For some, a meal is just a means for curbing the appetite, but for others, it's a way to satisfy the soul. If you believe in cooking as an art form, then you'll want to read Gayot's lists of best restaurants. Every year, we provide you with our selections of the restaurants that take their cuisine above and beyond the extraordinary. Gayot finds these places all over the country, whether it's in New York City, New Orleans, or somewhere in between. So read on to find out where and how you can find the finest meals in your city, in the rest of the U.S. and around the world.

A truly magnificent dining experience isn't just about the food. It's about the quality of each ingredient, the creativity of each recipe, and how the menu works as a whole. It's also about the ambience of the restaurant and the level of service you receive. If you want a meal that lives up to the highest of standards, then pick a restaurant from our Top 40 list. Some of these eating establishments have been around for years, and some are new, but none of them will disappoint. Of course, as much as we all love a meal at our favorite restaurant, it is important to experience something new once in a while. That's why Gayot also provides you with a Top 10 New Restaurants list. They may surprise you, but they will also please your palate. And while we're discussing the best restaurants in the U.S., new or otherwise, we must include a truly American establishment: the steakhouse. You can find those Top 10 steakhouses here, too.

Some people believe that getting a delicious meal requires a trip to an expensive restaurant. But true foodies know that sometimes the tastiest meal is at the small neighborhood restaurant tucked away on a quiet street. Gayot has found those places that offer up a great meal for an even better price, and they are all right here in our Top 40 Cheap Eats list. Other people want more for their meal than just good food, and believe that design plays a part in the overall ambience. Find out which restaurant has the Best Restaurant Design and allows you to eat in style.

None of our "Best of" lists would exist if it weren't for the people who make the food and create the ambience. For a restaurant to succeed, it needs to have the most talented chefs and pastry chefs; for a restaurant to stay in business, it needs to have the best business minds. That's why it's a good idea to take a look at the people behind the curtain to find even more satisfying meals. Today's Top Rising Chefs are certainly on their way to become the owners of tomorrow's Top 40 Restaurants. We profile the Top 5 Rising Chefs, let you know what they're doing now, and where you can taste what they are cooking. A top meal is not complete without a delicious dessert, and creating them is a talent in its own right. This list of Top 5 Pastry Chefs helps you discover the finest places to finish off your meal. And last, but certainly not least, we must acknowledge those who know how to run a restaurant as a successful business. Find out who is the Best Restaurateur in the U.S.

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