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I’ve traveled the world covering some of the top food scenes from Modena to New York City, and everywhere in between. But, the lesser known towns never cease to amaze me. If last year’s list of James Beard Foundation Award Winners (including the Best Chef of the South awarded to Natalia Vallejo of Cocina al Fondo in San Juan, Puerto Rico) are any indication, I’m not alone. According to Food Management Tourism, 80% of travelers pick their travel based upon the destination’s culinary offerings. Look beyond spring break with the family and book vacation from your vacation – sans the kids. Here are a couple of destinations that will surprise and delight this spring. 

Boise, Idaho

Boise presents one of the nation’s most underrated music festivals – Treefort Music Festival happening March 20th through 24th. The city of trees will host top acts such as Dawes and Neko Case performing in downtown venues, along with hundreds of other bands performing in a myriad of venues that you never knew you’d crave. But, it’s not just about music. The festival also offers other “forts” such as a wine fort and food fort where extremely rare vintages are poured and dishes from James Beard awarded chefs can be savored. The city is home to the nation’s largest Basque population, too. So, don’t miss out on  experiencing delicacies from the Basque region during your visit. Finally, less than an hour’s drive lies one of the nation’s premier AVAs – Snake River Valley. If you go, stay at Boise’s favorite four-diamond boutique hotel in the center of all the festivities – Inn at 500 Capitol.  

Pensacola, Florida

Home to the famous Bushwacker cocktail, world famous beaches, and the Blue Angels, direct flights are offered daily from Nashville to Pensacola. But what about downtown Pensacola? Chef Georg and Luba Lazi of George Bistro + Bar bring the pearls of the sea and the freshest seafood, as well as the horns of the land with savory burgers and sandwiches at Pearl and Horn in The Garden At Palafox + Main for lunch. And, for dinner Jackson’s Steakhouse has earned the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator nine times – a staple in Pensacola’s fine-dining scene. Or, opt for award-winning Restaurant Iron which focuses on contemporary Southern cuisine. For the perfect nite cap, head to Old Hickory Whiskey Bar where over 650 whiskies and craft cocktails await. If you go, two downtown luxury boutique hotels beckon your attention – Lily Hall and Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel.