Central Standard, Dallas

The Central Time Zone spans 20 states nestled within America's heartland. Each of these states has its own culinary traditions and signature dishes, from Louisiana's gumbo to Minnesota's walleye. For the first time in maybe ever, these dishes share the same menu at Central Standard, a restaurant that aspires to capture an edible snapshot of America's middle third. Only here can you send your palate on a road trip to Texas (the barbecued bacon burger), Chicago (the italian beef sandwich), and Wisconsin (the footlong grilled cheese) without ever leaving the table. Pair any of the menu's dishes with a regional cocktail from the bar, then give yourself a pat on the back for remembering not to pronounce the "s" in "Illinois" when ordering.