Best Themed Restaurants in the US is Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, San Francisco, California
|

Top 20 Best Themed Restaurants in the US

Hi there and welcome to Nails Genius. Today’s article is going to be about 20best themed restaurants in the US you totally have to visit. You should always select a restaurant that serves excellent food, but occasionally you want to go somewhere exciting, original, and interesting. That’s where themed restaurants come in.

Soon, the bohemian atmosphere of Paris cafes passed into the US, first in New York City. Thus, 1895 saw the opening of Le Chat Noir, a restaurant adorned with a frieze of black cats. Aside from that, the place appeared to be just a fairly modest French bistro of the era, serving dishes such as lobster or trout. Several other New York City cafes followed suit, and counterparts in San Francisco did the same thing. France may have started the trend, but now everyone wants a piece of the wacky dining pie.

So why do we find themed restaurants appealing? These crazy experiences are spreading faster than a sneeze in a kindergarten classroom. It’s amazing how restaurants with themes like toilets, hospitals, and prisons have managed to attract customers without any actual food appeal. Yes, there is a stigma attached to themed restaurants, and you know what, this makes sense.


Best Themed Restaurants in the US

Here are 20 unique restaurants you should try, including one in Colorado that was just saved from bankruptcy by some well-known investors. Are you ready to enjoy awesome food in unforgettable surroundings? If you are, let’s go!


20. The Purple Cow, Little Rock, Arkansas

  • Theme: [Describe the theme]
  • Food Menu: [Brief description of food]
  • Why Popular: [Reason for popularity]
  • Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
  • Customer Rating: [General rating]
The Purple Cow, Little Rock, Arkansas
The Purple Cow, Little Rock, Arkansas

Looking for a marvelous dining experience? You’ve come to the right place. Back in 1989, businessman Ed Moore and chef Paul Bash decided to join forces and open the Purple Cow restaurant. Thus, a legend was born. Inspired by diners of the 1950s, the place was a total smash.

This absolutely fantastic establishment serves American food for all tastes, along with a soda fountain that will take you back to early childhood. If you really want to make the most of your time here, you have to get their famous signature vanilla hand-dipped purple milkshake.


19. Mac-n-Out Macaroni and Cheese, Milford, Connecticut

  • Theme: Macaroni and Cheese
  • Food Menu: Extensive variety of macaroni and cheese dishes.
  • Why Popular: Unique concept, wide range of mac and cheese options.
  • Location: Milford, Connecticut
  • Customer Rating: Generally positive reviews for the food quality and variety.
Mac-n-Out Macaroni and Cheese, Milford, Connecticut

Are you a rebel who likes to live on the edge, or are you a traditionalist who sticks to mom’s classic recipe? Be that as it may, if you’re a mac and cheese lover, this Connecticut establishment will make you feel like you’ve died and gone to cheesy heaven.

It all started with four sisters cooking their own version of the dish and tossing around the notion of opening a restaurant. Overnight, the younger sister, Kate, founded the first Mac-n-Out in 2013. You can choose from over 25 types of mac and cheese. Imagine that! Also, make sure to give their seasonal menu a look; it is a treasure trove of deliciousness waiting to be devoured.


18. Pioneer Saloon, Goodsprings, Nevada

  • Theme: Macaroni and Cheese
  • Food Menu: Extensive variety of macaroni and cheese dishes.
  • Why Popular: Unique concept, wide range of mac and cheese options.
  • Location: Milford, Connecticut
  • Customer Rating: Generally positive reviews for the food quality and variety.
Pioneer Saloon, Goodsprings, Nevada

The wars at Pioneer Saloon have seen more drama than a soap opera. Thus, if you haven’t seen this place on TV, in your favorite video game, or even in a movie, then you must have lived under a rock since 1913. I’m not saying that the drinks and food aren’t amazing, but have you tried the Bloody Mary?

It is so notorious that it will make Al Capone look like a choir boy. And if that’s not enough to get you excited, the amount of history in this venue and the surrounding Goodsprings ghost town will make your head spin faster than a haunted merry-go-round.


17. Magic Time Machine, San Antonio, Texas

  • Theme: Old West
  • Food Menu: Classic American fare
  • Why Popular: Historic saloon with a Wild West atmosphere, frequented by celebrities.
  • Location: Goodsprings, Nevada
  • Customer Rating: High ratings for the atmosphere and historical significance.
Magic Time Machine, San Antonio, Texas

Magic Time Machine bills itself as more of an experience than just a restaurant, and for good reason. The establishment takes great satisfaction in its ability to immerse its customers in a different era with a diverse cast of characters.

