From outrageous food hacks to surprisingly elegant twists on classics, TikTok has reshaped how food trends emerge and spread. What begins as a 15-second clip can quickly become a global phenomenon, spawning restaurant menu items, chef collaborations, and even grocery shortages. But are all viral dishes created equal? Not quite.
Here’s a curated look at the viral TikTok dishes actually worth trying—along with where to find real, high-quality versions beyond the algorithm.
- Carbonara Ramen
This creamy, salty, umami-packed noodle dish took off for its perfect balance of comfort food and late-night hack appeal. Many creators whip it up using instant noodles, egg yolk, cheese, and bacon—but restaurants have elevated the trend.
Where to try it:
- Boru Boru Ramen in Atlanta offers a carbonara-style tonkotsu ramen with smoked pork belly.
- Mr. Taka Ramen in NYC has seasonal carbonara ramen fusions that blend tradition and trend.
External reference: Eater Atlanta – Best Ramen Spots
- Butter Boards
A response to the overdone charcuterie trend, butter boards feature whipped or flavored butter spread across a wooden board and topped with herbs, chili oil, edible flowers, or honey. Though some versions lean gimmicky, others offer refined, shareable appetizers.
Where to try it:
- Olive & June in Austin creates butter boards with local herbs and sourdough.
- Fox in the Snow Café in Columbus, Ohio serves compound butter and house-made bread in a presentation inspired by the trend.
- Espresso Martinis
Once a throwback cocktail, espresso martinis surged back into the spotlight thanks to TikTok bartenders. The best versions use fresh espresso and high-quality vodka, often with creative additions like coconut foam or chili liqueur.
Where to try it:
- Dante NYC, a James Beard award-winning bar, serves one of the city’s most praised espresso martinis.
- ABV in San Francisco offers a spicy version with Ancho Reyes and cold brew.
External reference: Eater NYC – Best Espresso Martinis
- Cloud Bread
This pastel-hued, meringue-like bread captured TikTok with its ASMR appeal and fluffy texture. It’s not very flavorful on its own but fun as a novelty. Real bakers have since turned it into a more delicious product with added flavorings and textures.
Where to try it:
- Cafe Bora in Los Angeles often features seasonal cloud bread variations.
- Flour Shop in NYC is known for playful, colorful baked goods inspired by online trends.
External reference: TikTok #CloudBread
- Baked Feta Pasta
This trend broke grocery shelves, spiking feta sales worldwide. Though easy to make at home, chefs have adapted it with quality ingredients and elegant plating.
Where to try it:
- The Loyalist in Chicago offers a gourmet baked feta starter with heirloom tomatoes.
- Mezzet Mediterranean Cuisine in L.A. features a baked feta dip inspired by the trend.
External reference: Eater LA – Mediterranean Spots
- Birria Everything
From tacos to ramen, the birria trend has exploded far beyond its Mexican roots. TikTokers made it viral, but authentic spots still do it best.
Where to try it:
- Birrieria Zaragoza in Chicago offers traditional Jalisco-style birria.
- Teddy’s Red Tacos in Los Angeles is a viral staple known for dipping consomé.
- Corn Ribs
TikTok’s answer to plant-based BBQ, corn ribs are quartered corn on the cob, seasoned, and roasted until the edges curl and crisp. A smoky, fun side dish—if made right.
Where to try it:
- Shouk (DC and Philly) serves corn ribs with za’atar and tahini sauce.
- Superiority Burger in NYC offers a limited seasonal take on this crunchy trend.
External reference: Washington Post – Plant-Based BBQ
Not Worth the Hype?
While trends like rainbow grilled cheese or blue ramen are visually compelling, they often sacrifice flavor for aesthetic. The best TikTok dishes are those rooted in culinary traditions that simply got a digital boost.
Final Thoughts
When chasing viral food trends, always seek out spots that take the time to do it right. Trendy doesn’t have to mean gimmicky—especially when chefs and cafes adapt these internet-born dishes with quality and craft.
