Introducing the Resties: These Are the Best Pit Stop Bites Across the U.S.

For the better part of 6 years, I traveled the country in a 24-foot Itasca Navion and then a self-converted Sprinter van. Seeing the country from behind the wheel was a true highlight of my 30s, and I got to experience firsthand why the adventure truly is in the detours.

One of my favorite aspects of road trip traveling was stopping to eat, finding pit stop bites in every corner and crevice of the country that I likely wouldn't find otherwise. Whether it's a hidden Florida fruit stand, offering the best tropical milkshakes, or what's basically the mecca of cheeses in the Pacific Northwest, we have some of the best places to stop and eat to stay satisfied and fueled on your journey.

To pass on the magic of roadside America, we tapped full-time road-trippers to share their favorite spots across the U.S. for the Resites. For the Pit Stop Bites category, Rachael and Jesse Lyons picked their favorite roadside bites. Known as @thetasteforadventure on Instagram, they've been living and traveling in their RV since 2018 and visited almost every U.S. state and over 40 national parks. So they know a thing or two about the best road trip food you can find in the U.S.

Southeast Winner: Robert Is Here Fruit Stand, Homestead, Florida

This Florida fruit stand near US-1 is a must-stop en route to the Everglades or the Florida Keys. The tropical milkshakes and smoothies are legendary, but take time to peruse the mountains of fresh fruit (including many varieties you've probably never heard of) and local Florida goodies. Behind the stand, you'll find food trucks and a cute petting zoo. The name Robert Is Here is literal; we have seen Robert behind the cashier counter every visit. He's been there since 1959.

Southwest Winner: Miller's Smokehouse, Belton, Texas

Texas is the most iconic state for highways and barbecue. If you're traveling through the Lone Star State, stop at any roadside barbecue shack or trailer to be rewarded with tender brisket, homestyle sides, and a slice of white bread to mop it all up. There's a lot of arguing over who serves the best highway barbecue, but Miller's Smokehouse, near the intersection of Interstates 14 and 35, is a contender. Stop in for brisket, pulled pork, and sausage, but don't forget to stay for dessert.

West Winner: Tillamook Creamery, Tillamook, Oregon

Highway 101 is one of the West Coast's most iconic road trips, and if you're exploring the Oregon Coast, Tillamook Creamery is a must-stop. This flagship is basically Disneyland for cheese lovers. After checking out the exhibits and assembly line, grab some free samples, then head to the dining hall. They serve epic grilled cheese, macaroni and cheese, and, of course, their famous ice cream. Don't ask how many blocks of cheddar Rachael bought at their gift shop.

Midwest Winner: Wall Drug Store, Wall, South Dakota

One of America's most famous rest stops features sprawling gift shops, playgrounds, art galleries, audio-animatronic dinosaurs, and a restaurant. Does Wall Drug serve the best roadside meal in the Midwest? Definitely not, but eating a homestyle hot beef sandwich in a cozy dining room lined with old Western art hits the spot after a long stretch of dusty nothing along I-90. If you only order one thing, make it the cinnamon bun.

Northeast Winner: Day's Crabmeat and Lobster, Yarmouth, Maine

A roadside lobster pound is a quintessential New England experience. Jesse is from Maine, and he says the locals' favorite is Day's Crabmeat & Lobster. This seafood walkup window is on US-1, right off I-95 and down the street from the L.L. Bean boot. Chow down on fried seafood baskets, lobster dinners, and crabmeat rolls on weather-beaten picnic benches by the tide.

Editor's Pick: The Tiny Pony Tavern, Yucca Valley, California

The Tiny Pony Tavern in Yucca Valley, California, is a delightful blend of rustic charm and modern flair, offering a welcoming spot for locals and visitors. This women-owned and operated establishment has transformed a former gun shop into a vibrant community hub, just a short drive from Joshua Tree National Park.

The menu at The Tiny Pony is as diverse as its clientele, featuring everything from hearty smash burgers and duck confit nachos to vegan-friendly options like house-made veggie burgers with tempeh bacon. The tavern also boasts a well-curated drink selection, including California craft beers, nitro-tap Guinness, espresso martinis on tap, and creative cocktails like the “Ho Po” made with mezcal and grapefruit.

The Resties celebrate the best of roadside America; you can view all of the winners here. Want to nominate your favorite pit stops? Fill out the nomination form.