Dine in a retro bar with natural light, be transported to the world of Alice in Wonderland, swing by Spider-Man’s lair, or just chill with Snow White. But if there’s one moment that employees from Magic Time Machine look forward to, It is whenever a child’s face brightens at a glimpse of a character who helps them forget about the real world. It is this ageless desire to rediscover our inner child that keeps this outstanding restaurant going.


16. Ka Mana Luau, Waimanalo, Hawaii

  • Theme: Time Travel
  • Food Menu: [Brief description of food]
  • Why Popular: Unique decor and a fun theme for families.
  • Location: San Antonio, Texas
  • Customer Rating: [General rating]
image 10
Ka Mana Luau, Waimanalo, Hawaii

Are you ready to embark on a roller coaster, but with more hula dancing and fire twirling? Then Ka Mana, the only luau on the windward side of Oahu, is going to blow your mind with its breathtaking panorama.

You’ll learn how to make leis, shake your hips with hula lessons, become a trendsetter with a coconut headband, and even strum a ukulele like a pro. The restaurant’s menu is so local that the vegetables practically walk themselves to the kitchen.

From fresh-cut fruit to sweet potatoes, everything is full of flavor. Trust me, you’ll be talking about this experience for years to come, or at least until your next vacation. Checkout about the Most Expensive Restaurant in the World.


15. The Pandorica, Beacon, New York

  • Theme: Hawaiian Luau
  • Food Menu: Traditional Hawaiian dishes, luau feasts.
  • Why Popular: Authentic Hawaiian experience with live music and entertainment.
  • Location: Waimanalo, Hawaii
  • Customer Rating: High ratings for the authentic Hawaiian experience.
The Pandorica, Beacon, New York
The Pandorica, Beacon, New York

Looking for a TARDIS-tally delicious meal? Look no further than the Pandorica, one of the best Doctor Who-themed restaurants in the United States. Whether you’re a die-hard Whovian or just a curious companion, the decor is sure to delight your senses with subtle nods to the show.

Obviously, there are several Doctor Who-inspired options on the menu, including the 11th Doctor’s personal favorite, fish fingers, and custard. Don’t pass on the many distinctly British staples, such as bangers and mash or cottage pie, called TARDIS on the menu. Or you can just relax and enjoy a pot of tea.


14. La Cava, New York City, New York

  • Theme: Doctor Who
  • Food Menu: [Brief description of food]
  • Why Popular: Themed after the TARDIS from the Doctor Who series.
  • Location: Beacon, New York
  • Customer Rating: [General rating]
La Cava, New York City, New York
La Cava, New York City, New York

La Cava is like a secret hideout. You enter through a door with a simple ancient painting and suddenly find yourself in a cave with glowing purple rocks. It’s like the Flintstones meeting the Jetsons. But alas, the Paleolithic party stops here.

La Cava is the perfect spot for those who love to eat Mexican food and drink margaritas. When the sun goes down, the place transforms into a wild fiesta with music. If you’re not into it, make sure to stop by before the clock strikes 8:00 PM to do Taco Tuesday a little differently.


13. Zombie Burger, Des Moines, Iowa

  • Theme: [Describe the theme – e.g., Spanish, Wine Cellar]
  • Food Menu: [Brief description of food]
  • Why Popular: [Reason for popularity]
  • Location: New York City, New York
  • Customer Rating: [General rating]
Zombie Burger, Des Moines, Iowa
Zombie Burger, Des Moines, Iowa

When Zombie Burger first opened its doors, it caused a feeding frenzy in Iowa. The cherry on top: say hello to The Walking Dead. The setting here is completely post-apocalyptic.

You won’t find any dead cows in their kitchen, but every burger is so delicious it could bring them back to life. Plus, each dish has an intriguing zombie name that will have you laughing tirelessly, making you forget you’re eating brains—I mean beef. Not a meat lover?

You won’t be left out of the action. You can customize each burger with your choice of nut patty varieties or a grilled portabella mushroom. There’s also a vegan burger on the menu called Negan, for obvious reasons. I hope you have a stomach of steel and a taste for adventure.


12. The Airplane Restaurant, Colorado Springs, Colorado

  • Theme: Horror/Zombies
  • Food Menu: Unique and often over-the-top burgers with spooky names.
  • Why Popular: Novelty factor, unique and creative menu items.
  • Location: Des Moines, Iowa
  • Customer Rating: Mixed reviews, with some praising the creativity and others finding it gimmicky.

