I’m planning the Los Angeles ——> New Orleans road trip and I need your help!
I think you know exactly where I should eat pizza, where I will find the best road trip snacks, and where I should drink coffee. ย I’m also open early morning diners options, and odd roadside attractions. ย I’ve got 1909 miles to go over 30 hours (3 days really…). ย I’m going to need to supplement my diet of gummy bears and flammin’ hot cheetos with something reasonable and caffeinated.
If you have any suggestions between Los Angeles ——> Phoenix/Tucson please leave a comment below with the name of hotspot and why it’s so great!
If you have any suggestions between Tucson/Ciudad Juarez ——> San Antonio please leave a comment below with the name of the hotspot and why it’s so dang cool!
If you have any suggestions between San Antonio ——> New Orleans please leave a comment below with the name of the hotspot and why it’s rad.
I’ll update this post as your comments and quotes come in so we can all share in the good.
I appreciate you in advance. ย I can only eat so many gummy bears… (cry for help).
(Your suggestions after the click-through)
The road to beignets is paved with tacos, barbecue, and good intentions.
Your Phoenix/Tucson/New Mexico recommendations:
+ ย “Lunch at little Cafe Poca Cosa, or dinner at Cafe Poca Cosa– this is not the “Mexican” food you’ll be expecting, but it’s amazing. ย Get the plato and try three things!” -Gina
+ “You must stop at Irmaโs Mexican Restaurant, it is true New Mexican food in a great place with great owners. Everything is good but the Chile Colorado and Sopapillas are amazing. My mom grew up in Silver City, NM and on all my many visits to NM, this is my favorite place. I know everyone raves about NM green chiles, but my mom and her family grew up on New Mexican Red Chiles and Irmaโs is perfect place for it!” -Michele
+ “Cup Cafe in the Hotel Congress, opens at 7 am. Everythingโs good. The bar is great at night too.” -Alex M.
+ “When you pass through Tucson hit up Time Market for great sandwiches on homemade bread, pizza, coffee, etc. Added bonus: itโs not too far off the I-10!” -Elizabeth
+ “Tucson and San Antonio both have Grimaldiโs Pizzeria, which is the BEST pizza. Itโs my favorite place to eat in NYC (the original one was under the Brooklyn Bridge!) and theyโve branched out to other places. The down side is that they donโt sell by the slice. You have to get an entire pizza. The up side is that youโll WANT the entire pizza, because it is THAT good!” -Lindsay
+ “Pizzeria Bianco for pizza. Their sister Pane Bianco has lovely sandwiches, and lux next door for coffee is delightful. Also good for pizzaโPomo, the Parlor.” -Meleyna
+ “For the best specialty coffee in Phoenix, come to Cartel Coffee Lab at 1st st and Washington. Iโll be working Wednesday and Thursday if you want to come say hi. If itโs too far out of your way, the other locations of Cartel are delicious as well.” -Amanda
+ “In Tucson: the best croissant Iโve ever had was at this little market next to the Amtrak station.” -Eva
Your Texas/San Antonio recommendations: ย
+ ย “While in SA, I would suggest doing breakfast at Mad Hatter’s, a quirky little tea shop in the King William District.” -Katie M.
+ “Check out Goode Company Seafood just off the I-10 and Gressner in Houston. ย They have wonderful Fresh Gulf Coast seafood. ย Don’t miss the Campechana – it may change your life.” -Pam
+ “Youโd be making a huge mistake if you didnโt stop at Chris Madridโs in San Antonio. Itโs a dive-ish place that serves some of the best, cheesiest burgers ever.” -Elisa
+ “Do yourself a culinary favor and stop at Dough in San Antonio. Their Neapolitan pizza is Delicious. Everything my husband & I ordered was a sea of wonderful favorsโฆ A Must on your road trip!” -Alissa, Molly, and Pam
+ “I would highly recommend that you go to The Granary at the Pearl Brewery. The food is AMAZING. Depending on the day, you may get good ole Texas BBQ that you order by the pound. Other days the menu is more upscale with a nod to TX BBQ. Itโs also close to the famed Riverwalk area of San Antonio, but itโs a less cheesy, more lovely landscaped area. You can ride on a river taxi to the touristy part of the Riverwalk and the Alamo. Just bring cash ($20-30) for the boat! I donโt think itโs that expensive for one ticket, but I canโt remember.” -Kim
+ “If you stop in Houston, pay Kenny and Ziggyโs near the Galleria a visit. Itโs an authentic New York deli with a huge menu and the best chicken salad sandwich and chicken matzo ball soup in the world. Check it out! Besides, you may need a break from tacos and BBQ.” -Shannon L.
+ “Lockhart is a just a brief jaunt out of your way on highway 10 between San Antonio and Houston. Itโs famous for itโs bbq. Even less out of your way is City Market in Luling. Check out tEXAS Monthlyโs review of the 50 best bbq joints, and hit them all on your way through our great state.” -Anne
+ “Definitely stop at Buc-eeโs in Luling, TX on I-10! They have a huge variety of canned jellies, salsas, butters, etc, as well as tons of jerky and kolaches. While you are driving through TX you MUST get some kolaches (itโs a Texas thing, and so delicious!). Buc-eeโs is also very proud of their nice restrooms.” -Shannon L., Emily Jean, and Heidi
+ “In San Antonio I highly recommend El Mirador for really authentic and delicious Tex Mex. Iโve eaten Tex Mex all over Texas and I think it is by far the best spot!” -Olivia
+ “Taco taco or rolandos super taco for breakfast tacos in san Antonio. The missions a bit outside the city are also pretty cool.” -Maddie
+ “Billyโs Boudin and Cracklins and Best Stop Supermarket, both in Scott, are probably my favorite places to stop but Donโs Specialty Meats works too. You can put it off until youโre settled in but once you want to go see gators I always use Cajun Pride in La Place, La. Real Cajun captains. See if you can get on a boat with Captain Tom.” -Matt
Thank you all for offering us such delicious road trip suggestions! I’ve added several of your suggestions above, but for a complete list please dive into the comment section below!
177 Responses
If you happen to pass through the tiny town of Clinton, Louisiana, there’s a cute little red restaurant called the Red Boot Deli. It serves po-boys and wraps, sometimes green or pasta salads or soups for their daily specials… the food is amazing (especially the Tomato Basil Soup if it’s the right day!), the atmosphere relaxing, and the service friendly. Truly worth going to!!!
IN DOWNTOWN PHX, I think you’ll love:
-Definitely Pizzeria Bianco… usually no wait or at least not much of a wait between lunch & dinner hours (2-5ish)- try the Bianco Verde ADD pistachios!
-Matt’s Big Breakfast for their “scratch cooking & friendly service”! I recommend the Western Sage sausage patties with the Hog and Chick, or the Reuben stacked tall on their fresh marble rye bread…
-Giant Coffee (same owners as Matt’s)… for their Honey Vanilla Latte or cappuccino, house-made croissants and fluffy quiche.
Little late leaving you a reply….but my husband’s family is from the Las Cruces, NM/El Paso, TX area. I conclude that the area has some of the the best Mexican food in the country. I suggest you take the “Old Road” between Las Cruces and the border of Texas, it’ scenic and takes you through a lovely pecan orchard and past old adobe homes. In La Mesa, NM there is a little divey place with lots of character and great food. It’s called Chope’s…family owned for generations. You should stop and have the chile rellenos. You won’t regret it!
I’m not gonna scroll through all the comments so if this has been mentioned forgive me. BIRD BAKERY! They have such yummy desserts!
I second all of the Pizzeria Bianco comments. It’s the best pizza (by far) in Phoenix, and it is probably the best pizza on the west coast!
If you pass through Artesia in southeastern New Mexico, check out the Wellhead, great food and drinks!
You should stop someplace in New Mexico- too bad you won’t be further north, or I’d suggest Santa Fe because you’d love it there. However, Ciudad Juarez is not too far from Las Cruces and Carlsbad Caverns—absolutely breathtaking and nothing like any caverns I’ve ever seen in my life!
In San Antonio, I would recommend Mi Tierra. They have been around since 1941, they are 24 hours, they have an attached bakery, the decor is overstimulating, and they have the best chicken mole enchiladas I have ever eaten. https://www.mitierracafe.com/home.php
Also, I second everything that everyone above has said about Rudy’s. Do yourself a favor–wash your hands, order the moist brisket, and eat some banana pudding. Best brisket ever. https://www.rudysbbq.com/page/home
Las Cruces, NM: great little coffee place in the old barrio district called Beck’s, next to La Nueva Casita restaurant: both are great, but Nellie’s (lunch only) has the best green chile in town, and portions so big you won’t miss dinner. Stop at just about any local grocery store to stock up on blue cornmeal, lots of chiles (you want them either dried or frozen, skip the canned crap) and local salsas. Zeffiro’s if you need pizza, The Popular if you need to sit down while you’re eating it. Great ice cream at Caliche’s, worth the calories. Get a Mango Dango with salted pecans (or swap them out for pistachios). If you can, go for a quick hike at Dripping Springs: our town’s not too scenic but the mountains are spectacular. Buen viaje!
Yo, flamin’ hot cheetos are always appropriate
I am possibly a bit too late, and this involves neither pizza nor coffee, but it’s very, very awesome for a culinary-hearted person. When you go through Phoenix, please, please, stop at Baiz Market. It’s the most thorough Middle Eastern grocery store I’ve ever encountered, where you can get ingredients you never knew existed, plus ones you may have been searching for for a while. Pomegranate molasses and date syrup come with high thumbs up. Also, their fresh bakery is ah-mazing. They make the best fresh sesame halvah I’ve ever tried (and I’ve tried A LOT), and their walnut ma’amoul cookies (semolina and orange blossom dough stuffed with sweet walnut mix) is off the chain. Please go. That is all.
If you’re in El Paso, L&J’s Cafe has some amazing Mexican food. It’s a dingy little hole in the wall that’s right beside a cemetery, but it’s always packed and delicious. They make a mean chile con queso.
For a good coffee stop in Houston, you should go to Catalina. It’s not far from I-10 and one of the top spots in Houston. If you stop during breakfast, their bran muffins are my favorite. Revival Market also has coffee, and a great lunch menu made from all local ingredients. It’s one of my favorite places to sit outside on a beautiful day (if you are looking to be out of the car for awhile!) It’s a farmer’s market-butcher-deli-coffee stop all in one. Chuy’s is a classic for Tex-Mex, and the best tacos are from Torchy’s.
When you get into New Orleans try Atchafalaya for brunch on Louisiana and Laurel! Best brunch in the city and they have a live band on weekends. Also, if you like bloody mary’s, they have an unlimited self serve bloody mary bar.
hey joy we just did a 1 month road trip from LA to NYC, stopping at grand canyon, austin, nola and then nyc. wonderful trip of a lifetime and i am sure you will enjoy it as well.
from la to phoenix, we travelled along route 66 and found 2 of the most charming cafes!
1. You can stop at Cafe Bagdad – really strange kind of cafe but you must see it to believe it. a little diner in the middle of nowhere but really crowded.
2. We also stopped for a snack and coffee at Kingman at Mr D’z Cafe – totally kitschy place with very great decor and staff.
We had great memories of these 2 places along the way to the Grand Canyon and I look forward to your road trip posts!
If you go slightly off I-10 near San Antonio, you can head over to Fredericksburg in the Texas hill country. It’s a little German village town specializing in wine. They have several vineyards, farms, and orchards where you can taste the local foods.
i’ve wanted to go to fredericksburg for so long because of Rather Sweet Bakery!
I guess the Rather Sweet Bakery has since closed, but I hope you found something you liked around the hill country.
Lunch or Dinner at Sammy’s Wild Game grill in Houston (right off of I-10) for delicious burgers and sausages made from bison, antelope, elk, venison…the list goes on! https://www.sammyswildgamegrill.com/
Oh! You absolutely have to go through Marfa, Texas! You’ll be passing right by it. Well, as close as you’ll probably ever get. See the Prada store installation (of course) and check out the Donald Judd collections there. You have to book a visit with a guide for the Judd art spaces. https://www.juddfoundation.org/visit_marfa
Oh, and Tucson has an awesome gelato place, Allegro Gelato. Killer!
I’m here to emphasize your need to hit Pizzeria Bianco. Awesome, awesome stuff!
This looks great! I’d like to roadtrip from New York to San Francisco. Enjoy! :)
https://www.offthenutshell.blogspot.cz/
If you have time, Carlsbad Caverns are well worth a short side trip into NM (very close to ciudad J) – truly spectacular and awe inspiring. Have fun & drive safe!
My grandparents spend some time in Tuscon in the winter and are total foodies. Vivace is their favorite restaurant there. It is high end italian and totally worth it! Frost Gelato is also in Tuscon and really good.
I second the recommendation for Goode Company Seafood in Houston. Their campechana is amazing.
I’m so jealous of your move! I’d move to New Orleans in a heartbeat.
Good luck with the move. I lived in Austin for while and would love the experience of exploring and eating my way through Texas again! I went to 4 of the top 5 rated bbq places rated by Texas Monthly and I still dream about them
I kinda feel like if your going to be in San Antonio, You should just stay with me! :) I will have eyes peeled for you while your passing through–and I’ll ditto those recommendations from above: Rudy’s BBQ, Dough, and even Beto’s for some great Mexican fare! Chris Madrid’s is good, but usually crowded, and so is Dough for that matter, so only go there if you have tons of time!
omg, this is so funny! I just took a road trip myself… but all the way to GA (from SoCal) & back! between LA & Phoenix, totally stop by Hadley’s in Cabazon (CA). Their date shakes are yummy (add your own nutmeg!), and the dining area is just pure diner kitsch. Love it. Plus you can stock up on nuts & dried fruit (The medjool dates are amazing) & they’d be pretty hard to find once you’re ‘back east’.
Between Phoenix & Tucson, definitely see the gift shop @ Picacho Peak. Just crammed with stuff.
Also, if you’re taking the 10 freeway, Love’s gas station/truck stops generally have good restrooms… and local color! Like, real gator heads for sale (TX & LA). Check my blog for more stops – posting them soon! :)
Best of luck!
Once you are settled in New Orleans, if you ever have a chance to venture up about 4 hours north to Monroe be sure to check out Cotton (www.restaurantcotton.com). Welcome to the great state of Louisiana!
In SA: The Monterrey in South Town, Local Coffee at the Pearl, Green at the Pearl, Lucky Duck at the Pearl. IF you have more time Umai Mi on Bitters near West Ave.
Houston! Revival Market in the Heights neighborhood makes a meeeaan cup of joe.
John Besh August in New Orleans for the three course lunch for 20.14, bring your own bottle of wine and there is no corkage fee. I live in Baton Rouge and can recommend The Chimes by Louisiana State University. For coffee and beignets, get off I-10 at College and go to Coffee Call.
Crayfish may not be in anytime soon because of the cold weather, be careful where it’s on the menu as it could be from China.
In Scott, we always stop for boudin and cracklins at Don’s. ALWAYS, spicy, rich, but no upset stomach. In Houston, we eat at the Salvedia’s on Westhiemer, for Argentinan food. I know I am misspelling the name, will get back with you.
I like Pappas Seafood in Houston, but it’s part of a chain that can be hit or miss.
Central Market in Houston is great for a quick swing by for pick up and go food. Less expensive that eating at a sit down resturant.
Martins Wine Cellar in Metairie LA on Veterans Memorial Blvd. PJ’s Coffee, Cake Cafe in New Orleans. Cresent City Brewpub, for the gumbo, beer and apps on the balcony with a view of the river. Central Grocery for a muffalotta. John Besh/August/Lunch. Mother’s for a debris biscuit, just order one! Grits are lovely there too! Mr. B’s for bar be que shrimp and lunch cocktails.
Bouchiere off Magazine Street, amazing food, esp at lunch. The Columns on St. Charles, cocktails at dusk, on the porch.
RoodFood San Antonia for Mexican food, several years ago, we hit them all and they were wonderful, goat is served on the weekends!
Oh, Sucre for dessert in New Orleans. That’s it, I’m putting on weight just writing this!
welp, as a baker, you must check out Belle Sucre bakery in El Paso!! divine.
If youโre there on a Saturday, you can snag a croissant donut. I’ve recently moved from EP and long for Belle Sucre even from here in culinary-overload of Portland.
BS is only a few minutes in from the city limits as you enter from the west and about a minute or two off the highway.
and when in EP, eat Mexican food there. I’ve heard so many (not just the natives) say that it truly isnโt better anywhere else, and I whole-heartedly agree.
Rosaโs Cantina is the restaurant from Marty Robbinsโ famous โdown in the west Texas town of El Pasoโฆโ song.
l&j cafe is one of the original diners in the city and where many go for enchiladas.
aaaaaaaaaaaand, Chicoโs Tacos is EPโs infamous greasy-guilt-food joint: rolled tacos in a tomato broth topped with, err, i think itโs cheese. ;)
if you are staying overnight in ep by chance, then you must have what my hunny and i call beerritas (different places have different names for them): a mini corona is dunked into your margarita. my favorite is made at cabo joeโs. there are two locations. i sโpose you could simply eat a smothered burrito there
from Tucson to San Antonio…Mesilla, NM! Fun downtown with shops and history (Billy the Kid, etc.) and awesome food…try Andele’s. And be sure to get a green chile cheeseburger. And I don’t know how far out of the way you want to go, but an hour away from there is White Sands National Monument which is incredible, you really should go. 200 square miles of snow-white sand dunes! If I still lived there I would take you!
between Tucson and Juarez… like others have said, Hatch, NM. This is the home of green chile. Get a green chile cheeseburger anywhere in town. Even the lowly ones at Whataburger are better than any fancy hipster burger anywhere else in the country. The key is that the chile is fresh as it can be. Life changing moment. Just east of El Paso, there’s a working ranch (Indian Cliff’s ranch) with a restaurant (Cattlemen’s Steakhouse) that will serve you hand-carved award-winning steaks. Everyone loves the steaks, but the true secrets there are the beef ribs (only in Texas would you be served a whole side of beef) and the fun you’ll have touring the grounds before dinner. Please be careful and possibly consider not going to Juarez. Terribly dangerous.
