11 Unassuming Restaurants Across America That’ll Blow You Away

We don't always judge a book by its cover, nor a restaurant by its exterior, and these 11 restaurants across the U.S. only further prove that point. From a driftwood shack serving the best conch fritters in Florida to a motel diner with amazing pancakes in Detroit, these establishments offer way more than what meets the eye (on the outside).

1. Clique Restaurant, Detroit, Michigan

Located in the heart of downtown Detroit, this affordable cafe serves breakfast and lunch till 2 p.m. every day but Sunday. Attached to the Rivertown Inn and Suites, the unassuming location is worth a visit. It's just 5 minute walk to the city's Riverwalk Park, so you can enjoy a waterfront stroll after filling up on pancakes and eggs.

2. City Bakery, Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Get your German fix of Bavarian pretzels and Fleishbrok at City Bakery. Its rolls and bread have been a Sheboygan staple since 1939. Perfect for a traditional Wisconsin bratwurst, the brat bun is a must-try.

3. Timber's Edge Bar and Grill, Eveleth, Minnesota

Located in Minnesota's Iron Range—you'll know because there's a handwritten sign that reads "no mine boots" in the restaurant—Timbers Edge is a humble log-and-plank structure just off Route 53. It offers an affordable and expansive menu that's worth making a trip for.

4. B.O.'s Fish Wagon, Key West, Florida

You'll find B.O.'s just off of the central marina, and while it's unassuming, you can't miss it. Decorated with driftwood other found paraphernalia, B.O.'s offers some of the best seafood on the island. Locals love the conch fritters, grouper sandwich, and fish tacos.

5. Saxapahaw General Store, Graham, North Carolina

This "five-star gas station" serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus sells household items and food like a traditional general store. Saxapahaw General Store also accepts call-in orders and offers specials, appeasing all types of travelers.

6. Bresca and the Honeybee, New Gloucester, Maine

This lakeside snack shack is unexpectedly run by a James Beard Award-nominated chef. Open only for the summer season, it's a favorite among swimmers and vacationers. Serving gourmet hot dogs, sandwiches, and elevated snacks, it's the perfect post-dip meal.

7. Rube's Crab Shack, Emmitsburg, Maryland

What looks like a motel is actually one of the best seafood spots in the state. Known for its steamed crabs and all-you-can-eat seafood, this Chesapeake Bay joint is definitely one of the most unassuming restaurants in the state.

8. Pomodori, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Located in the corner of an unassuming plaza off of the main road, Pomodori has some of the best Italian food on the island. It's small but we recommend a cozy table (inside instead of outside on the porch). Italian pasta, parmigiana, and crispy chicken milanese top the favorites list on the menu.

9. White House Sub Shop, Atlantic City, New Jersey

This AC staple has been serving New Jersey loyalists since the 1940s. It's famous for its subs and burgers as well as unique decor, like a towel allegedly used by Frank Sinatra. There are two locations, the original on Arctic Ave. and another in the Taj Mahal casino.

10. Chocolate Maven Bakery, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Easily mistaken for a warehouse, Chocolate Maven serves the best weekend brunch in town. During the week, you can get an equally delicious breakfast or lunch. Sit downstairs where you can watch the bakers hard at work—and don't leave without a to-go pie from the attached bakery.

11. Maid-Rite Sandwich Shoppe, Greenville, Ohio

Get your fix of the Midwestern loose-meat sandwich at this old-school Ohio joint. This unassuming shop does have one odd claim to fame—a Gum Wall where visitors stick chewing gum along one of the exterior walls. Come for the Maid-Rite, stay for the vibe, and leave your gum...

Plan your own trip to one of these unassuming restaurants with Only In Your State's itinerary planner.