibrant urban centers. Here, you’ll find everything from deep-dish pizza to authentic ethnic cuisine. A stop at a classic diner is just what you need to experience the best food on Route Forty.
Restaurant Example: Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria (Chicago)
While Chicago is a bit north of Route Forty, no trip to Illinois is complete without experiencing the city’s iconic deep-dish pizza.
Must-Try Dish
The Lou Malnati’s deep-dish pizza. This cheesy, saucy masterpiece is a Chicago classic.
Why It’s Special
It’s the quintessential Chicago food experience.
Focus on Regional Specialties: Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and jibaritos are some of the more unique and diverse cuisine options.
Missouri’s Barbecue and Beyond
As Route Forty stretches westward into Missouri, the culinary landscape begins to embrace the flavors of the Southwest. This is where you’ll find amazing barbecue joints. Food on Route Forty will bring you to the doorstep of mouth watering flavors and recipes.
Restaurant Example: Arthur Bryant’s Barbecue (Kansas City)
Arthur Bryant’s is renowned for its smoky, tender, and flavorful meats.
Must-Try Dish
The ribs. The restaurant’s ribs are dry-rubbed and slow-smoked.
Why It’s Special
A legend for almost 100 years, Arthur Bryant’s is synonymous with Kansas City barbecue.
Kansas Plains and Prairie Fare
As Route Forty pushes through the heart of Kansas, the culinary landscape offers heartland comfort food, focusing on simplicity and agricultural roots.
Restaurant Example: Stroud’s (Wichita)
A Kansas institution that is famous for its pan-fried chicken.
Must-Try Dish
The Pan-Fried Chicken
Why It’s Special
This restaurant is a perfect stop along Route Forty for delicious comfort food.
Colorado Rockies Cuisine
As Route Forty enters Colorado, you will find cuisine that is unique to the rocky mountains. You will be able to sample hearty meats and locally foraged fare. Route Forty takes you to culinary excellence.
Restaurant Example: Buckhorn Exchange (Denver)
This restaurant offers a historical experience and a glimpse into Colorado’s past.
Must-Try Dish
Rocky Mountain Oysters
Why It’s Special
A truly unique experience offering wild game.
Utah Desert Dining
As Route Forty stretches across the desert, travelers can find pockets of culinary delights.
Restaurant Example: Hell’s Backbone Grill (Boulder)
Farm to table experience where food is locally grown.
Must-Try Dish
Navajo Tacos
Why It’s Special
Sustainable agriculture and local culinary experience.
California Coastal Cuisine
Reaching California, Route Forty leads to a wide variety of dishes along the coast.
Restaurant Example: Tadich Grill (San Francisco)
California’s oldest restaurant known for its seafood.
Must-Try Dish
Cioppino
Why It’s Special
Experience rich history and culinary excellence.
Tips for Route Forty Food Travelers
Planning is essential for a successful culinary road trip. Research restaurants along Route Forty, read reviews, and make reservations in advance, especially during peak season. Be adventurous. Don’t be afraid to try new dishes and step outside your comfort zone. Supporting local businesses is crucial. These restaurants are the heart and soul of their communities.
Conclusion
Route Forty offers a diverse and rewarding culinary journey through the heart of America. From classic diners to innovative restaurants, this historic highway provides a flavorful experience that showcases the nation’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual traveler, Route Forty offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure. The open road awaits, and the tastes of America are calling. It is time to enjoy your food on Route Forty.
