Anthony Bourdain’s love for food went beyond just flavors—it was about the stories, the history, and the people behind each dish. He sought out places where every bite carried meaning. Some of these spots were high-end, others were humble, but all of them made a lasting impression on him. If you’re curious about the places that truly resonated with Bourdain, this list is worth exploring.
The French Laundry
Thomas Keller’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Napa Valley isn’t just another eatery; it’s a rite of passage for food lovers. Bourdain called it “the best restaurant in the world, period.” The famous Oysters and Pearls dish? Worth every penny. Booking a table is nearly impossible. But hey, miracles can happen!
Per Se, The Price Of Perfection In New York
New York’s fine-dining crown jewel is not for the faint of heart. Opened in 2004, Per Se is Thomas Keller’s East Coast counterpart to The French Laundry. Bourdain admired its attention to detail, from the hand-picked ingredients to the orchestrated service. He joked about selling a kidney to afford it, but those blue doors led to an experience beyond mere indulgence.
Le Bernardin
New Yorkers don’t mess around with seafood, and neither did Bourdain. Le Bernardin, headed by Eric Ripert, serves fresh fish. Bourdain visited Le Bernardin and praised the seafood preparations on the menu, which is divided into sections such as “Almost Raw,” “Barely Touched,” and “Lightly Cooked.” Situated in Midtown Manhattan, it is in a convenient spot.
Salumi
Nothing says love like slow-cured meats, and Salumi in Seattle delivers. Armandino Batali, father of Mario Batali, founded this tiny deli in 2006, crafting meats with old-world Italian techniques. Bourdain said it was “a holy place for me.” Their sandwiches, such as the porchetta with braised pork shoulder and Calabrian chili chimichurri, have gained a dedicated following.
Russ & Daughters
Since 1914, this legendary appetizing shop has made bagel lovers weak in their knees. It is the first Jewish-owned business to use “& Daughters” in its name. Bourdain included Russ & Daughters in his list of “13 Places to Eat Before You Die,” Known for its hand-sliced smoked fish, caviar, herring, and babka, Russ & Daughters is a hit in the Lower East Side.
Katz’s Delicatessen
Established in 1888, Katz’s doesn’t just serve pastrami—it starts debates. Hand-cut and perfectly spiced, this pastrami on rye with a spread of house-made brown mustard and a sour pickle on the side earned Bourdain’s lifelong devotion. In an essay for “Lonely Planet’s A Moveable Feast,” Bourdain wrote, “…because it’s good pastrami. Period.”
Hot Doug’s
Hot Doug’s turned the humble hot dog into an art form. The menu featured unique creations like truffle-infused duck sausage and foie gras dogs, earning it the title “Sausage Superstore and Encased Meat Emporium.” Bourdain adored this no-frills spot, but sadly, its doors closed in 2014. During its operation, patrons often endured lines exceeding four hours to savor specialties
Joe’s Stone Crab, Miami
Since 1913, Joe’s Stone Crab has been serving up some of the best seafood in Miami. Bourdain praised its legendary stone crabs, served chilled with mustard sauce, alongside perfectly crisp hash browns. The old-school charm and impeccable service make it an essential stop for any seafood lover.
Pastrami Queen
Pastrami Queen has delivered deli magic since 1956. Bourdain promoted this unassuming spot for its peppery, melt-in-your-mouth pastrami. The secret? They steam it just right. For those unable to visit in person, Pastrami Queen offers nationwide shipping through Goldbelly to enjoy their classic New York flavors across the country.
Lotus Of Siam
Who needs a casino when you have Lotus of Siam? It is a hidden Las Vegas gem that wowed Bourdain with its authentic Northern Thai flavors, established in 1999 by Chef Saipin Chutima and her family. The crispy garlic prawns? Legendary. The khao soi? A bowl of heaven. In his show “Parts Unknown,” he described the food as “uniquely superb.”
Ulrich’s 1868 Tavern
Buffalo’s oldest tavern, Ulrich’s 1868, serves up history with a side of bratwurst. During his visit for “No Reservations,” Anthony Bourdain, guided by local musician Nelson Starr, experienced the tavern’s historic ambiance. The wooden bar, beer-soaked for over a century, knows more stories than a grandparent at Thanksgiving.
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