Guy Fieri Reveals Top 5 Eateries in World Cup Cities! Must-Try Dining Picks!

With the 2026 World Cup stirring up appetites across 16 host cities, fans don’t need to be on the turf to indulge in extraordinary culinary experiences. Eleven of these host cities are recognized as 'Flavortown' food capitals of the U.S., offering far more than typical stadium fare. To guide hungry travelers, this article compiles five of Guy Fieri's favorite, distinctive bites from various corners of the country, showcasing the rich diversity of American food beyond just greasy burgers and fries.

For a taste of Italy, even though Italy isn't competing in the 2026 World Cup, New York City’s John's of 12th Street is a must-visit. This over-a-century-old East Village institution, shining with its neon red sign, offers an old-school, red-sauce comfort food experience. Since its opening in 1908, the restaurant has meticulously followed original family recipes, including the famous veal meatballs with Marsala wine. Fieri highlighted their homemade pappardelle with ragu, praising the fresh, thick-cut pasta that soaks up a rich, meaty Tuscan sauce, noting, “That meat just melts.”

A trip to Los Angeles wouldn't be complete without authentic Mexican street food, and Fieri's top pick is Tacos y Birria La Unica. Known as one of the Golden State’s best street taco and birria restaurants, this food truck specializes in birria – traditionally braised goat meat in a corn tortilla, served with consommé for dipping. Owner Yasmany Mendoza's recipe, inspired by his mother, uses a spice-packed birria paste with chiles California, peppercorns, garlic, onion, clove, and cinnamon, complemented by Monterey Jack cheese. Fieri confirmed its perfectly balanced flavor, making it a quick and satisfying post-game meal.

In Philadelphia, beyond classic cheesesteak spots, Mom Mom's Kitchen offers a creative, unexpected delight: Philly cheesesteak pierogis. Located in the Port Richmond neighborhood, this Eastern European restaurant infuses traditional pierogi dough with ribeye, serving it alongside caramelized onions, sour cream, and a signature black pepper ketchup. Chef Kaitlin Wines’ “mom mom” inspired this fusion, which Fieri admitted “is absolutely wrecking regular cheesesteaks for me right now.”

Kansas City, despite being the smallest U.S. host city, proudly holds the title of the “Barbecue Capital of the World.” Pigwich, situated in KC's City Market, showcases the city’s meatpacking heritage. Fieri, joined by Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, featured the monumental Big Pig sandwich. This carnivorous creation is piled high with a pulled pork patty, fried pork tenderloin, three cheeses, barbecue sauce, pickled jalapeños, nduja, and ranch. For those less inclined towards pork, the Fieri-approved short rib burger also promises a “flavor punch.”

Finally, no American food tour is complete without a burger, and Dallas—affectionately called “Triple D”—delivers them bigger and better. Maple and Motor stands out with its enormous half-pound patties made from brisket and chuck. True to Texas tradition, it’s common here to swap mayonnaise for mustard, adding a distinct regional twist to a beloved American classic.