Whether you crave a crisp-edged potato pancake or fork-tender slices of slow-smoked beef, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives has criss-crossed America to spotlight some truly memorable takes on latkes and brisket. Plot out a comfort-food road trip or take notes for your next craving, with these can’t-miss stops Guy Fieri has already ushered into Flavortown.

1. Shapiro’s Delicatessen — Indianapolis, IN

Since 1905, Shapiro’s Delicatessen has been a Hoosier institution that combines Midwestern hospitality with classic Jewish deli tradition. House-baked rye perfumes the air, but the skillet-fried latkes and long-braised brisket earned the spotlight on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Families crowd the cafeteria-style line for hearty portions and a vibe that feels like Sunday dinner every day of the week. The menu sticks close to old-world roots, which makes this a perfect first stop for anyone chasing the latke-and-brisket dream across the country.

2. The Bagel Deli & Restaurant — Denver, CO

Family-owned since 1967, The Bagel Deli & Restaurant pairs Rocky-Mountain friendliness with a distinctly East-Coast deli menu. When Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives rolled in, Guy found towering corned-beef sandwiches, matzo-ball soup, and latkes that hit the sweet spot between fluffy interior and shatter-crisp crust. Denver locals swear by the all-day breakfast vibe, but travelers happily detour off I-25 just for the brisket platter that recalls grandma’s Sunday roast—rich, aromatic, and unapologetically comforting.

3. Kenny & Ziggy’s — Houston, TX

Everything’s bigger in Texas, including this bustling homage to New York City delicatessens. Third-generation deli man Ziggy Gruber charms guests with humorous banter while the kitchen turns out mountains of slow-cooked brisket and platters of latkes crisped in schmaltz. On Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, the crew marveled at how the spot blends Houston’s appetite with classic deli know-how. It’s a must for roadtrippers who want their brisket with a side of old-school flair rather than barbecue sauce.

4. Manny’s Deli — Chicago, IL

Since 1942, Manny’s Deli has fueled everyone from politicians to construction crews with no-nonsense counter service and portions that border on heroic. Its appearance on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives highlighted the cafeteria line where brisket is sliced to order and latkes are fried fresh in cast-iron skillets. The sprawling dining room, tiled in classic Chicago style, invites patrons to linger over conversation, dill pickles, and perhaps an extra latke “for the road.” It’s the quintessential big-city deli experience dressed in Midwestern warmth.

5. Pecan Lodge — Dallas, TX

What began as a farmers-market stand now draws lines that wrap around the block in Deep Ellum. Pecan Lodge made its TV debut, turning out mesquite-kissed brisket that stays juicy from bark to center—so memorable Guy dubbed it essential Flavortown fare. While latkes aren’t on the menu, this stop earns its place on the list by showcasing brisket at its Texas best. If your ultimate Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives itinerary leans meaty, you’ll want Pecan Lodge circled in bold red ink.

6. Joe’s Kansas City BBQ — Kansas City, KS

Housed in a converted gas station, Joe’s Kansas City BBQ delivers equal parts charm and smoked-meat mastery. The Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives episode showcased how the pit crew coaxes deep mahogany color and just-set bark on every brisket that rolls off the smoker. The spot exemplifies Joe’s Kansas City BBQ’s balanced approach—rich smoke, subtle spice rub, and just enough sauce to accent the meat. Please plan to arrive early; once the line snakes past the pumps outside, you’ll understand why it’s hallowed ground for brisket pilgrims.

7. Louie Mueller Barbecue — Taylor, TX

Since 1949, Louie Mueller Barbecue’s smoke-blackened walls have told the story of seven decades of oak-fired tradition. Viewers watched on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives as pitmasters tended mammoth offset smokers and carved brisket so tender it drooped over the knife. Salt-and-pepper simplicity defines the style here, making each bite a study in beef, smoke, and time. For anyone mapping out iconic brisket stops, this Taylor landmark is non-negotiable.

8. Caplansky’s Deli (Food Truck) — Toronto, ON

While not in the U.S., Caplansky’s Deli roving truck earned praise on the show for taking Jewish comfort food to Canadian streets. Its hand-cut smoked meat resembles brisket’s Montreal cousin, and the latkes fly off the griddle faster than you can say “eh.” If your Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives guests ever cross the border, track the truck for a taste of familiar flavors with a northern twist—proof that the love of latkes and brisket knows no boundaries.