The NFL playoffs descend on four cities next weekend, each of which has a distinctive culinary character. Regardless of whether or not their teams win, the people of Boston, Charlotte, Denver, and Seattle have a lot to celebrate when it comes to food.
Boston
Perhaps the most storied city in the United States, Boston is famous for classic New England fare. Clam chowder tops the list of quintessential Boston dishes, but make sure it’s made with cream—anything else would be heresy. Other staples include fish and chips, lobster, and baked beans. Boston is also home to Union City Oyster House, the longest-running restaurant in the nation. The late celebrity chef Julia Child also spent much of her life in Beantown.
Charlotte
Charlotte might not have many recipes to call its own, but the North Carolina metropolis more than makes up for it with its food industry. Founded in 1937, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts has hung its hat in Charlotte its entire life. Likewise, Mt. Olive Pickles, the largest privately held pickle company in the country, was founded in Charlotte. The city’s biggest claim to fame, however, lies with the pharmacist Caleb Bradham, who invented Pepsi-Cola in a drugstore in 1896.
Denver
Denver boasts a diverse population and an eclectic culinary scene. There’s a huge concentration of Mexican restaurants serving up authentic burritos, tamales and other south-of-the-border favorites across the Mile High City. Of course, Denver is also home to the Denver omelet, an egg omelet with ham, onions, and green bell pepper. The most unique Denver delicacy? That would have to be Rocky Mountain oysters—Google it if you’re not sure what they are.
Seattle
Lying on the Pacific coast, Seattle residents enjoy some of the freshest, most delicious fish in the world. By far the most popular fish enjoyed in the city is salmon—grilled, smoked, baked, or pan-fried. The seaport also boasts a plethora of microbrews for every taste and every occasion. Beer not your thing? Try a cup of coffee. Seattle’s famous for its Joe.