If you leave Santa Monica late morning, you’ll be in Redlands at noon, which is when a la minute opens. They freeze their ice cream with liquid nitrogen and use local ingredients. Ice cream for lunch! Plus, Parliament Chocolates, one of the few bean to bar shops, is right around the corner. Market night is Thursday evenings from 6-9 if you’re coming back home on the 10 :) Mmmmmmm Orange honey ice cream…
Although it is a tad out of your way, Lockhart, TX is awesome for BBQ! There are several restaurants in town, I’ve only eaten at Smitty’s Market and Kreuz Market, both were amazing!!
As for roadside attractions, Prada Marfa (on US 90, between Marfa and Valentine, TX) is a really cool permanent art installation (a replica of a Prada store in the middle of the desert), it is also a bit out of the way but pretty awesome!
Tucson: the most authentic mexican food I’ve ever had was at Guadalajara Grill!!!! Plus, they have a mariachi band that goes around the tables :) enjoy! Also, I’m finding some great suggestions on here myself! Thanks everyone! This was definitely a win/win post :)
I used to live right in Queen Creek, AZ…it is an interesting place. Not much there…but you should REALLY check out the Olive Mill and even Schnepf farms if you get a chance. Schnepf farms has been around forever and you can pick your own veggies!!!! It is unique and charming, with coffee and the best peach pies know to man. The olive mill is newer, but has made itself a know entity. They have coffee, gelato, WINE and their own olive oils (with tastings). It is barely out of your way when you start heading toward Tucson from Phoenix on I-10.
Queen Creek Olive Mill
25062 S Meridian Rd
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
In Tucson, I recommend MISS SAIGON (Campbell and Speedway)! Their lettuce cups and vegetable sides are exactly what I needed when I needed some vegetables and greens to balance out all the delicious (but heavy) snacks, pizzas, and burgers.
This is also my go-to spot for Vietnamese food in town. This place is bumpin’ with students at all times of the day (though I’ve never had to wait long for a table)…that’s how you know it’s good but inexpensive! (I moved to Tucson from SF Bay Area so I sure do miss the array of Asian restaurants there!)
I second the recommendations of RAGING SAGE – their scones have a perfectly crusty outside but a still-tender inside…how do they do it?! Their pastry case is amazing, too…I got at least once a week and there’s always a never-before-seen new pastry option!
Safe travels! I just made the SF-Tucson drive in January (and in August). I’m glad it won’t be 110F+ when you’re stepping out of the car in AZ :)
You MUST go to Cartel Coffee–locations in both Phoenix and Tucson. Local and hands down the best coffee i’ve had in all of the United States. My boyfriend roadtripped from his hometown of Tucson to the east coast and brought gallons of it for his trip.
In Tucson you must go to Guero Canelo for a sinoran dog (google that ish! it’s amazing) and/or get a cheese crisp from Casa Molina (it might be an or because both are divine and decadent, but who knows it may be an “and” kind of day). Also Time Market right near the University of Arizona is AMAZING for sandwiches and for browsing. You’ll love it, Joy–I don’t know you, but I kind of know you.
You need to visit 4th avenue for some southwest weirdness–if you’re trip has just become too overwhelming and you need a drink GO TO HOTEL CONGRESS BAR!! It’s incredible! Hike Mt. Lemon in Tucson as a reminder that there are things beyond your car. The B Line is a great restaurant as is Zinburger!
That’s my advice for Tucson. Have an amazing trip!
Hi Joy, I know a bazillion million other have responded and the fact that you may not even receive this comment is something I have come to terms with…..sort. ;) So I don’t have any first hand experience with this route that you are taking but I didn’t know if you knew up the website called roadtrippers.com. My husband and I have used it for all of our road trips that we have taken in the US and it pretty much the most AMAZEBALLS site out there for road tripping. You simply type in where you starting and destination point and then are given all these options to find, natural sites, restaurants, touristy things to look at, historical sites….etc. I bet you probably already know about it in which I am preaching to the choir. Best luck on your tip! Btw I am obsessed with your marble countertop that you always photograph on!
incredibly good scones & chai at Raging Sage in Tucson!
Oh and Cafe de Amis in Breaux Bridge LA is fantastic. Amazing alligator cheesecake.. as good as Jacque Imo’s in NOLA.. and lots of other good local faire.. and live Zydeco music on weekends. Small town Louisiana charm at its most authentic. That whole town is full of good secrets.
My husband and I have done this exact road trip twice. Once when we got married and moved to New Orleans for two years, and once when we moved back. It’s a half hour to an hour out of the way but go to the Salt Lick in the Texas Hill Country. It is a WORTHY stop on this exhausting journey. Beautiful atmosphere, AMAZING BEST barbecue ever, gorgeous farm setting, live music, fresh cold lemonade, and a wine tasting room. It is an experience.. and though it’s in the middle of hill country, there are always people. It is so worth it. I recommend it to everyone.
Enjoy NOLA, that home away from home has a slice of my heart!
San Antonio: Southtown restaurant Feast is awesome. Also be sure to get the Potosino’s at Gloria’s in the Pearl Brewery complex.
I don’t know whether this comment will catch your attention, but I hope it does! I want to make two suggestions:
1) About an hour before reaching San Antonio, you’ll be in the Kerrville/Comfort/Fredricksburg area, which is the heart of the Texas Wine Country! If you have time, you should mosey up to Fredericksburg, but you HAVE to stop in Comfort (just off I-10 at exit 524/527 or so) even if you don’t have time. I’ll give a big shout out to High’s Cafe – fantastic sandwiches, soups, salads, and (obviously the most important) baked goods in an awesome, historic setting. Then, just down the street, is the satellite tasting room for Bending Branch Winery – my favorite Texas winery. Definitely look up the website. And, if you have time, it’s definitely worth it to drive (~15 minutes) to the main Bending Branch location – it has a beautiful view of the Texas Hill Country and is probably one of the most authentic experiences you’ll have in that part of the state.
2) For breakfast/brunch in San Antonio, you MUST go to the Guenther House. It’s the 19th century home of Charles Guenther, who established Pioneer Flour Mill after emigrating from Germany. They’ve turned the house into a restaurant and store, which sells many baking mixes, condiments, oils, honey, etc. It’s just south of downtown, right on the San Antonio River, and is one of the most beautiful places the city has to offer. And I haven’t even talked about the food yet! If you can manage to hold out until 11 a.m. (with some help from their tantalizing pastry case), you can order Champagne Chicken Enchiladas – definitely one of my favorite dishes from any restaurant anywhere. (I also think I saw another poster recommend El Mirador – I second that; it’s only 1/2 a mile or so from the Gunther House, and you can spend the time in between exploring the historic homes and art district in the King William area.)
Enjoy!
Houston: Las Locas Fajitas (bingle/kempwood). Small hole in the wall place. Seriously THE BEST fajita tacos I’ve had in my entire life. Also the spiciest green sauce, I love it! So popular that they recently made the change to open 7 days a week until 6 pm! You might want to stop at a Central Market as well (Highland Village) it pretty much puts Whole Foods to shame. And if it’s pizza you want (or a GIANT Chipotle Texas Meatball Smashed on top of an amazing loaded potato. Or seriously delicious ceviche. Or just a supreme pizza that will make your cheesy heart sing…) head over to City Oven (https://thecityoven.com/) the walls are adorned with quirky odds and ends as well as a healthy dose of chalk art. you can see the huge brick pizza oven from your seat and there is an entire menu for local brews (bombshell blonde is my fave!) some days they have live music and other days they have karaoke. super chill and super delish. WORTH it.
Texas: You absolutely have to stop at Buc-ees. It’s so much more than a gas station. Also, the original Ninfa’s in Houston is the gold standard for Tex-Mex. You will make a huge mistake if you don’t go there at least once in your life.
Hi Joy! I’ve lived in both Tucson and Phoenix for 9 years, and here’s what I’d recommend for you:
Tucson: El Guero Canelo. Order the Sonoran hotdog, you will and won’t regret it. It’s pretty much a heart attack in a bun… a beautiful, soft, sweet bun. Inside you’ll find a hot dog wrapped in bacon, with beans, onions, tomatoes and mayo. Wash it down with a drink from Eegee’s. If you go to these two places, you officially have a talking point with anyone who’s lived in Tucson. If you’re looking for something healthier- Beyond Bread. They make their own bread in house and have great sandwiches.
Phoenix: Le Grande Orange for a breakfast commuter sandwich. They make it with their own giant English muffins that are griddled in house with scrambled eggs, tomato and mayo, and your choice of meat. The best part, a portion of the restaurant is a grocery with a lot of wine, and fun things to look at while you wait for your meal to be ready. They also have a cafe, with organic coffee that is delicious.
If you’re in Tempe, and looking for coffee, I would recommend Solo Cafe (on Baseline between College and Mill). The coffee, espresso, and tea are carefully crafted, and the baristas are enthusiastic about every drink they make. The decor is quirky and comfortable to boot.
Most importantly, if there’s any advice I can give you it’s this: Tucson= University of Arizona; Phoenix/Tempe= Arizona State University. We’re quite serious about our schools.
Have a safe trip and I hope you have an adventure! :)
Phoenix Public Market in Downtown Phoenix has amazing food, it’s also a farmer’s market on Wednesday nights and Saturday mornings! Right next to Panne Bianco is Lux Coffee, it’s worth a stop just for the eclectic atmosphere!
This isn’t actually a food suggestion, but if you want to take a break and look at some beautiful desert scenery, Aguirre Spring Campground near Las Cruces, NM is amazing. You can make it there from LA in either one intense day or two leisurely ones. I made the first half of your trip several times during my graduate research, and I always stopped at Aguirre Spring to camp. Sunset reflecting off the mountains is gorgeous, and there are hiking trails that lead to even more gorgeousness. I’m sure you can come up with much more creative campfire dishes than I ever did, and I look forward to hearing about them, as well as the rest of your adventures. Good luck!
Looks like everyone has left a lot of great suggestions, so I’ll just say that I’d recommend not going to Cuidad Juarez and staying on the US side of the border. I helped my brother move cross country along I-10 a few years back, and he wanted to make a trip to Mexico as well but we decided it wasn’t the best idea since we had literally everything he owned in the car. I assume you’ll at least have a laptop and other electronics, and I understand Cuidad isn’t the safest of places.
For Phoenix… Cartel does have killer coffee (and awesome cookies.. I randomly went in to a different location and they had fresh chocolate chip cookies, right out of the oven and it was like winning the lottery), but there are multiple locations on your way, including two in Tucson. La Grande Orange has awesome pizza and salads. Chelsea’s Kitchen is probably my favorite restaurant in Phoenix. OR Matt’s Big Breakfast, depending on what you’re in the mood for. MBB is on my list of favorite restaurants of all time, but I’m a breakfast freak.
For Tucson, I definitely second Time Market or Hotel Congress (if you have more time). Time Market has excellent pizza and sandwiches (fresh baked organic bread everyday, local, etc.) and also has really good coffee. Hotel Congress has amazing breakfast served all day (baked eggs ftw– get french fries with it if you go later in the day instead of the hotel potatoes). The cafe croissant mentioned in an earlier post is probably from Maynard’s Market, right across the street from HC, which is also incredible.
Fun fun! If you can swing an early Saturday morning in Breaux Bridge, LA (just off I-10, outside Lafayette), go to the weekly Zydeco Breakfast at Cafe Des Amis (https://www.cafedesamis.com/), for great food and live music and dancing on the wonderfully crowded dance floor! In Lafayette, check out Johnson’s Boucaniere (https://johnsonsboucaniere.com/), a specialty meats shop and fun little restaurant with great spicy boudin and so much more, including “Stuffed Grilled Cheese” with pulled pork or brisket!! And then there’s The French Press (https://www.thefrenchpresslafayette.com/), in downtown Lafayette, which has so many delicious twists to classic Louisiana foods. Try the “Sweet Baby Breesus” or anything else on the menu!
So happy you’ll be getting to know Louisiana better! It’s a fantastic place to live!
In San Antonio, stop by for some lively Mariachi music at the Mariachi Bar. It’s located adjacent to Mi Tierra Restaurant and bakery. Enjoy an evening listening to some talented musicians as you relax with an iced Sangria….
I second Goode Co. Seafood if you go that way. Mi Tierra in San Antonio is great and you can get the most amazing pan dulces from their bakery (if I was good in this life, that is where I will live out eternity). Fausto’s in Kinder, LA has some incredible gumbo and these little fries biscuits that make me want to weep. Yum!
I can’t believe that no one has mentioned Marfa, TX on the drive between Tuscon and San Antonio. You HAVE to stop in Marfa and eat at the Food Shark. And if you can stay the night, see the Marfa lights.
This is going to be one epic road trip. I haven’t been to any of these places or anywhere in between so I cannot help. I am pretty sure though I will want to vacation at each of these spots after hearing of your adventures.
Las Cruces, NM is about 45 minutes before you hit El Paso/Juarez. Our Southern New Mexican food is distinct from Central and Northern New Mexican food (such as can be found in Albuquerque or Santa Fe), it’s definitely not Tex-Mex/Southwestern style, and its hints of authentic Mexican influence often come from northern Mexico in the form of recipes passed down from grandmothers that grew up there. There’s a tiny taco restaurant that features all varieties of meat and chile combinations (including tripe) called Taco Mexicano #2. For a more sit-down restaurant feel, there are three Los Compas locations in town that have everything from the best chiles rellenos you can get outside a grandmother’s kitchen to tamales to green chile meat burritos to sweet empanadas for dessert.
Wishing you safe travels and a delicious trip!
Cornish Pasty Co in Tempe – the original location, not the shiny, new locations. It’s near enough to Phoenix to count. :) Safe travels!
If you go through Houston you must, must, MUST go to Pondicheri. It is an Indian inspired cafe with amazing food served all day long. You can stop in for a juice or pastry but breakfast is my fave – think delicious and unexpected pastries and egg dishes. I can’t recommend it enough! And in San Antonio I highly recommend El Mirador for really authentic and delicious Tex Mex. I’ve eaten Tex Mex all over Texas and I think it is by far the best spot!
Phoenix! That’s my city!
Eat before you leave LA. There is nothing but fast food in Blythe between there and here. It’s really not that far, and I’d rather nibble on some nuts in the car and save my appetite for a real meal.
Absolutely hit up FnB. Dinner is a little nicer, but if you’re just swinging by lunch is perfect. Plus for dinner, I find it best to share small plates with lots o’ people.
Pizzeria Bianco for pizza. Their sister Pane Bianco has lovely sandwiches, and lux next door for coffee is delightful. Also good for pizza–Pomo, the Parlor.
Gallo Blanco for tacos/Mexican brunch. If you want a divey taco joint, Tacos Atoyac is your place.
Sonoran hot dogs from Nogales Hot Dogs. It’s a food truck that sets up at night, and by food truck I don’t mean hipsters in an Airstream.
I will second Essence. Their lunch specials are excellent, but they sell out quickly.
The Stand for cheeseburgers. They are clearly copying the In N Out model, but they are delightful.
Barrio for fancy Mexican. Carolina’s for unfancy Mexican.
St. Francis has some excellent happy hour food.
I could keep going for a really really long time. :)
Taco taco or rolandos super taco for breakfast tacos in san Antonio. The missions a bit outside the city are also pretty cool.
TUCSON: you must must MUST grab a coffee and scone at Raging Sage (Campbell and Grant, by the flower shop). Best roaster in town, and it feels like home every time i go back. Just watch the line on Sunday mornings!
I’m sure others have mentioned Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix:
https://theactorsdiet.com/2013/04/07/anniversary-chile-and-cheese/
I also loved the coffeehouse Lux Central (also in Phoenix):
https://theactorsdiet.com/2013/04/07/lux-central/
Bon voyage, Joy! Los Angeles will miss you!
Awesome suggestions, Lynn! I’m so glad I got to see you a handful of times here in LA!
I’m so excited your coming through Tucson!! You will drive right by the Triple T Truckstop off of I-10, it’s great/dang cool. (https://menuinprogress.com/2008/05/triple-t-truck-stop-tucson-truck.html) OR! If you want to venture into town (and you should!) AND it’s a Friday morning between 9 and 1, head over to Jesse Owens park for the farmers market. Find the food truck called Planet of the Crepes. To.Die.For. Amazing creations, not to be missed!
Crepes! I love these suggestions! Thank you, Mel!
Lockhart, Texas is lovely and close enough to San Antonio to make it a great stop. We preferred the brisket at Black’s and the ribs at Smitty’s. Everything is sold by the pound, so sampling everything (brisket, ribs, sausage) at each of the main Lockhart BBQ spots is an easy way to do lunch. Someone else mentioned an article about the 50 best BBQ places in Texas; be sure to check it out, and wherever you go, go hungry.
I am so excited to share with you some of the delicious food phoenix has to offer.
For pizza, Pizzeria Bianco has won too many awards to count. Crepe Bar is the joint to go for some life changing crepes and the coffee to compete.
For the best specialty coffee in Phoenix, come to Cartel Coffee Lab at 1st st and Washington. I’ll be working Wednesday and Thursday if you want to come say hi. If it’s too far out of your way, the other locations of Cartel are delicious as well.
Lots of other delicious food recommendations if you need them- the Upward Projects restaurants and Sam Fox restaurants are always right on the money.
Congrats!! Have a nice trip, Joy! You will be closer to me! I live in Ma!
i 100% agree with the tucson recommendations – cafe poca cosa and hotel congress in particular. tucson has a wonderful independent coffee shop culture – epic cafe on 4th ave and bentley’s by the university are two old favorites. in phoenix, check out la grande orange for delicious sandwiches and salads (and pizza, and coffee, and tchotchkes…it’s all great). postino’s wine bar – wonderful atmosphere, great wine (all glasses are $5 before 5pm!) and they’re known for their bruschetta. barrio cafe for more upscale (but not fancy) mexican food, carolina’s for the best enchiladas you’ll ever have. pizzeria bianco is world-renown and always crowded, but check out pane bianco for foccacia sandwiches made with the same amazing ingredients – probably the best sandwiches i’ve ever had.
good luck on the move and enjoy all the great food!!
Don’t forget the cheesecake!
i never do! (uugghhh!)
In Phoenix, just dine at the James Beard nominees/award winners and you won’t go wrong. And that doesn’t necessarily mean fancy either!! Pizzeria Bianco (or its sister restaurant Pane Bianco) makes AMAZING pizza that even Martha Stewart loves and repeatedly comes to when in town. (I’d recommend Pane Bianco simply because they also serve sandwiches for lunch, and the wait is shorter. Same pizza at all locations.)
For Mexican, go with Barrio Cafe (another Martha pick and James Beard nominee.) Again, not fancy, but great unique food.
TEXAS: you gotta stop in MARFA! it will add a big dose of beauty and good vibes to your drive.
In Phoenix: Postino Central! It’s an awesome wine bar and you get your choice of 4 different bruschetta breads for $14! https://www.postinowinecafe.com/
In Tucson: the best croissant I’ve ever had was at this little market next to the Amtrak station.
Now this is something I can help with. I’m a professional road-tripper (technically an active adventure cross country tour guide) with a PHD in Americana and road food. Unfortunately you’re going slightly south of most of my normal route.
If you’ve never been, leave a little early and go slightly out of the way to hit up Joshua Tree National Park, criminally beautiful. Crossroads Cafe is a must stop for breakfast and pure JT. https://www.crossroadscafejtree.com/ There’s also plenty of outsider art in the JT / Twentynine Palms area. You can leave your mark in rocks along the train tracks out of town. There’s also one of those leave your shoes/underwear/bra spots out there.
Make sure you have enough gas to get out of California. Prices drop substantially once you hit Arizona. Especially if you have to get it out in the middle of nowhere. I mistimed a personal trip from Sequoia to the Grand Canyon and had to pay $2/gallon more to make it through the Mojave. West of Phoenix is your only place to see Saguaro cactus so make sure you don’t put off stopping for a photo.
Grimaldi’s is good but I wouldn’t go out of my way for it. Especially when you’re in the southwest. So much better local, regional food. Though I’ll contradict myself here slightly. Phoenix and Tucson are your last In N Out opportunities. You obviously know why this is important.
Going through New Mexico? There’s only one thing you HAVE to eat. A green-chile cheeseburger. Blake’s Lotaburger is pretty good for a fast-food chain. Everything is cooked to order so it’s not that fast. This map should help too. https://www.newmexico.org/media/940923/gcct_brochure_2011_fin.pdf
I-10 in Texas is long, straight and can get incredibly boring. Thankfully you get to drive really fast. Between Fort Stockton and San Antonio there aren’t many places to stop for gas. Really just a couple “big” cities an hour/hour & half apart. Ozona has easy on/off gas at the Avenue E – 163 exit. There’s also a delightful little park in the middle of town where I always picnic. It just looks Texas. Court house, church, gun store, feed shop, etc. all surround it. Brian’s Poco Taco sits on a corner. It’s dirty, kinda rundown, and sparse but they have a delicious $2 barbacoa burrito.
In San Antonio I love El Milagrito Cafรฉ for Mexican. The mole or chipotle crema enchiladas. It’s only open for lunch. https://www.elmilagritocafe.com
I’ll second/third/fourth Buc-eeโs. It’s amazing. Always fresh coffee. Way too much jerky. (Ask for samples.) The kolaches are to die for. The billboards are hilarious.
Houston traffic can be absolute hell if you hit it at rush hour.
Plenty of adult stores on I-10 once you hit Louisiana if that’s your thing. More importantly there are plenty of boudin stores. It might be my favorite food. Billy’s Boudin & Cracklins and Best Stop Supermarket, both in Scott, are probably my favorite places to stop but Don’s Specialty Meats works too. You can put it off until you’re settled in but once you want to go see gators I always use Cajun Pride in La Place, La. Real Cajun captains. See if you can get on a boat with Captain Tom. https://www.cajunprideswamptours.com/
you nailed it! thank you for all of these incredible suggestions! I have a notebook that is going with me on this drive and you’re suggestions are all up in it! thank you!
Hi Joy! De-lurking to recommend Torchy’s Tacos in Houston for fresh ingredients, fun flavor combinations and minimum pretension. It’s not too far off I-10.
I’ve been transplanted to Houston from the San Francisco Bay area, so the bar is pretty high. :)
if you need a last stop or pick-me-up before you roll into nola, I have to recommend the lab in Lafayette for incredible coffee. or magpie cafe in baton rouge for the best lattes around, plus house made baked goods like maple pecan scones or giant chocolate chip cookies. they also have a fresh squeezed juice bar and they serve lunch made with organic and local ingredients! It’s a treasure and totally up your alley!
I drove austin to LA this summer, stopping in Phoenix, Tucson and las cruces. In Phoenix: pizzeria Bianco: best in the country. Matt’s big breakfast, Postino wine bar, la grande orange are all amazing. Outside of El Paso there’s a huge souvenir store that’s you can’t miss.
I agree with everyone above, you have to stop by the Pearl Brewery in San Antonio. And then I will probably faint and have a total fan girl moment because you’ll be within 3 blocks of my house. Il Sogno has amazing Italian food, Local coffee is a two-fer because it has really great coffee and pastries from Bakery Lorraine (a really amazing local bakery owned by two Bouchon Bakery alums), also, La Gloria has great margaritas and Mexican/Central American street food. If you’re in the mood for more hearty Mexican food I would get the Enchiladas Suezas from Rosarios in Southtown. They’re to die for and the surrounding neighborhood is one of the oldest in San Antonio (huge beautiful old homes). On your way to Houston stop at City Market in Luling. Best BBQ ever! My husband and I had it at our wedding, even though we had to pay someone to drive 4 hours to pick it up. Also, as weird as Buc-ees is, you kind of have to see it to believe it. Everything really is bigger in Texas. Including truck stop restrooms…
Taco Taco in San Antonio makes the *best* breakfast tacos. Their tortillas cannot be beat. I haven’t lived there in five years and easily once a month I wake up thinking, “Taco Taco would be *so* good right now!”
Hi Joy, hope you have a great trip! Road trips are the best. If you need an overnight in Phoenix, The Clarendon Hotel is a centrally-located, good, well-priced boutique with a great restaurant attached. Gallo Blanco tacos, aguas frescas, cocktails, street corn, happy hour, brunch…it’s good. The Fry Bread House is regionally renowned if you want a delicious gut-bomb of southwest experience. “Fancy pizza,” as we like to call it, is excellent at Bianco’s, The Parlor, and Federal Pizza (yummy ice cream across the street from that last). Central-city coffee lovers (counting me) have been in love with Lux Coffee for years–they expanded a few years ago and will also feed you amazing food. And cocktails. And beer. And house-made pastry. Giant Coffee is near the I-10 and is also very good. I also agree with the above comments about Tucson–the Cup at the Congress Hotel has very very good coffee (did I mention I’m an expert?) and the best Bloody Mary around these parts. Have fun and can’t wait to see posts from New Orleans (swoon, that city is so amaze….)!! Love, Robin L.
I don’t know how out of the way this will be, but you HAVE to see the Cadillac Ranch in Texas. It’s one of the coolest things you can see, plus….who doesn’t love seeing an old Cadillac sticking up out of the ground in the middle of nowhere, Texas?!? I hope you have a great drive and be safe!!! You will love, love, love New Orleans!!!
In Phoenix, the Welcome Diner! Located at 924 E Roosevelt St in the Garfield residential neighborhood, they source locally and prepare pretty much everything on-site. My personal favorites are the PB & B Burger (peanut butter, bacon, bread & butter pickles, cheddar) and the ginger beer (non-alcoholic), but everything on the menu is delicious! It’s just off I-10: Coming from LA exit at 7th St, turn right (south) and almost immediately turn left (east) on Roosevelt. The diner is on the corner of 10th St and Roosevelt, with street parking. Note they are closed on Mondays.
https://www.marthaandmary.net/welcomediner/menu.html
https://www.facebook.com/WelcomeDiner
Z’ot is great coffee in NOLA. My husband and I were there a couple years back and I did a lot of research. The research was worth it!
Mimi’s Cafe in Mesa, AZ (suburb of Phoenix) has the best muffins you will ever try!
Places to try in San Antonio – Breakfast tacos: Taco Haven. Breakfast: The Guenther House. BBQ: Bolner’s Meat Market. Cafe: Josephine Street Cafe & Bakery. Fast Food: Whataburger (It’s all over Texas). If your a soda drinker make sure to pick up a Big Red.
Biscuits and flat white at Blacksmith in Houston are a must try for breakfast! Local Foods is great for lunch — Truffled Egg Salad is where it’s at! Goro & Gun is fun for dinner (or any of the restaurants in the Historic Market Square area of Houston). Haymerchant is a beer lovers’ haven. I think you’d really enjoy the Montrose, Heights or EaDo areas of Houston. Safe travels!
Scott, LA: this is just outside of Lafayette on I-10. Take the Scott exit, hook a right at the light, and head to Best Stop for the world’s best boudin (which is an Acadiana staple that you will probably love). The cracklin there is also amazing, so grab a bag to munch on as you drive into New Orleans.
Tucson/Ciudad Juarez โโ> San Antonio:
Tombstone, AZ: old west goodness…get your boots dusty, tip your hat, grab a cold drink
Bisbee, AZ: spend a night at The Shady Dell if you can https://www.theshadydell.com/ – classic airstreams done up right purty!
Driftwood, TX: The Salt Lick – go for the blackberry cobbler…the communal dining…the BYOB…and the dusty wooden floors (just SW of Austin…which I know is north of San An..but WORTH the ‘off route’) https://www.saltlickbbq.com/
West, TX: also a bit off route but worth it (try kolaches here – even the gas stations sell them…and they’re amazing – meat or fruit filled…the pastry is amazing) my boss (a Texan) swears by this location: 215 North Interstate 35 Frontage Road, Chevron Station
In San Antonio and SO excited you’ll be stopping by our neck of the woods! I love our city. :) I’m going to go off the beaten path of pizza recommendations, in hopes you’ll do something a little different. Although Dough is excellent, it’s more fancy-shmancy, gourmet pizza. The place that’s more my style is called Fralo’s Pizza. It’s right off of I-10 and Boerne Stage Rd, just north of San Antonio. It’s locally owned, amazing pizzas and pastas, and super amazing atmosphere, with their outdoor seating amongst tall, Texas mesquite trees. I promise you won’t regret trying it. Have fun! Let me know if you need a dinner date! :)
In Phoenix:
Paletas Betty for fresh, homemade popsicles in Tempe – https://paletasbetty.com/
Filibertos for the best breakfast burrito you will ever have in your life!
Our favorite restaurants are Cowboy Ciao ($$$$), Sauce, Sapporo.
From San Antonio to New Orleans: Skip everything else until you get to Lafayette, Louisiana. Depending on the time of your arrival here are my suggestions: French Press restaurant (three-time James Beard nominee – wonderful dinner, but the brunch is to die-for!), Blue Moon Saloon in downtown Lafayette. Plan to overnight in Lafayette, put on your dancing shoes and head to Blue Moon. Cafe des Amis, Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. If you can time your visit to Cajun Country with Saturday morning (go to Blue Moon Saloon Friday night, sleep at The Buchanan Lofts, see there is a theme here) then you must enjoy the zydeco breakfast at Cafe des Amis! After you’ve danced off breakfast then drive to New Orleans — you’ll be ready to unpack. BUT if you can’t make a stop in Lafayette while en route to your new home, you should make the 2 hour trip to Lafayette once you are settled in New Orleans to enjoy the hospitality of Cajun Country.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico! Trust me, I’m a geographer !
Welp, as a baker, you must check out Belle Sucre bakery in El Paso!! Divine.
If you’re there on a Saturday, you can snag a croissant donut. I’ve recently moved from EP and long for Belle Sucre even from here in culinary-overload of Portland.
BS is only a few minutes in from the city limits as you enter from the west and about a minute or two off the highway.
And when in EP, eat Mexican food there. I’ve heard so many (not just the natives) say that it truly isn’t better anywhere else, and I whole-heartedly agree.
Rosa’s Cantina is the restaurant from Marty Robbins’ famous “Down in the west Texas town of El Paso…” song.
L&J cafe is one of the original diners in the city and where many go for enchiladas.
Aaaaaaaaaaaand, Chico’s Tacos is EP’s infamous greasy-guilt-food joint: rolled tacos in a tomato broth topped with, err, i think it’s cheese. ;)
If you are staying overnight in EP by chance, then you MUST have what my hunny and I call Beerritas (different places have different names for them): a mini Corona is dunked into your margarita. My favorite is made at Cabo Joe’s. There are two locations. I s’pose you could simply eat a smothered burrito there.
If you come through Baton Rouge, you have to stop at Dempsey’s on Coursey Blvd and order their “Messy Fries” and Shrimp Po’Boy. I live here in Baton Rouge and it is our favorite place to eat. We get the Messy Fries every time we go. They are fresh cut french fries topped with shrimp Mornay sauce, Cheddar cheese, jalapenos, and huge fried shrimp. Best dish ever!
Middendorf’s in Ponchatoula, LA for the best catfish ever. And Frankie and Johnny’s in NOLA for the best crawfish/mudbugs. You’ll have to start eating like a native in NO!
I don’t have any recommendations but I did this trip over 30 years ago and one of the fun things was to collect regional cookbooks along the way. Since a lot of the places you are stopping are local places, see if they have their own cookbook or one from a local church or school. It would be fun to see some recipes on your blog from the stops after your trip. I still have the cookbooks I picked up when I did my x-country road trip!
No specific restaurant here, but you better be eating a breakfast taco or two while traveling through Texas! I haven’t found a place I don’t like. Except maybe Taco Bell. Don’t eat the new Taco Bell breakfast tacos.
What an amazing roadtrip! Can’t wait for the pictures. Safe travels!
https://liveitinerantly.com/
If you are looking for a place to stop in El Paso, I recommend the Gufo di Milano coffee shop for great coffee and gelato! Also, right across from there is an excellent lunch spot, Independent Burger, that was recently opened and has amazing burgers!!
If you’re planning on stopping in Baton Rouge on your journey down I-10 to New-aw-lahns (BTR pronunciation) then get off at the Dalrymple exit, just past the University Lakes. Make your way to State Street, near the north gates of LSU’s campus and eat at Louie’s Cafe! Sit on a stool at the bar and have a chat with Frenchie, the cook – and a local legend. He will make you the best veggie omelet you’ve ever had and you can’t get out of there without a side of cajun hashbrowns! (I also recommend the B.E.S.T. on rye) For coffee, wander through the parking lots behind Louie’s and hang a left over to Highland Coffee on West Chimes St.. They roast their own beans but have a great variety of artisan teas, too.
While you’re near campus you should stop in to visit Mike the Tiger next door to Death Valley Stadium. Nothing like a walk under 100+ year old oaks to earn those hashbrowns.
So excited you’re becoming a Louisiana resident! Looking forward to your new adventures!
French Press in Lafayette, LA will knock your socks off! I recommend the Sweet Baby Breezus. Also Cafe Des Amis in Breaux Bridge, LA is an excellent place to get really delicious Cajun food.
Stop in Lafayette, LA on your way from San Antonio to New Orleans. Lots of great eats there! Pouparts French Bakery, Don’s Specialty meats for boudin, and many many more!
If you can check out Barrio Cafe in Phoenix, you won’t be sorry. Award winning Mexican food by an awesome chef who happens to be my cousin. Check it out!
Joy! I grew up in San Antonio and you are in for some treats!! You cannot, CANNOT miss the margaritas and glorious Tex-Mex at La Fogata. Sunday brunch at The Monterey is life-changing. And stop at Bird Bakery for a cupcake! Have the best road trip!
Just make sure you stock up on snacks and gas before leaving El Paso, cause there is a whole lot of nothing until you get to San Antonio. Safe travels!!!!
Between Phoenix and Tucson is Picacho Peak State Park. It’s right off of I-10 so you can’t miss it. It’s great for hiking but I doubt you’ll have time! Right next door is Rooster Cogburn’s Ostrich Farm. It’s actually a blast. Also, the Saguaro National Park just outside of Tucson is a gorgeous drive.
Phoenix suggestions:
Matt’s Big Breakfast,
Gallo Blanco, and last but not least Pizzaria Bianco.
For another coffee pick me up, stop in Lafayette at the lab! Coffee is out of this world!
If you need a pick me up before you roll into Nola, stop at Magpie Cafe in Baton Rouge! The best lattes, cappuccinos and coffee around plus out of this world baked goods like maple pecan scones and massive chocolate chip cookies. They also have a fresh squeezed juice bar and serve lunch made from local and organic ingredients. It’s incredible!
SAN ANTONIO, please don’t miss Feast – it’s at 1024 S Alamo St. There for a bachelorette party two summers ago and I have dreams about the pork belly.
Phoenix – Bobby Q’s which is a really good (slightly expensive) BBQ joint. Hubby and I ate there a while back and it was SO GOOD!!
I’ve never been through any of these areas, but I can’t wait to read all the suggestions! Good luck on your road trip travels!
xoxo
Taylor
http://www.welcomehometaylor.com
In Phoenix, you must visit Pane Bianco, and its coffee bar/cafe neighbor, Lux. You can get amazing sandwiches on super crusty ciabatta and salads at Bianco’s, and Lux roasts and grinds their own coffee (in addition to making all their pastries and food in-house, some items are gluten-free and/or vegan!). Both places use local ingredients from nearby farms, and they attract a nicely mixed crowd of interesting people (anywhere from doctors and nurses, to lawyers, writers, musicians, students, etc.) Trust me, you will adore these places.
FnB in Scottsdale (about 15 minutes from Phx) is an incredible stop for lunch too- their menu is tiny, having only five items- snack, salad, potted, sandwich, pudding- and these change daily, depending on what’s at the farmer’s market and what has been delivered from the local farms that day. The pudding, though, is reason to come alone- they have the most ridiculous, heavenly butterscotch pudding, which has a bit of a cult status with those who know. Yum.
Hi, Joy. I was just in San Antonio this weekend. We feel in love with Mi Tierra https://www.mitierracafe.com/. It’s been around since 1941. It has a colorful fun decor and banging awesone Mexican food. It’s also open 24 hours. As an added bonus, it is in a fun market area of San Antonio, Market Square.
For BBQ we left the city and went to Texas Pride. Their bbq is real deal Texas fare (good bbq in Texas comes on butcher paper and never plates). My mom lived in Texas for twenty years and couldn’t stop raving about the brisket. It’s also a renovated old fashioned gas station and has a lot of character. I’m a vegetarian and I thought the cobbler alone was worth the twenty min drive. https://www.texaspridebbq.net/
For more Mexican food, I can’t recommend Pappascitos enough https://pappasitos.com/home/. It was a childhood favorite of mine growing up in Houston and they have a place in San Antonio. My mom and I ate there twice during our four day trip happily. It has homemade tortillas, delicious cocktails,fabulous food, and festive atmosphere!
I also lived in Tucson for a year. Although it is by no means on of the famous places, Teresa’s Mosaic cafe was our favorite mexican place there https://www.mosaiccafes.com/Teresas_Mosaic_Cafe/Teresas_Mosaic_Cafe.html. Delicious food and fantastic margaritas! If you want a Mexican food break, East Coast subs has amazing subs. If you like cherry pepper relish, their’s is amazing. https://eastcoastsupersubs.net/
Hope this helps. So excited for your new home. I love New Orleans and am a little jealous!
SAN ANTONIO – You really should try Mi Tiera in El Marcado (The Market Square). It’s a San Antonio institution and is family run. Also, a huge plus is that they are open 24 hours – you can get breakfast at any time and everything is delicious. They have an awesome patio that is great for people watching. Also, when driving though Texas, you should stop for BBQ – but don’t try a chain like Dickey’s or Rudy’s. The best place are the holes in the wall – they are family run. Also, this is VERY IMPORTANT, while driving through Texas, if you see a Buckee’s, you have to stop, just for the experience. It’s a truck stop? rest stop? restaurant? gift shop? It’s all those things and so much more…and they sell the most awesome t-shirts ever. EVER. Best of luck on your move and exciting new adventure!
Ten cuidado en Cuidad Juarez! Not joking.
While you are in Phoenix you should check out Green
and it’s dessert counter partNomi
! They are some of the best veggie places in town. My whole family who aren’t vegetarian absolutely love them! Hope you have a safe drive.
I second both Mad Hatter’s (my favorite place in SA) and Chris Madrid’s (second favorite place). :)
San Antonio has great Mexican food! Make sure to stop by the Alamo, but then go a few more miles to Market Square where there’s usually street vendors and maybe some live performances, if you’re lucky. :) Safe travels!
I love road trips, hope you make some wonderful discoveries! I echo the person who recommended Essence bakery in Tempe, AZ. In Phoenix Gallo Blanco has amazing guac and tacos and is a fun spot to go to.
on your way to juarez, you should pass through my home town of las cruces, new mexico. you must eat the following:
chile relleno burrito at go burger (https://www.urbanspoon.com/r/196/1028113/restaurant/Go-Burger-Drive-In-Las-Cruces)
tacos al carbon at andele’s dog house (https://www.andelerestaurante.com/the-dog-house.html)
frozen custard at caliche’s frozen custard (https://www.caliches.com/)
there is no possible way you could regret eating at these establishments!
In Phoenix, skip the Bianco’s wait and go to The Parlor instead. It’s pizza perfection, patio perfection, atmosphere perfection. It’s like the best neighborhood restaurant ever, with top notch food in a setting that’s just chic enough but still very relaxed. The rec for Essence is also fantastic, as I’ve stacked her macarons up against Bouchon, Laudere, and Pierre Herme and found them to be better (against all odds!). Phoenix also does ice cream really well (unsurprisingly) so Sweet Republic is worth a go. But if you’re looking for road trip stops and not so much legit eateries, between Phoenix and LA we always stop for a break at Redlands, where there is a Trader Joe’s, Starbucks, and Chipotle all on one corner. It’s a nice quick stop without feeling like you’re eating in a gas station. Chiriaco Summit is a good true road trip stop, with the General Patton Museum, a gas station, and a place to eat. It’s so random it’s awesome. Lastly, if you need gas around Blythe, wait and fill up your tank just over the AZ border at the Texcao – prices drop 20-30 cents per gallon when you enter AZ.
Cafe Bassam and Cafe Callabria in San Diego are a great place to get some coffee! Ortiz’s is a local burrito favorite!
Hi Joy–
I’m from SoCal, but then moved to NOLA for many years, and I am *so* envious that you’re moving there! Now I live in San Antonio so I could definitely fill a whole page with recommendations in both places! While in SA, I would suggest doing breakfast at Mad Hatter’s, a quirky little tea shop in the King William District. There are also a lot of great restaurants in the Pearl Brewery area, including a brand new one named “Cured” where the chef/owner (who was recently “cured” of lymphoma) cures all his own meats in-house.
Let me know if you need someone to hang out with while you’re here!!
I agree with Molly, Dough in San Antonio has amazing pizza!
Also check out Goode Company Seafood just off I-10 and Gessner in Houston. They have wonderful fresh Gulf Coast seafood. Don’t miss the Campechana – it may change your life.
In Tucson (my home!)- lunch at little Cafe Poca Cosa, or dinner at Cafe Poca Cosa- this is not the “Mexican” food you’ll be expecting, but it’s amazing. Get the plato and try three things! Dinner at the Parish is always wonderful as well (plus great cocktails). Tucson is really becoming more and more of a food town- make sure to pick up a copy of Edible Baja Arizona when you’re here!
You’d be making a huge mistake if you didn’t stop at Chris Madrid’s in San Antonio. It’s a dive-ish place that serves some of the best, cheesiest burgers ever.
Between SA and Houston there’s a town called Schulenberg- the meat market there has some great sausage wraps and chopped beef sandwiches.
If you have time for a brewery tour, Shiner is also between SA and Houston :)
I live in Las Cruces, NM…so if you are staying in Tucson it would be a GREAT place to stop for lunch…or longer! PLEASE PLEASE go to the local places the food is SO much better. Yes, La Posta is more famous but not really the best Mexican/Green Chile food you can find. Andele’s Restaurant or even better is their Dog House that is just across the street. Another yummiful place to stop for breakfast (all day) or lunch is The Shed but it isn’t open on Monday or Tuesday. A couple of convenient caffeine stops (as in not too far off the I-10 track) are Milagro’s and Spirit Winds, both are near New Mexico State University campus. A couple of other enjoyable picks, which include sitting outdoors and enjoying the weather and views, might include The Game (awesome Corked Bat appetizer or even better on a burger!) or the Paisano Cafe (in Mesilla). My mouth is squirting just thinking about all the tasty options you have in here!!
Drive safe and have a fun trip!
DEMING, NM- You must stop at Irma’s Mexican Restaurant, it is true New Mexican food in a great place with great owners. Everything is good but the Chile Colorado and Sopapillas are amazing. My mom grew up in Silver City, NM and on all my many visits to NM, this is my favorite place. I know everyone raves about NM green chiles, but my mom and her family grew up on New Mexican Red Chiles and Irma’s is perfect place for it!
Do yourself a culinary favor & stop at Dough in San Antonio https://www.doughpizzeria.com their Neapolitan pizza is Delicious. Everything my husband & I ordered was a sea of wonderful favors… A Must on your road trip!
You might want to check out Roadtrippers.com. They have an app for the iPhone now too. You plug in your route and then choose the categories you’re interested in. It will give you restaurants, attractions, museums, etc. Might be worth looking into.
I have tried those other places people have mentioned in San Antonio, but I would highly recommend that you go to The Granary at the Pearl Brewery. The food is AMAZING. Depending on the day, you may get good ole Texas BBQ that you order by the pound. Other days the menu is more upscale with a nod to TX BBQ. It’s also close to the famed Riverwalk area of San Antonio, but it’s a less cheesy, more lovely landscaped area. You can ride on a river taxi to the touristy part of the Riverwalk and the Alamo. Just bring cash ($20-30) for the boat! I don’t think it’s that expensive for one ticket, but I can’t remember.
How are you planning the trip with your kitty? I’m moving about 7 hours away in a few months, and I’m terrified of how I’m going to handle it with my kitty!
of course the kitty is coming with me! we’ve been taking practice car rides.
TUCSON: Cup Cafe in the Hotel Congress, opens at 7 am. Everything’s good. The bar is great at night too. https://hotelcongress.com/food/
SAN ANTONIO: The old Pearl Brewery complex now houses restaurants, cafes, the CIA cooking school, and a farmer’s market. Ample parking, many options: https://atpearl.com/
Also, I forgot to mention, if you stop in Houston, pay Kenny and Ziggy’s near the Galleria a visit. It’s an authentic New York deli with a huge menu and the best chicken salad sandwich and chicken matzo ball soup in the world. Check it out! Besides, you may need a break from tacos and BBQ…
Lockhart is a just a brief jaunt out of your way on highway 10 between San Antonio and Houston. It’s famous for it’s bbq. Even less out of your way is City Market in Luling. Check out tEXAS Monthly’s review of the 50 best bbq joints, and hit them all on your way through our great state. https://www.texasmonthly.com/lists/50-best-bbq-joints-world
Also, stop off in Marfa. It’s just darling.
Oh goodness, in San Antonio, you might want to try a cheeseburger from Chris Madrid’s (the cheese amazingly oozes out of the confines of the bun)or a famous puffy taco from Henry’s Puffy Tacos.
Since you love love love food, please visit this foodie paradise in either Houston or San Antonio. https://www.centralmarket.com/Home
It’s a grocery store that caters to people who love to celebrate food. They do all sorts of seasonal fun things like a chocolate festival in February, Thrill of the Grill in the summer, and you can basically get samples of a full Thanksgiving meal in November. Try to go on a Saturday, as there will be the best samples available then, including wine.
Definitely stop at Buc-ee’s in Luling, TX on I-10! They have a huge variety of canned jellies, salsas, butters, etc, as well as tons of jerky and kolaches. While you are driving through TX you MUST get some kolaches (it’s a Texas thing, and so delicious!). Buc-ee’s is also very proud of their nice restrooms :)
On 1-10 between SA and Houston, you will have to stop at Bucees. It is the gas station of all gas stations. They literally advertise it like 100 miles away. They have super clean bathrooms, cool snacks and such. I’ve never had them, but they make t-shirts about one of their snacks-Beaver Nuggets. People in TX get THRILLED over Bucees. I don’t know if we should be sad about that or not. Also, The Red Onion has FABULOUS food and shouldn’t be too far off route as you come through town.
San Antonio – La Margarita – downtown – the best margarita EVER and wonderful fajitas!!! it’s also in the marketsquare – you will enjoy walking thru the shops of Mexican memorabilia!!! I agree with Kat avoid Mexico! Nothing outstanding on the Riverwalk to eat, but DO go and walk and float!! Will you have a book signing while in San Antonio???
When you pass through Tucson hit up Time Market for great sandwiches on homemade bread, pizza, coffee, etc. Added bonus: it’s not too far off the I-10!
Don’t know if your route will take you past it but Rock Springs Cafe has the best pies in Arizona (https://www.rockspringscafe.com/) the rest of the food is good too, but the pies are the tops! Have fun on your trip!
I don’t know if your travel schedule is flexible but I definitely recommend giving yourself some more flex room if you can, especially if you are driving by yourself. Driving is a lot more tiring then people realize. Take breaks as you need them and naps. Remember your destination isn’t going anywhere, but driving tired can be as bad as driving drunk in terms of safety!
Safe Journeys to you!
While you are in Houston please stop for coffee at Catalina on Washington Ave. It is hands down the best coffee in Houston! The baristas are very knowledgeable and nice too! For food, I would eat at either Hugos or the original Ninfas. Both are good for your Tex Mex fix!
I absolutely agree about Catalina Coffee (I’m a little bias because my husband works there) and it’s not far from I-10, which you’ll be traveling on.
Tucson and San Antonio both have Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, which is the BEST pizza. It’s my favorite place to eat in NYC (the original one was under the Brooklyn Bridge!) and they’ve branched out to other places. The down side is that they don’t sell by the slice. You have to get an entire pizza. The up side is that you’ll WANT the entire pizza, because it is THAT good!
Suggestion – avoid Ciudad Juarez and stay on the US side of the border in El Paso. Much Safer! My parents live in Las Cruces – 1 hr north of El Paso on Hwy 10 I think. There are some seriously cool eats and shops in Old City Mesilla, which is just outside Las Cruces. Worth a stop/detour depending on your exact route.
I second the stop at any Buc-ees you find. There is one on I-10 at Seguin (past San Antonio). Just look for the signs. Safe travels.
Personally, I think y’all ought to have your peeps contact her peeps and hang out with Big Mama, author of Sparkly Green Earrings and The Antelope in the Living Room and the Big Mama blog. Here’s her list for San Antonio fun and eats: https://thebigmamablog.com/san-antonio/
If you want to taste the best Tex-Mex food EVERRR go to La Fonda on Main in San Antonio. No, it’s not on the River walk. But most restaurants on the river walk are over-rated. Order a margarita (best marg I’ve ever had). You can trust me, I’m Texan :)
In general, any food recommendations, try Southern Living. They have NEVER let me down, and I’ve been to almost all 50 states!
Also, if you’ve ever met a Texan, and have been perplexed by our undying pride, go to the Alamo. It kinda explains why we act like we’re better than everyone, and why we know how important the good things in life are :)
Shilos Deli in San Antonio is a precious long standing German deli in downtown San Antonio, around since 1917. They are known for homemade root beer, deli sandwiches and hot mustard. I really enjoyed the potato pancakes as well. https://schilos.com
If you have time going into/out of San Antonio, you should hit up a Rudy’s for some Texas barbeque- brisket slathered in their homemade sauce is required. Also, you can’t leave Texas without getting breakfast tacos, and one of best places is the Taco Taco Cafe near downtown. They’re not fancy and they’re not good for you- which makes them delicious. If you’re looking for some epic Tex-Mex and margaritas, then you need to hit up Cha Cha’s (there are 3 locations, all equally great). My family’s all time favorite item is the Sabana de Res which is a spicy flank steak, pounded thin and covered in refried beans and broiled cheese. Not for the faint of heart. Last, there are a ton of awesome restaurants and super cool bars in the Pearl Brewery Complex so that would be a fantastic evening side tour if you’re staying for a night in town. Good luck and have fun on your trip!
If you’re going to do Rudy’s, do the original location on I-10 just north of San Antonio… The pit’s been in use for years and years and there’s just no substitute!
Between San Antonio and Houston on I-10 (exit 632) there is a Buccee’s, which is an awesome chain of convenience stores. I know it doesn’t sound exciting, but just trust. It’s a super big deal in Texas. Get a bag of beaver nuggets. They are like Corn Pops on steroids. I always get bouidin and cracklins at Don’s in Scott, La (exit 97 I think), but I’m sure you’ll be able to find plenty of those at your final destination :)
I totally agree with Emily Jean about Bucee’s! They are always very clean! Also when we were in San Antonio we ate a lot of paletas. The El Paraiso brand is made there in SA, you’ll see people with streetcarts selling them! My favorites were Horchata flavor and coconut. :)
Buccee’s is a definite must do! The coolest gas station/convenience store ever. Make sure you get some beaver nuggets! They’re fantastic!
Between San Antonio and LA the best stops for gas and caffeine and candy and jerky and bucc-ee nuggets are Bucc-ee’s stations along I-10 and major roads, make sure you pick up some four cheese sausage for a quick meal in NOLA when you get there.
Hi Joy, Chris Bianco downtown Phoenix has the best pizza. Have a great trip.
I don’t know that area very well, but one place you might check is roadfood.com. They are on The Splendid Table podcast all the time talking about great diners and restaurants around the country.
Lupe Tortilla – the one I’ve been to is in The Woodlands (just north of Houston), but they have locations all over the Houston area. You will want to eat their tortillas by the fistful, and their guacomole is green heaven in a bowl (as chunky or as creamy as you want it), made to order, at your table, witty conversation included. Every time I visit the Houston area, Lupe Tortilla is the one restaurant I absolutely refuse to miss.
On IH 10 coming in to San Antonio, you can go past 1604 towards San Antonio and exit at Fredericksgurg road. Stay on the frontage road towards Wurzbach. On the right side past the Alamo Cafe you will find Mama Margie’s. I like the chicken fajita plate. The Margaritas are supposed to be the bomb. Some hotels around there as well.
Ok don’t judge… But if you’re cool with gummie bears and flamin Cheetos than Dag-Nabbit I’m not guna be ashamed to declare my guilty pleasure from a mountain top….Cracker Barrel…the first one you see! Eat some yum-town biscuits for me cuz that’s somethin they just don’t make here in Chile. Plus!!! It’s win win since the general store/candy shoppe is attached for all you road trip gummie and nostalgic candy needs! Safe travels and happy diva singin in solitude! Never forget you ARE Mariah! Hit those high octaves when no ones around.
Come to Houston on your way to Nawlins. There’s Coppa Osteria, that has great pizza or pasta. Next door is Cloud 10 ice cream, which is awesome! If you’re not in mood for pasta, Torchy Tacos is famous from Austin. Or Dim Sum authetic from Hong Kong. All in Rice Village by Rice University, which is a beautiful neighborhood.
Taco Cabana, anywhere in Texas, but they are all over San Antonio. The best, cheap, authentic mexican food :)
In Houston: the Original Carrabba’s restaurant on Kirby Drive. Great Italian food! Also, they just opened up Grace’s. It has a menu of food reminiscent of all the foods Johnny Carrabba’s grandmother used to make for the family that wasn’t Italian.
Phoenix/tempe AZ… four peaks brewery! Best food best beer! I used to hostess there when i was in school at ASU
Good luck with the move!
Very jealous Joy! Do you seriously and deeply understand how good you have it in the USA??!! So many options and great places to stop when roadtripping. My husband and I have been fortunate enough to head over Stateside a number of times and have traveled some of the route that you’re about to undertake. I won’t give any suggestions though as we think any of your roadside stops and even your service stations are A M A Z I N G!! Did I mention that I was just a tad jealous? Hope the packing is progressing!!!
I lived in Tucson for 10 years so I have lotso suggestions for you! (Most of these are not too far from I-10).
1702: Great, big slices of pizza with an awesome rotating beer selection.
Bison Witches (4th Ave): 4th Ave has a hippie quirky vibe and Bison Witches has the BEST sandwiches on thick homemade bread.
Guero Canelo: The best sonoran Mexican food. The sonoran hot dogs are the ish.
Downtown Tucson (Congress): This area has been experiencing a huge revival and there are so many “hipster” places to grub. Some favorites: Proper, Penca, HUB, Maynards Market… https://www.downtowntucson.org/visit/dining/
Safe travels and best wishes on your big move!
Dough in San Antonio is the best pizza, hands down.