For those who claim that eating well on an airplane is next to impossible, we present The Airplane Restaurant in Colorado Springs to counter your assertions. If you’re lucky enough, you may get to dine inside the establishment’s centerpiece: a real Boeing KC-97 tanker that primarily refueled other aircraft. If you are more interesting to learn about aircraft and biggest Airports in the U.S.

The Airplane Restaurant, Colorado Springs, Colorado
The Airplane Restaurant, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Furthermore, the place boasts myriad aviation relics and plane replicas throughout the connected terminal. Enjoy steak, sandwiches, and seafood while alleviating your thirst with in-flight beverages or specialty cocktails.


11. Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant, Kansas City, Kansas

  • Theme: Aviation
  • Food Menu: American cuisine
  • Why Popular: Dining inside an actual airplane fuselage.
  • Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
  • Customer Rating: High ratings for the novelty and unique dining experience.

If you’ve got a train-obsessed toddler, you might as well accept that Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant is your new dining destination. Resistance is futile.

Fritz's Railroad Restaurant, Kansas City, Kansas
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant, Kansas City, Kansas

Therefore, all aboard to have your taste buds transported to a world of pure ecstasy with a menu that boasts classics like burgers, BLTs, and pork tenderloin sandwiches. Not only can you snag some cool engineer hats for the kids, but your food will arrive via a “Skat Cat,” a tiny train that moves along the ceiling.


10. The Hobbit Cafe, Houston, Texas

  • Theme: Railroad
  • Food Menu: American cuisine, possibly with a focus on comfort food.
  • Why Popular: Dining experience in a vintage train car.
  • Location: Kansas City, Kansas
  • Customer Rating: Generally positive reviews for the novelty and atmosphere.
image 16
The Hobbit Cafe, Houston, Texas

This cozy joint may not be as grand as other themed restaurants, but it’s a hobbit-forming experience for any “Lord of the Rings” enthusiast. From Gollum lurking in the corner of the front room to a myriad of posters from the movie, this place is a nerd’s paradise.

If you need a break from the scorching Texas heat, the leafy patio is a perfect spot to chill with a cold local brew. Try the Frodo sandwich made with smoked turkey, roasted bell peppers, tomatoes, and cheese. If you’re hungry for something creative, take on the “Balrog Burger” with not one but two juicy patties.


9. Safe House, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

  • Theme: Lord of the Rings
  • Food Menu: Fantasy-themed food and drinks.
  • Why Popular: Unique decor, themed cocktails, and a popular spot for fans of the Lord of the Rings.
  • Location: Houston, Texas
  • Customer Rating: Positive reviews from fans of the franchise.
Safe House, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Safe House, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The clandestine gimmick is handled casually at the Safe House. First, to find this hidden establishment, you must locate the plaque “International Exports Limited” in a seedy Milwaukee alley.

Second, a password is required to enter, and if you don’t know it, prepare to do a foolish dance as you’re escorted through a bookcase-turned-door. The decor is straight out of a James Bond movie, including two-way mirrors and spy gear galore. The menu is family-friendly, offering items like the Inside Agent Burger, License to Kill Macaroni, or the Goldfinger (chicken tenders).


8. Aquarium Restaurant, Nashville, Tennessee

  • Theme: Spy/Secret Agent
  • Food Menu: American cuisine, possibly with a focus on burgers and sandwiches.
  • Why Popular: Themed decor, secret entrance, and interactive elements.
  • Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Customer Rating: Generally positive reviews for the unique experience and atmosphere.
8. Aquarium Restaurant, Nashville, Tennessee
8. Aquarium Restaurant, Nashville, Tennessee

This restaurant’s name is so obvious that even a goldfish could figure it out, but trust me, you’ll be head over heels for its groovy atmosphere. There is something incredibly magical about dining amidst mind-blowing fish tanks filled with fascinating creatures.

image 1 1

The aquarium is home to over 100 tropical species from the Caribbean, South Pacific, and Indian oceans. If you’re lucky, you might catch a scuba diver fish feed or a spellbinding performance by some mermaids who are obviously not afraid of having their hair wet.


7. Big Nose Kate’s Saloon, Tombstone, Arizona

  • Theme: Underwater
  • Food Menu: Seafood, American cuisine
  • Why Popular: Unique dining experience with an aquarium surrounding the dining area.
  • Location: Nashville, Tennessee
  • Customer Rating: Positive reviews for the ambiance and novelty.
Big Nose Kate's Saloon, Tombstone, Arizona

If you consider yourself a bona fide cowboy, you’d better saddle up and mosey on down to Tombstone, Arizona. When you get there, don’t forget to stop by Big Nose Kate’s for some food and a cold one to quench your thirst after all that exploring.

You’ve arrived in the wild, wild west, baby. Get ready to strike a pose with a sassy saloon lady at this allegedly haunted watering hole. You are encouraged to don cowboy hats—the ghosts might mistake you for a city slicker without one.

If that’s not your style, kick back and enjoy the show with some good old-fashioned live entertainment. Live bands perform weekly, and the extensive themed menu features staples like burgers, brisket, and homemade chili.


6. Pirate’s Landing, Elkin, North Carolina

  • Theme: Old West
  • Food Menu: Classic American fare, possibly with a Southwestern twist.
  • Why Popular: Historic saloon in a classic Western town, known for its atmosphere and live music.
  • Location: Tombstone, Arizona
  • Customer Rating: Generally positive reviews for the atmosphere and historical significance.
Pirate's Landing, Elkin, North Carolina
Pirate’s Landing, Elkin, North Carolina

Designed to seem like the deck of a gigantic pirate ship, replete with skull and crossbones flags, masts, weathered planks, and rope-lined pathways, Pirate’s Landing is impossible to miss. As you enter, keep an eye out for the koi pond.

Pirate's Landing, Elkin, North Carolina

Inside, there’s even more to see, such as pirate murals, cannons, weapons, and treasure chests. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a tableside magic show. Don’t worry, your food won’t disappear! Visitors with the biggest appetites can indulge in the bounty’s fried seafood, which includes crab cakes, clam strips, oysters, baby flounders, popcorn shrimp, and scallops.

5. Casa Bonita, Lakewood, Colorado

  • Theme: Mexican
  • Food Menu: Mexican cuisine, known for their cliff divers and Black Knight.
  • Why Popular: Iconic, family-friendly restaurant with entertainment and a unique atmosphere.
  • Location: Lakewood, Colorado
  • Customer Rating: Mixed reviews, with some praising the nostalgia and others criticizing the food quality.
Casa Bonita, Lakewood, Colorado
Casa Bonita, Lakewood, Colorado

Casa Bonita is not just a place to stuff your face with tacos and burritos—it’s a full-blown entertainment extravaganza that’s been wowing diners since the disco era. The business went from making dough to being in debt after some legal wrangling.

Casa Bonita, Lakewood, Colorado
Casa Bonita, Lakewood, Colorado

Fortunately, “South Park” creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker bought the place for $3.1 million. For fans of Casa Bonita’s 30 attractions—which include a cave, an arcade, a 30-foot waterfall, regular gunfights, and appearances by pirates—this is welcome news. Parker and Stone have promised diners an upgrade to the restaurant’s food, but the atmosphere will always be the main draw.


4. Rattlesnake Saloon, Tuscumbia, Alabama

  • Theme: [Restaurant Theme]
  • Food Menu: [Brief description of food]
  • Why Popular: [Reason for popularity]
  • Location: [City, State]
  • Customer Rating: [General rating – e.g., “Highly rated,” “Mixed reviews”]
 Rattlesnake Saloon, Tuscumbia, Alabama
Rattlesnake Saloon, Tuscumbia, Alabama


No need to panic about tethering your trusty steed—the Rattlesnake Saloon has got you covered with its top-of-the-line horse hitching post. This joint is nestled in a big old rock shelter in the Appalachian foothills of Northwest Alabama.

 Rattlesnake Saloon, Tuscumbia, Alabama
Rattlesnake Saloon, Tuscumbia, Alabama

It has all the western charm you could possibly desire, and the views will make your heart skip a beat. Feeling adventurous? Try your luck with a Giga, a colossal 2 lb beef burger that comes with a side of fries. If you can conquer this beast in under 45 minutes, it’s on the house. It’s time to dust off your cowboy boots, sweetheart.


3. Heart Attack Grill, Las Vegas, Nevada

  • Theme: Hospital/Medical
  • Food Menu: Extreme comfort food, known for their “unhealthy” options and large portions.
  • Why Popular: Novelty factor, unique dining experience, and social media sensation.
  • Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
  • Customer Rating: Mixed reviews, with some praising the novelty and others criticizing the unhealthy food options.

Oh dear, I have a treat for you. If you’re looking for drama, come on down to Vegas and witness the madness unfold at the Heart Attack Grill. First, you’ll have to rock a fashionable hospital gown before taking pleasure in the restaurant’s delicious foods.

Heart Attack Grill, Las Vegas, Nevada
Heart Attack Grill, Las Vegas, Nevada

With a menu that celebrates overindulgence and a theme centered around obesity, you’ll get the impression you’ve just committed a deliciously sinful act. Who needs a doctor when you can have a waitress dressed as a sexy nurse prescribe a diet of heart attack-inducing meals?

Heart Attack Grill, Las Vegas, Nevada

If you’re feeling wild, go for the Crazy 8 Burger. You know what they say, a moment on the lips, a lifetime on the hips. Who cares when you can have some Flatliner Fries cooked in lard and wash them down with a Butterfat Milkshake? Step right up and weigh yourself. If the scale reaches over 350 pounds, congratulations—you eat for free!


2. The Proud Bird, Los Angeles, California

  • Theme: Aviation
  • Food Menu: American cuisine with a focus on steaks and seafood.
  • Why Popular: Historic landmark, stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline, and a celebrity hotspot.
  • Location: Los Angeles, California
  • Customer Rating: High ratings for ambiance, food, and service.
 The Proud Bird, Los Angeles, California
The Proud Bird, Los Angeles, California

Prepare to have your mind blown, folks. This place in Los Angeles is like nothing you’ve seen before. Just spread your wings and let the good times fly. The Proud Bird is the perfect spot for aviation enthusiasts who want to chow down on some tasty food while watching planes land at LAX.

The Proud Bird, Los Angeles, California
The Proud Bird, Los Angeles, California

If you get bored of the food, just take a stroll through the mini aviation museum, because nothing says appetizing like vintage airplanes. Explore the history of flight while indulging in some delicious Italian, American, or Asian cuisine. What’s not to love—except for taxes, Mondays, and accidentally biting your tongue while eating?


1. Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, San Francisco, California

  • Theme: Polynesian
  • Food Menu: Asian-inspired dishes, cocktails
  • Why Popular: Iconic tiki bar with a unique atmosphere, live music, and a “rainstorm” effect.
  • Location: San Francisco, California
  • Customer Rating: Generally high ratings for ambiance and entertainment.

Let’s just say that the Tonga Room isn’t exactly known for its understated elegance. Prepare to be transported to a tropical paradise that’s so tacky, it’s cool.

Theme: Aviation Food Menu: American cuisine with a focus on steaks and seafood. Why Popular: Historic landmark, stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline, and a celebrity hotspot. Location: Los Angeles, California Customer Rating: High ratings for ambiance, food, and service.
Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, San Francisco, California

Tiki madness has taken over the Fairmont San Francisco Hotel, complete with bamboo light fixtures, thatch art, and enough palm fronds to make you feel lost in the jungle. It’s kitschy, it’s cheesy, and it’s absolutely fabulous. Who needs a boring old stage when you can rock on a boat in the middle of a pool? The house band is making waves—literally.

This place has the best Mai Tai in town, and don’t even get me started on the Polynesian fusion food. It’s so delicious that you’ll want to share it with your family, friends, and even your enemies. Go to the Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar to experience a surprise storm while you eat—lightning, thunder, and storm sounds included. It’s like dinner and a show, with a chance of getting wet.

Themed Restaurants Map

Themed Restaurants in the US


FAQ’s

What is the most iconic American restaurant?

McDonald’s is often considered the most iconic American restaurant, known globally for its fast food and golden arches.

What are theme-based restaurants?

Theme-based restaurants are dining establishments designed around a particular concept or theme, such as a specific time period, popular culture, or unique experience. They offer a distinctive atmosphere and menu that aligns with the chosen theme.

What is the name of the best restaurant in the USA?

The title of the best restaurant in the USA can be subjective and vary by ranking list, but Alinea in Chicago is frequently recognized for its innovative cuisine and exceptional dining experience.

What is the most popular type of restaurant in us? 

Fast food restaurants are the most popular type in the US, known for their quick service and convenience. Chains like McDonald’s, Subway, and Starbucks are prime examples.

Conclusion

A themed restaurant is a place that has a unified concept across its menu, decor, and name, and the theme is carried through from the exterior to the dining room, the serving utensils, and even the restrooms. Often featuring elaborate themes like medieval eras, jungles, and certain historical figures, these venues cater to people who want to do something different.

Many assume that the food at a themed restaurant is subpar because of the emphasis on maintaining the theme. This is not always the case. Having a mouthwatering meal is fantastic, but dining in an establishment that looks straight out of a movie is even better.

If you’re tired of eating in boring places and want to spice up your dining experience, choose at least one of these 20 themed restaurants in the US. Let’s pair our meals with a side of laughter and a generous serving of fun!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *