The 10 Best Bachelor Trip Destinations for Food Lovers

Here it is: Your grub-centric guide to vacationing with the guys.

Hannah Norwick

Bachelor parties are a rare opportunity to skip town for some quality hang time with just the dudes. They are also a chance to stuff yourself to the gills with the kinds of food you fantasize about at your desk, or when your lady asks to split a salad instead of the pork belly you really wanted.

Whether it’s actually a proper, blow-out “bachelor vacation” or just a simple weekend with a few old friends, half the excitement is figuring out where you’ll be eating, drinking, and acting like overgrown children. And since bros are just as likely to be obsessed with James Beard Award–winning chefs as breastaurants, don’t be afraid to add a little refinement to the accepted playbook of steakhouses and strip clubs.

Instead of all the tired getaway destinations chalk full of gross bars and all-inclusive buffet trash, we suggest ten cities where you can unleash the elevated man-child within: We’re talking regional barbecue meccas, craft-beer hubs, and places where you can follow up rounds of pre-Prohibition cocktails with a trip to a vegan strip club.

It’s all here, without that bush-league trip to Atlantic City that you’re brother-in-law wanted to take. Without further ado, we present the ultimate guide to bachelor tripping with your food-hound buddies.

Montreal, Quebec

The only non-U.S. city to grace the list is easy to reach for East Coasters and benefits from some good ol’ European tradition (think looser attitudes about strip clubs and drinking practices, plus some pretty interesting architecture and people with French accents). This metropolitan city is also a hub of lusty, stick-to-your-ribs Quebecois cuisine, with foie-gras and maple syrup swapping in and out roles as toppings, mains, and desserts. The city is any food geek's paradise, shaping trends that migrate south and utilizing ingredients in ways that showcase their natural flavors. Also worth noting: We had a buddy who broke his ribs in Canada once, and he had only a stripper in six inch stilettos to thank for that. That’s right, we said thank.
Don’t Miss
Joe Beef Find French-Canadian fare at this buzzy favorite of both locals and visitors. Seafood and steak is where it’s at when ordering off the daily changing menu scrawled across a chalkboard—and of course, you can't leave without trying the Quebecois version of a Double Down: two slabs of fried foie gras sandwiching bacon and cheddar. 2491 Notre Dame West (514-935-6504, joebeef.ca) Liverpool House The same Montreal heavy hitters (David McMillan and Frédéric Morin) behind Joe Beef dole out fresh oysters, Old World wines, and floral gin and tonics at the steakhouse-style joint next door. Bring the boys for a club-house feel and highbrow grub, sans the pretension. 2501 Notre-Dame West (514-313-6049, joebeef.ca) Au Pied de Cochon Martin Picard is the rock star of Montreal grub, known for showcasing all things porcine and maple. Menu items include terrines, foie gras, pigs head for two, and silky, meaty poutine. Order the daily specials and try not to totally over do it (psych, that's what you're here for). 536 Duluth Est (514-281-1114, restaurantaupieddecochon.ca) Schwartz's This Montreal Hebrew Delicatessen is known for their “World Famous Smoked Meat.” Sandwiches are best ordered medium fat with a heaping sides of sour pickles, fries, and a cherry soda. 3895 Boulevard St-Laurent (514-842-4813, schwartzsdeli.com) Milos Serving some of the freshest fish you can find in the city, Milos is a solid option for a classier dinner. Fish is flown in daily, displayed on ice-laden trolleys, and priced by the pound. Opt for the sea salt cooked option, which is cracked table-side before being served. 5357 ave. du Parc (514-272-3522, milos.ca) L'entrecote Walk in, sit down, order steak frites (grilled strip loin, hand-cut fries, and secret sauce). This French bistro is more than 15 years old and is a shining beacon of meat and potatoes done right. 2022 Peel Street (514-281-6492, lentrecotestjean.com)
Drink Here:
La Distillerie This dimly lit, dark wooded bar serves boozy concoctions in ginormae mason jars. Go for a classic Old Fashioned or house-made bacon-infused creation. 300 Rue Ontario Est (514-288-7915, pubdistillerie.com) Dieu du Ciel This inviting microbrewery and brassiere makes its own beers on premises. Camp out for an afternoon and try inventive pours Blanche du Paradis, a Belgian-style wit brewed with coriander seeds and Curaçao orange peels. 29 Laurier West (514-490-9555, dieuduciel.com) Brutopia This microbrewery adds to Montreal’s burgeoning craft-beer scene, with eight house beers on draft at all times. 1219 Crescent (514-292-9277, brutopia.net)
Stuff to do Between Meals:
Jean Talon Market Continue grazing at one of Montreal's most popular markets, where you can peruse various food vendors, sample gooey maple syrup frozen into ice, and pick up souvenirs like local brews you can't buy at home
Memphis, Tennessee

Lauded for its signature style of barbecue, Memphis proudly boasts multiple versions of the city’s most notable contribution to American cuisine. Though the slow-cooked stuff can be made from an array of proteins (chicken, beef or turkey), it is pork that takes center stage in Tennessee. Most commonly, ribs and shoulders are pit-cooked with either a dry rub (a blend of spices applied previous to cooking) or a wet sauce (brushed on before, during and after cooking). Whatever your barbecue fantasies may be, Memphis has got it covered. Ask any local and they’ll be happy to send you to one of their favorites—Corky’s, Rendezvous Charcoal Ribs, Cozy’s Corner, Payne’s, Bar-B-Q Shop, Rum Boogie Cafe, Pig on Beale—to name just a few. And after you’ve had your fill of pig, don’t fret—there’s still plenty else the Bluff City has to offer. Check out our 10 favorites right here, as well as some more picks below.
Don’t Miss
Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen Situated inside of an unassuming house on Brookhaven Circle, this Italian spot sources its ingredients from local farms and its very own back garden. Southern Italian doesn’t mean Sicilian cuisine here—with menu items like Maw Maw’s ravioli, there’s a touch of Tennessee in the execution. 712 West Brookhaven Circle (901-347-3569, andrewmichaelitaliankitchen.com) Gus’s World Famous Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken Dark or light, breast or thigh, leg or wing? Why choose? Order each with sides of fried green tomatoes, collards, slaw, mac and cheese, and fried pickles with Ranch dressing. 730 S. Mendenhall (901-767-2323, gusmendenhall.com) Dyer’s This burger-centric diner is open until 5am on Friday and Saturdays. Drop in late (or early depending on your perspective) and order a burger fried in a vat of oil. It is flat-out awesome. 205 Beale Street (901-527-3937, dyersonbeale.com) Gibson’s Donuts Grab a cab to this 24-hour, neon-lighted donut shop for Memphis’s best donuts. You won't regret the trip. 760 Mount Moriah Road (901-682-8200) Soul Fish Cafe This local favorite specializes in po' boys and all things fried catfish. Po boy selections include smoked pork, blackened chicken, and famous fried catfish. 862 South Cooper (901-725-0722, soulfishcafe.com)
Drink Here
Wild Bills Order a quart of cheap beer and saddle up to a table filled with folks from all walks of life. The beer's cold and the air’s charged with soulful guitars riffs and warbling blues. 1580 Vollintine Ave (901-726-5473) Mollie Fontaine Lounge Located within a two-story old Victorian mansion, this lounge oozes with the possibilities for a scandalous night spent reclining on leather upholstered low-slung couches under hazy blue lighting. 679 Adams Ave (901-524-1886, molliefontainelounge.com) The Cove Though the space channels a 1950s Happy Days vibe from the facade, it doles out inspired cocktails from behind a nautical themed bar. Order the Hot Lips (Cachaçha rum, tomato and lime juices, Tabasco, Worcestershire, pepper, celery salt) or a Memphis Mule (vodka, crème de cassis, lime, soda water). 2559 Broad (901-730.0719, thecovememphis.com) The Flying Saucer This cavernous beer hall offers a large selection of craft suds at reasonable prices. It also has nachos. 130 Peabody Place (901-523-8536; beerknurd.com)
Worth Mentioning
Hollywood Disco for 40-ounce beers and a dance club scene; Brookhaven Pub to catch the game.
Stuff to do Between Meals
Goner Records Dig in the crates at this rare vinyl record store/ label featuring a shrine to Elvis impersonators. 2152 Young Avenue (901-722-0095; goner-records.com) Hi-Tone Cafe Catch a show with acts from indie to death metal and everything in between. 1913 Poplar Ave (901-278.8663, hitonememphis.com) Graceland Obviously. Just go. 3734 Elvis Presley Boulevard (901-332-3329, elvis.com/graceland)
Las Vegas, Nevada

Skip the white tiger that mauled that magician and those blue men dudes, as well as all those shitty package-deal options. If you are going to do Vegas right, then plan on tapping into some wildly fun dive bars and awesome dirt cheap food that can be found beyond the Strip. The upside to a Vegas bachelor vacation is that you can audible to boobs and Black Jack if that’s the way the night’s heading, but also take things in a completely different direction: The anti-Vegas, Vegas vacation. We polled a chef, a regular schmo, and one of our own Vegas veterans, and here’s what we got. If you're pondering Hard Rock as an option, just don't.
Don’t Miss
Marche Bacchus This wine store, French Bistro mash-up is great for picking up a bottle of vino to take back to the hotel and for grabbing brunch, lunch, or dinner. Fat-kid options include Kobe beef hot dogs, lobster salad croissants, pork belly Benedict, and moule frites. 2620 Regatta Drive #106 (702-804-8008, marchebacchus.com) In-N-Out Burger The West Coast burger darling has a super-sized location just off the Strip. Order one animal-style. Obviously. 4888 South Dean Martin Drive (800- 786-1000, in-n-out.com) The Buffet at the Bellagio With so many buffets to choose from, it’s hard to know where you should be spending your time stuffing yourself silly. The Bellagio happens to be one buffet that packs some serious bang for your buck. Go for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and make your $17–$30 count. 3600 Las Vegas Blvd S (888-987-6667, bellagio.com) Lotus of Siam Find Northern Thai and Bangkok cuisine at this off-the-strip gem, widely touted as the best Thai restaurant in America. The menu has basically everything you could ask for, from classic curries to noodles, dumplings, skewers, and seafood. 953 E. Sahara Ave, Suite A5 (702-735-3033, saipinchutima.com) Hot N Juicy Crawfish Choose your seasoning, decide on the heat, and then pick which crustacean (snow crab, lobster, clams, shrimp, crawfish) you want served with a side of corn and potatoes. 4810 Spring Mountain Road (702-891-8889, hotnjuicycrawfish.com) Raku This James Beard nominee is known for robata-style dining (think charcoal-grilled Japanese fare). If it’s the price-fixe option that you want (served as 10 or 15 course options), you’ll have to call ahead for a reservation. 5030 W.Spring Mountain Rd #2 (702-367-3511, raku-grill.com) Buffet at the Mirage Hotel Those in the know say that the buffet at the Mirage is a worthy contender in the ocean of all-you-can eat dining that exists on the strip. Check out the $24.99 champagne brunch, where you can pop bottles before noon. The Mirage Hotel and Casino, 3400 S. Las Vegas Blvd (702-791-7111, mirage.com)
Drink Here
Double Down Saloon “Live music. Pool. Pinball. Hot chicks. Bums, punks, hipsters, bohemians, rockabilly greasers and regular joes. Touring bands and Hollywood types kicking back away from the tourists. Always expect the unexpected.” Want that dirty Vegas feel? You’ll definitely get it here. 4640 Paradise Road (702-791-5775, doubledownsaloon.com) Public House This restaurant inside the Venetian is helping to bring the craft-beer revolution to Vegas, with more than 200 suds to choose from. 3355 South Las Vegas Boulevard (702-407-5310, publichouselv.com)
Stuff to do Between Meals
Pinball Hall of Fame Take a break from the booze and boob madness at this epic pinball mecca. Displaying the world’s largest pinball collection, there’s over 500 hundred games, most of which are available for play. 1610 E. Tropicana (pinballmuseum.org)
Charleston, South Carolina

The James Beard foundation has recognized this Southern city as a culinary powerhouse for some time now. Much of that exposure is due to regional mastermind Sean Brock (McCrady’s and Husk), who has reinvigorated excitement about a food culture that was always vibrant in tradition and local crops. Add to that top-notch Low Country grubbing, a list of distilleries, shady palms, and lots of sweet Carolina girls, and you've got yourself a great bachelor-party destination. The city is a transportive step back into the old South, with tree-lined streets boasting genteel mansions. Life is slower in the Southern city by the sea, but that doesn't mean Chas hasn't kept pace with the drinking and food movements outside of it's preserved perimeters; It just so happens that Charleston is rated one of America’s booziest cites.
Don’t Miss
Hominy Grill Robert Stehling (James Beard award winner for Best Chef in the Southeast in 2008) helms the kitchen at this local favorite. The chef serves only the freshest local and seasonal fare in dishes like shrimp and grits, pimento cheese, and fried chicken biscuits with sausage gravy. 207 Rutledge Avenue (843-937-0930; hominygrill.com) McCrady’s Getting a table at lauded chef Sean Brock’s restaurant can be tough, so grabbing some bar snacks and a cocktail might be more feasible if you're not lucky enough to eat. The drink menu is divided into categories Classics, Originals and From the Farm. We'd opt for a Buffalo Trace Negroni or The Last Word (Hayman’s Old Tom Gin, green Chartreuse, Maraschino liqueur and lime) at the pine wood bar. Brock's other spot, Husk, is also excellent. 2 Unity Alley (843-577-0025, mccradysrestaurant.com) Glass Onion Blue plate specials and overstuffed sandwiches make this unassuming roadside soul food kitchen worth a visit. Go for lunch, order a round of po' boys, some fried chicken, and a plate of cornbread before adding on quail, catfish, and oysters—all battered and flash fried. 1219 Savannah Hwy (843-225-1717, ilovetheglassonion.com) Bigger Fish Camp At this reincarnation of the Bowen’s Island Restaurant, you can look at the love notes patrons have scrawled across the walls of a screened-in deck (on 18-foot stilts), all while gazing at jumping dolphins in Folly Creek. A bottomless order of roasted oysters will set you back a mere $21.50, and hushpuppies go for $4.25. 1870 Bowens Island Rd (843-795-2757, bowensislandrestaurant.com) Steamy Buns Go for Sticky Bun Sundays as an antidote to whatever goes down the night before. If pecan-encrusted confections aren’t your thing, there are also savory scones and plenty of other options for assuaging the hangover. 73 Spring Street (843-327-2621, wildflourpastrycharleston.com)
Worth Mentioning
F.I.G. is a locavore's dream, where you can order entrees like suckling pig confit and mustard-crusted snapper to share. Cypress Lowcountry Grille offers housemade charcuterie, lard biscuits, pork schnitzel and a $39 price fixe option.
Drink Here
The Tattooed Moose Housed inside an old soul-food joint, this dive bar serves up $1.50 Pabst from below a mounted moose head. 1137 Morrison Drive (843-277-2990, tattooedmoose.com) Cocktail Club We'll excuse the fact that the bar refers to itself as "farm to shaker." Is that a thing now? The spot has a rooftop terrace, a secret swinging bookcase, leather couches, a faux fireplace, and solid cocktails. If you feel like ponying up 300 bucks you can join the club and skip the queue, though its probably not worth it for a weekend romp. 479 King Street (877-231-1562, thecocktailclubcharleston.com) AC’s Bar and Grill This dive serves food late, has a pool table, and is a proud favorite of locals and weirdos alike. 467 King Street (877-577-6742, acsbar.com) The Royal American Take home a plastic printed souvenir cup after downing one of the gigantic slushy booze drinks. Regional charm, an old juke box, and outdoor seating make this one worth a visit. 970 Morrison Drive (843-817-6925, theroyalamerican.com)
Stuff to do Between Meals
Irvin House Vineyards Home to the Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka Distillery. Tastings for the distillery are only $6 for six of the 15 flavors of Firefly Vodka, Sea Island Rums, Sweet Tea Bourbon, and Southern Accents Liqueurs. 6775 Bears Bluff Road (fireflyvodka.com)
Portland, Oregon

Portlandia may have solidified the city's reputation as the Williamsburg of the West, but that doesn't stop most people who travel there from being blown away by the food scene. The scrappy bar and restaurant hub is run by a cast of talented young guns and Canadian-tuxedo–wearing hipsters (with smaller beards and less pretension than their BK counterparts). Seasonal fare and local brews—both of the pick-you-up and knock-you-down variety—are doled out by tattooed dudes and chicks with asymmetrical haircuts. For those who want to dig deeper into the beer scene, there are 32 breweries (Deschutes, Full Sail) within city limits. And for those who want to bro out, Portland-style, there's also the nation’s first vegan strip club, Casa Diablo (quinoa, diary-free chili cheese fries, and 100% certified-organic tush), making this hippy-dippy capital prime for the party.
Don’t Miss
Ned Ludd The weekly changing menu showcases the ingredients of purveyors from the Pacific Northwest. Find albacore tuna, roasted trout, and pasture-raised hen, as well as the Patton Oswald–approved chocolate chip cookies and milk. 3925 Northeast Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard (503-288-6900, nedluddpdx.com) The Woodsman Tavern Plates of country ham (from North Carolina, Indiana, and Kentucky) are served with sweet butter, baguettes, and pickles, as well as selections from an oyster raw bar, fried cauliflower, grilled rabbit liver toasts, smoked shrimp, and crispy pork shank. 4537 Southeast Division St (971-373-8264, woodsmantavern.com) Laurelhurst Market This butcher shop and restaurant offers moule frites, eight varieties of a la carte steaks, and meaty starters like lamb rillettes, marrow bones with pretzels, and veal sweatbreads. 3155 E. Burnside (503-206-3097, laurelhurstmarket.com) LePigeon Go for the burger, if you can get one (they only make a limited number each night). The highbrow patty is served with butter lettuce and blue-cheese dressing. If you miss out on the heart-slowing monster, there’s plenty else to choose from, like beef-cheek bourguignon, lobster noodles, and smoked tomato tripe stew. French cuisine done Portland style. 738 E. Burnside (503-546-8796, lepigeon.com) Zach’s Shack Tube steaks are loaded with an array of toppings (cream cheese, tomatoes, olives, chili) and sport regional names. There are also sausages, cheddar jalapeno fries, and a regular hot dog eating contest. 4611 Southeast Hawthorne Blvd (503-233-4616, zachsshack.com)
Worth Mentioning
Por Que No for sorta pricey Mexican cuisine made by some talented white dudes, plus dangerously good margaritas; Voodoo Donuts for the bacon maple bar (the Pepto donut and Nyquil fritter are no more); Pine State Biscuits for The Reggie (buttermilk batter fried chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, and sausage gravy on a scratch-made biscuit).
Drink Here
Clyde Common Drop in for happy hour (Mon–Fri, 3–6pm) and grab a couple cocktails and a beer. The whiskey selection is deep (around 70 on the list) and the six absinthes are served with a sugar cube and water. The food is also far from mediocre bar fare, and there is a late-night menu Mon–Sat. 1014 Southwest Stark Street (503-228-3333, clydecommon.com) Kask According to cocktail historian David Wondrich, it’s the punch of the day that you should be ordering at this bar supported by a pile of rubble (literally, the bar sits on stacks of wire-supported rocks). 1215 SW Alder Street (503-241-7163) Union Jacks This Portland institution proudly serves up jello shots and naked chicks with tons of tattoos. It’s the Suicide Girls in the flesh rather than just on your computer screen. 938 E. Burnside (503-236-1125, unionjacksclub.com)
Stuff to do Between Meals
Doug Fir Lounge at the Jupiter Hotel Go for the live music and also find a late-night food menu, lots of booze, and a weird 1950s modern-retro vibe—channel the Jetsons if they lived in a log cabin. 830 E. Burnside (503-231-WOOD, dougfirlounge.com Second Run Beer Theaters For cheap movies, beer, and food. Read more here.
Austin, Texas

If Tex-Mex cuisine, smoked meats, and a stacked music scene are your thing, then Austin’s should be at the top of your list. Flights from across the country are pretty affordable with few layovers, and public buses make transportation around the city easy. The home of the Longhorn campus is steeped in a competitive barbecue tradition—notorious heavy-hitters like Salt Lick, Louie Mueller’s, Franklin, Stubs, Iron Works, and Lockhart duke it out as the ultimate wielders of all things brisket, ribs, and loins. And while old-school stalwarts have defined the barbecue-heavy city for decades, a crop of newcomers are contributing variety to the smoke-house community. Add to that some down-home charm, a vibrant bar scene on 6th Street, and festivals like SXSW, and you’ll be happy you opted out of Atlantic City.
Don’t Miss
The Noble Pig Breakfast is served until noon and lunch until close. The signature sandwich—The Noble Pig—is made with spicy ham, pulled pork, provolone, and bacon, but locals say it’s the seared beef tongue that shouldn’t be missed. 11815 620 N. Suite 4 (512-382-6248, noblepigaustin.com) Easy Tiger This bake shop and beer garden offers house-made sausages, cured meats, and beef jerky, as well as beer cheese, pretzels and savory kolaches (a Slavic pastry with fillings like corned beef, sauerkraut, and Gruyère). You'll also find outdoor seating, 30 drafts, and 25 whiskeys. 709 East Sixth Street (512-614-4972; easytigeraustin.com) Parkside Chef Shawn Cirkiel serves crab fritters, fried egg sandwiches, and marrow bones from the first floor of this two-story restaurant and lounge. 301 East 6th St (512-474-9898, parkside-austin.com) Stubbs A name synonymous with all things Austin and barbecue. Whether you opt for brisket, ribs, pork loin, or sliced beef, go for a combo and throw in some okra, mashed sweet potatoes, and serrano cheese spinach. 801 Red River (512-480-8341, stubbsaustin.com) Live Oak Barbecue Specializing in African-American wet-style barbecue from East Texas, this family-run joint is the only place in town serving mutton ribs. Open since 1940, it has creative daily specials, with past including pork loin stuffed with sweet kraut, smoked duck tamales, and pulled-pork chili Frito pie. 2713 East 2nd St (liveoakbbq.net)
Worth Mentioning
24 Diner for late bites, long happy hours, and bloody Marys; Salt Lick, Franklin, Iron Works, and Lockhart for barbecue. Take the self-guided tour and find your favorites.
Drink Here
The Jackalope Fight off a hangover with a Guinness bloody Mary and take a photo on the oversized jackalope out front. Known as Austin’s most notorious dive bar, there’s a solid happy hour, big ass cheeseburgers, and $1 tall boys if you ride a bike. 404 East 6th (512-472-3663, jackalopebar.com) Yellow Jacket Social Club This wooded bar is decked out with a huge open backyard and a glowing state of Texas sign. Order cocktails and a sandwich if you’re still hungry after all the 'cue. 1704 East 5th Street (512-480-9572, yellowjacketsocialclub.com) Draught House For the brewlover, this beer garden displays ABVs, prices, and size of suds on the menu. The selection is deep, for sampling into the wee hours. 4112 Medical Parkway (512-452-6258, draughthouse.com)
Worth Mentioning
Mean-Eyed Cat because Johnny Cash is king and you can pay him tribute at this shrine to the legend; 6th Street Area because it shuts down to traffic and becomes a drunken pedestrian paradise. Most bars are without cover, some have rooftop patios, and many have great happy hours and drink specials. The drawback: Obnoxious college kids.
Stuff to do Between Meals
Hole in the Wall Solid spot for live music and pool. 2538 Guadalupe Street (holeinthewallaustin.com) Barton Springs Pool This spring-fed pool, located inside Zilker Park, is constantly 68 degrees and full of people hanging out. 2101 Barton Springs Rd; (512-476-9044, ci.austin.tx.us)
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Recently, it’s felt like repping the Midwest was almost cool again. Americana is having its renaissance, and it’s not in that creepy, "let's eat Freedom fries" sort of way. The Brew City is all about getting dirty with hard-scrabble beer drinking and cheese-curd face stuffing. If you’re looking for a no-pretense booze and food fest, Milwaukee is for you. The city’s stocked with breweries (Lakefront, Stonefly, Sprecher—not to mention Miller, of course), bars, and a slew of dining options to boot. Throw in the location on the lake, some classic German grub, and a pre-Prohibition dice and drinking tradition, and you’ve got the perfect destination for a hilarious (and not wildly expensive) bender.
Don’t Miss
Kopp’s Frozen Custard Although the frozen custard is the draw at this grill and soda-fountain joint, the “jumbo burger” is also worth making a trip for. 5373 N. Port Washington Rd (414-961-3288, kopps.com) Solly’s Grille Around for over 75 years, this humble greasy spoon sports a wrap-around porch and checkerboard tables. The birthplace of the butter burger—a regional Milwaukee treat—is made with 100% sirloin, Wisconsin butter, and stewed onions. 4629 N. Port Washington Rd (414-332-8808) Karl Ratzsch’s Milwaukee is known for its thriving German food and drink culture, which Ratzch’s has aced since 1904. Classics like sauerbraten, roast goose shank, and multiple types of schnitzel are served on white tablecloth-covered tables situated below exposed wooden rafters. 320 E. Mason Street (414-276-2720, karlratzsch.com) Odd Duck This new Bay View area restaurant is cranking out a daily changing menu of seasonally inspired dishes. Housemade charcuterie includes duck rillettes, country pate, and pancetta, while other interesting menu items include a seafood curry made with prawns, mussels, and tamarind, and a pork belly bulgogi with rice cakes and a quail egg. 2352 S Kinnickinnic Ave (414-763-5881, oddduckrestaurant.com) Crazy Water This small, cozy space inside of an old house can get pretty jam-packed, making it hard to secure a table. Call ahead for a reservation and find whimsical presentations on this meat and seafood centric menu. 839 S. 2nd Street (414-645-2606, crazywaterrestaurant.com)
Worth Mentioning
The Milwaukee Public Market for a heap of food vendors, beer, and the roof deck. The lobster roll from St. Paul Fish Company.
Drink Here
Wolski’s Tavern Bringing a coupon from the Lakefront Brewery tour (see below) scores you a gratis beer at this 100-year-old family run bar. Find pool, darts, and free popcorn along with local craft beers, plus classics like Schlitz and Bells. 1836 North Pulaski Street (414-276-8130, wolskis.com) Koz’s There's a pool table, pork rinds, and an old juke box, as well as four lanes for mini-bowling in the back room. The bowling league, which takes place every Thursday night, is apparently open to newcomers. 2078 South 7th Street (414-383-0560) Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge Open since 1938, it’s the traditional Wisconsin-style Old Fashioneds (made with brandy instead of whiskey) that you’ll want to order at this dimly lit lounge. It’s so dark inside the bar, checks are presented on lighted trays. 1579 South Ninth Street (414-383-2620 bryantscocktaillounge.com) Hi Hat Lounge and Hi Hat Garage The lounge and garage are located directly next door to each other, making up a space with outdoor seating, live music, DJs, and grub. 1701 North Arlington Place (414-220-8090, hihatlounge.com) Old German Beer Hall Located in the middle of Old World Third Street, this beer hall sports taps pouring beers straight from Munich, and urinals with soccer goals. 1009 North Old World Third Street; (414-226-2728, oldgermanbeerhall.com)
Worth Mentioning
Puddlers Hall for being Milwaukee’s second oldest tavern with a storied past; Cans for a vast selection of canned beers, plus Tetris, Ms. Pac Man, pool, and a build-your-own bloody Mary bar.
Stuff to do Between Meals
Lakefront Brewery Tour, 1872 North Commerce St (414-372-8800, lakefrontbrewery.com). You can do Miller, too, to see how major American macro-brew gets made, but this'll give you some more local flavor.
Seattle, Washington

Yet another city that has garnered some serious food credibility via the James Beard Foundation ( as well as Frank Bruni in the New York Times), Seattle benefits from its location—a temperate rainforest with some crazy-ass ferns and mushrooms. The unique dining culture is both casual and ambitious at the same time, benefiting heavily from the spoils of the land and sea (Seattle is lousy with Dungeness crab, salmon, apples, and all sorts of foraged fare). Eclectic influences from Latino, Polynesian, and Asian communities inflect cuisine with innovative flourishes. Shucking bivalves is transformed into an art in this city, where after dusk, unmarked doors beckon those in-the-know into dimly lit spaces perfect for swilling a cocktail and sucking down oysters.
Don’t Miss
Spinasse Specializing in Northern Italian cuisine from the Piedmont region, this restaurant is best known for its housemade pastas. Dishes like Trenette con pomodori are served with heirloom tomato and basil while the Tajarin (hand cut egg pasta) can be made with meaty ragu or simple butter and sage. 1531 14th Avenue (206-251-7673, spinasse.com) Salumi’s This restaurant location showcases the cured meats of their original salumeria. Conveniently located right by the train station, its worth stopping by for sandwiches on the way in and out of the city. Weekly specials (like the oxtail sandwich) shouldn’t be missed. 309 Third Ave South (206-621 8772, salumicuredmeats.com) Revel This moderately priced Korean gem is helmed by two Alain Ducasse alums (Rachel Yang and Seif Chirchi). Steaming smoked tea noodles are served with pickled raisins and roasted duck, while Albacore tuna comes with fennel kimchi and escarole rice. 403 N 36th St (206-547-2040, revelseattle.com) Walrus and the Carpenter Named for a Lewis Carroll verse, place may look at first glance to be nothing more than a gussied-up oyster bar. Though it does offer immaculation selections on the half shell, it also showcases prepared dishes like brandade, grilled sardines, mussel tartine, and steak tartare. 4743 Ballard Ave NW (206-395-9227, thewalrusbar.com) Madison Park Conservatory Stop in for brunch with the guys at this American bistro heavy on seasonal and local fare. Go for the deviled eggs with Dungeoness crab and pimenton to start before navigating the menu of salmon, quail, and lamb. The signature egg sandwich swaps out bacon in favor of pork belly—a breakfast power play. 1927 43rd Ave (206-324-9701, madisonparkconservatory.com)
Worth Mentioning
Seatown for raw oysters, smoked fish and rotisserie meats; Oddfellows for baked goods, snacks, and cocktails.
Drink Here
Knee High Stocking Co. “Kindly speak-easy unless the bartender says it is okay.” It's hidden inside a house with no sign out front, so ring the doorbell with the tiny placard for entry. Reservations (by text) are recommended. 1356 East Olive Way; (206-979-7049, kneehighstocking.com) Tavern Law Another speakeasy that's annoying to enter (someone has to guide you through the faux bank vault door to enter), this classic cocktail bar delivers once you get inside. It's kitted out with early 20th century antiques and looks like the Hogwarts library. Buzz to go upstairs and find a secret staircase and lounge waiting for you. 1406 12th Avenue (206-322-9734, tavernlaw.com) Rob Roy This pre-Prohibition saloon has free Goldfish during happy hour, shelves of records for the turntable, and a reel-to-reel tape player. There’s also a copper pot still, leather on the walls, and a mean cocktail program. 2332 2nd Ave (206-956-8423, robroyseattle.com) Cowgirls Expect peanut shells on the floor and girls dancing on the bar in chaps. There are plenty of domestics to swill and a mechanical bull to ride for some post-game celebrating. If you’re thinking Coyote Ugly, you’re not far off. 421 1st Ave South (206-340-0777, cowgirlsinc.com) Bathtub Gin & Co Another speakeasy to grace the list, but when in Seattle... The space is tiny—holding only about 20 people—but that just adds to the secretive vibe of the place. Sip simple, well-prepared cocktails while roasting the bachelor in intimate quarters. 2205 2nd Avenue (206-728-6069, bathtubginseattle.com)
Stuff to do Between Meals
Pike Place Market Seattle's famous fish market, decked out with food vendors, clothes, and restaurants, as well as some of the West Coast's freshest seafood. 85 Pike Street (206-682-7453, pikeplacemarket.org)
St. Louis, Missouri

This bustling music-and-food hub on the levee is a convenient central U. S. location for friends from both coasts to get to. It’s also exploding with a Southern-inflected food culture, a growing craft cocktail scene, and—if you want to be super bro-ey 'bout things—Budweiser (touring the brewery and seeing the Clydesdales is actually pretty cool, even if you're a Bud hater). The city has also produced some weirdo-deliciousness in the form of toasted ravioli, Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, and provel cheese (provolone, cheddar and swiss swirled together) used on everything from pizzas to salads. Then there are a slew of off cut meats like pork steaks (thinly cut shoulder), brain (an old German classic still available at Ferguson’s Pub), snout sandwiches, and the regional “St. Paul’s Sandwich” (a $1–$3 take on egg foo young wedged between slices of Wonderbread, available at most dirt-cheap chop-suey joints around town). Oh, and gambling on river boats when you're done eating.
Don’t Miss
Carl’s Drive In Drop by for a famous griddle burger, a side of cheese fries, and housemade root beer. These crispy-edged smashed burgers are the best the city has to offer and can be topped with chopped onion, lettuce, tomato, and bacon. 9033 Manchester Road (314-961-9652) Sydney Street Cafe Located in historic Benton Park, this James Beard nominated cafe is housed inside a century-old storefront. Dishes like corned sweetbread hash, lobster turnovers, and rabbit rissole make the menu options eclectic and inspired. Pan-roasted redfish benefits from Southern influences, utilizing ham hock to intensify stocks and throwing in some dumplings for good measure. 2000 Sidney Street (314-771-5777, sidneystreetcafe.com) FarmHaus Stop in for the Blue Plate special (Mon–Thu) at lunch, which costs only $10 and includes a spinach salad, quick pickled vegetables, and a glass of tea. With a dish per day, Monday is fried chicken, mac and cheese, and smashed taters, while Wednesday is bacon-wrapped meatloaf, Pappy’s BBQ reduction, and glazed carrots. 3257 Ivanhoe Avenue (314-647-3800, farmhausrestaurant.com) Niche and Taste Both of Gerard Craft’s restaurants are worth a visit, and since they are conveniently located right next to one another, you might not have to choose. Call ahead for reservations at each, as they are popular spots and fill up fast. Niche, 1831 Sidney St (314-773-7755 nichestlouis.com); Taste, 4584 Laclede St (314-361-1200, tastebarstl.com) Pappy’s Smokehouse Ribs are dry-rubbed and slow-smoked over apple and cherry wood, then served with two sides. There’s also pulled pork, beef brisket, spicy sausage, and turkey breast. Order one of each and grab extra napkins. 3106 Olive Street (314-535-4340, pappyssmokehouse.com)
Worth Mentioning
Bogarts for ribs and barbecue; Five Bistro for the chef’s tasting menu or a nicer dinner option.
Drink Here
Blood and Sand This members-only cocktail club is worth joining just to get a taste of some of TJ Vytlacil’s creations. Here’s the game plan: Out-of-towners can obtain a one time membership (available Mon–Thu) by calling ahead. This gives you access to the bar on specific days, space-allowing. 1500 St. Charles Street (314-241-7263, bloodandsandstl.com) Colorado Bob’s Ship of Fools If you’re looking for a little local flavor, wander into this watering hole and chance a glimpse of Bob himself (he’s easily spotted in his sailor uniform, wheelchair, and wooden arm). The smoking ban seems to be a joke in this bar and if you like Jimmy Buffet, you’ll love this spot—the bar’s devoted to the cheeseburger-loving crooner. 3457 Morgan Ford Road (314-772-7564) Broadway Oyster Bar Go for the N'orleans feel, some oysters, and a whole lot of blues and jazz. 736 South Broadway (314-621-8811, broadwayoysterbar.com) Beale on Broadway The ultimate stop for all things blues. The covers are fairly cheap and you can listen and sip out-of-doors. The drinks are pretty standard, but the music and view of the skyline illuminated behind the stage are the real draw. 701 South Broadway (314-621-7880, bealeonbroadway.com)
Stuff to do Between Meals
City Museum "Imagination runs wild" at the City Museum, where an eclectic mix of everything from architecture to the world's largest pencil is housed in an old shoelace factory turned world-class fun house. The cafe, Samwhiches, serves excellent brick-oven, St. Louis–style pizza too. 701 North 15th St (314-231-2489, citymuseum.org) Campbell House Museum Built in 1880, fur trader Robert Campbell's home is one of the finest examples of high-Victorian opulence in all of America—and proof that history in St. Louis extends beyond big time brewing and Golden Glove–winning shortstops. 1508 Locust St (314-421-0325, campbellhousemuseum.org)
Chicago, Illinois

Like so many of America’s major cities that constantly get compared to one another, Chicago is silly with stuff to fill both your days and nights. The challenge isn’t uncovering places for you and the guys to hit up, but rather narrowing down which ones are fully worthy of your precious time. We’re thinking dogs and deep dish pizza by day, a couple dinner reservations for the evening, a healthy handful of brewpubs, a little bit of jazz, and some Intelligensia coffee for good measure. Structuring you ultimate Chi-town adventure should be approached by neighborhood, tackling restaurants, dives, blues joints, and cocktail spots based on their locale.
Don’t Miss
Publican Chef Paul Kahan focuses on beer-centric farmhouse fare at this beloved gastropub. The menu is divided into sections of fish, meat, and vegetables, tracking plates from lightest to heaviest. Pork is the driving protein, as you might gather form large portraits of swine adorning the walls. 837 W Fulton Market (312-733-9555, thepublicanrestaurant.com) Girl & The Goat From Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard, this West Loop restaurant showcases house-blended wines, ham frites, wood-oven roasted pig's face, and bread made with smoked duck fat butter and blackberries. Reservations are definitely recommended. 809 West Randolph Street (312- 492-6262, girlandthegoat.com) Hot Dougs People from Chi-Town are constantly touting their dogs as the best in the country, and this is the place to put that claim to the test. The names are kitschy, but the franks are dead serious. The Chicago-style dog is a requirement, out of respect. 3324 North California (773-279-9550, hotdougs.com) Tango Sur Meatheads can get their fill at this Argentinian steakhouse located in Lakeview. Cuts are cooked to order and topped with chimichurri along with fried empanadas, matambre (rolled veal cooked with vegetables), and milanesa a caballo (fried, breaded beef topped with two eggs). 3763 North Southport Avenue (773-477-5466, folklorechicago.com) The Art of Pizza Choose the size of your pie, crust categories (thin, pan, stuffed), and an array of toppings at this spot that's loved locally but not quite as well-known as some of the more touristy classics. 3033 North Ashland Ave (773-327-5600, artofpizzainc.com)
Worth Mentioning
Kuma’s Corner, for metal and big ass burgers; Lula Cafe, for brunch and a good looking staff and clientele; Gino’s East and Lou Malnati’s for deep dish; Smoque for barbecue.
Drink Here
Hop Leaf This neighborhood tavern offers a vast selection of craft brews on draft and by the bottle. Post up at the wood and brass bar or grab a table and a bite. 5148 North Clark Street (773-334-9851, hopleaf.com) Twisted Spoke Lovingly referred to as “The Spoke,” this biker-friendly bar has a rooftop patio and more than 190 suds to choose from. Take note of the Hell’s Angel mascot (a vintage motorcycle-riding skeleton at the bar's helm) and the signs reading "Chicks" and "Dicks" on the bathroom doors. 501 North Ogden Avenue (312-666-1500, twistedspoke.com) Map Room A travel-themed tavern, this space maps its course with beers from across the country and the world. 1949 N. Hoyne (773-252-7636, maproom.com) Curio Venture below Brendan Sodikoff’s Gilt Bar (formerly of Thomas Keller and Alain Ducasse) to find this cash-only cocktail lounge doling out 20 signature cocktails. 230 W. Kinzie St (312-464-9544, giltbarchicago.com) Whistler This music venue, bar, and art gallery mash-up showcases local talent in the form of indie bands, DJs, and window installations. There’s a 50-seat patio out back, church pews for lounging within, and seasonal house-infused spirits. 2421 N. Milwaukee (773-227-3530, whistlerchicago.com) Barrelhouse Flat Kind of like being in the sickest Seventh Grade basement party of your life with the addition of pool and cocktails, the place has got red leather chairs, patterned wood floors, punch bowls, and floor lamps. The 60-plus cocktails created by Stephen Cole (Violet Hour) are easily swigged at this Lincoln Park den. 2624 N Lincoln Ave (773-857-0421, barrelhouseflat.com)
Stuff to do Between Meals
Whirlyball A combination of hockey, lacrosse, and basketball—all while driving bumper cars. 1880 West Fullerton Avenue (800-894-4759, whirlyball.com)
Bachelor parties are a rare opportunity to skip town for some quality hang time with just the dudes. They are also a chance to stuff yourself to the gills with the kinds of food you fantasize about at your desk, or when your lady asks to split a salad instead of the pork belly you really wanted. Whether it's actually a proper, blow-out "bachelor vacation" or just a simple weekend with a few old friends, half the excitement is figuring out where you'll be eating, drinking, and acting like overgrown children. And since bros are just as likely to be obsessed with James Beard Award–winning chefs as breastaurants, don't be afraid to add a little refinement to the accepted playbook of steakhouses and strip clubs. Instead of all the tired getaway destinations chalk full of gross bars and all-inclusive buffet trash, we suggest ten cities where you can unleash the elevated man-child within: We're talking regional barbecue meccas, craft-beer hubs, and places where you can follow up rounds of pre-Prohibition cocktails with a trip to a vegan strip club. It’s all here, without that bush-league trip to Atlantic City that you’re brother-in-law wanted to take. Without further ado, we present the ultimate guide to bachelor tripping with your food-hound buddies.