Whether you love your bacon in a breakfast sandwich, nestled inside a burger, or as the surprise ingredient in a dessert or sweet treat, there's no denying that it has the power to transform a dish from good to great. From perfectly executed classics to tempting new creations, we've scoured the nation to find the irresistible bacon bites that bring something truly special to the table.

Click or scroll through our gallery to discover the very best bacon dishes in every state and DC. 

Our selections are based on genuine user reviews, awards and accolades, and the first-hand experience of our team. They're also regularly checked and updated.

There are eight Urban Cookhouse outlets, plus a food truck, scattered across Alabama – and each one champions local produce through its delicious range of sandwiches. The BALT sandwich (a modern take on a BLT) adds smashed avocado to the classic combination of lettuce, tomato, and (of course) mouth-wateringly crispy bacon. It may be simple, but it's perfect!

While classic milkshake flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry receive plenty of praise at this relaxed Anchorage spot, it's the Fat Elvis that's the real star of the show. Appearing on the menu from time to time, it's inspired by Elvis Presley's famous love of peanut butter sandwiches. Crafted with vanilla ice cream and rich peanut butter, it's finished with indulgent chocolate sauce and a whole strip of candied bacon.

Medjool dates are an Arizona specialty – and chef Alex Trujillo, the mastermind behind J.T. Prime Kitchen & Cocktails, knows exactly how to get the most out of them. His signature sweet, sugary morsels are wrapped in a tantalizing strip of salty bacon, and filled with sharp, tangy blue cheese. The result? A total flavor explosion. Sharing is most definitely caring when it comes to this dish.

As the name suggests, traditional Central European kolache pastries are the big draw at this beloved Fayetteville bakery – in particular, a mouth-watering bacon, egg, and cheese–stuffed variety known as the Eggniter. Like all the delicious treats the friendly, passionate staff whip up here, these brunchy bites are made fresh every morning, ready to be devoured by hordes of eager customers. Soft, golden, hot from the oven, and incredibly tasty, they're the perfect breakfast, all in one irresistible package.

No list of amazing American bacon joints would be complete without giving Slater’s 50/50 a mention. This place is famous for its signature burger patties, which are made by blending beef with bacon (hence the 50/50 in its name). Featuring every bacon-y element imaginable, the B’B’B’ Bacon burger is a standout – it comes loaded with bacon American cheese, thick-cut bacon, and 'bacon island' dressing.

Serving what it calls a 'bacon-forward brunch menu,' Bacon Social House is definitely one for lovers of all things porky. Among several bacon-filled brunch dishes is the restaurant's jaw-dropping signature bacon flight, which features six mouth-watering types of bacon – pecanwood, BBQ, candied, French toast, chile lime, and a special 'bacon of the month.' Customers say it's the ultimate bacon experience.

A heady mix of pulled pork and bacon makes Pig Rig BBQ's hickory-smoked mac 'n' cheese (pictured bottom left) something truly special. The perfect accompaniment to the restaurant's amazing selection of barbecued meats, customers say it's cheesy, salty, and incredibly addictive. No wonder the menu describes it as 'everybody's favorite!'

Loved by Newark locals, m2o offers a huge range of delicious burgers – but it's the bacon cheese fries that steal the spotlight. A tantalizing creation that's perfect either on its own or with a burger (if you're really hungry), the crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside fries come covered in a indulgently cheesy sauce and topped with a heap of crispy, salty bacon bites. The restaurant also has a few outposts in Philadelphia, and one in New Jersey.

Thick-cut bacon glazed with cinnamon brown sugar, all served on a stick – could a meaty snack be more perfect? You'll find glazed bacon lollis on both the lunch and dinner menu at Founding Farmers, which has three locations in Washington DC. To satisfy your cravings even further, there's an abundance of other tempting, bacon-centric options on the menu, including burgers and sandwiches.

Complete with a cornflake crust, Knob Creek crème anglaise, caramel, and a waffle crisp, this candied bacon maple ice cream dessert would make a gorgeously sweet ending to a visit to Ulele in Tampa. Diners say it hits the perfect balance between sweet and salty, with all the contrasting flavors working in harmony.

The much-loved burger joint Burger 21 is famous for dishing out deliciously juicy, meaty treats, stacked high with fillings. A customer favorite is the BBQ bacon burger: an Angus beef patty heaped with crispy, applewood-smoked bacon and onion strings, all packed inside a brioche bun. Diners sum up the salty bacon and crispy onion pairing in one word: 'genius.'

At Hank's, gourmet touches abound, from the inclusion of wagyu beef and lobster offerings on the hot dog menu to inventive sides like white truffle mac 'n' cheese. The joint takes its bacon seriously too; just take a look at the taste bud–tingling Fat Boy for proof. This decadent 'dog features a thick, bacon-wrapped all-beef sausage that's deep-fried to perfection.

Start your day on the right note with these fully loaded, bacon-stuffed breakfast tacos from Tin Roof Tacos. Set up by two sisters from Texas, this restaurant has three locations in Idaho, and each one is renowned for its exceptional customer service and great value. In addition to a diverse selection of breakfast tacos, customers can explore a tempting lunch and dinner menu featuring pork, chicken, beef, and veggie options.

For a sophisticated twist on the classic cheeseburger, make your way to Au Cheval in Chicago. This high-brow burger boasts plenty of rich flavors, from the juicy beef patty and gooey melted cheese to the perfectly toasted bun. Elevate your experience by opting to add some (seriously) thick-cut bacon and a runny fried egg – a decision you'll surely savor.

The classic BLT is given a luxurious upgrade at this bustling farm-to-table brunch and lunch spot, with a perfectly flaky, buttery house-baked croissant taking the place of bread. Rize, which has three branches across the state, is renowned for using top-quality ingredients from local farms in its dishes. The signature BLT croissant is absolutely stuffed with the crispiest thick-cut bacon, juicy tomatoes, and farm-fresh greens, with a garnish of garlic aioli and a Thai basil vinaigrette to cut through all that richness.

Not many eateries do the most important meal of the day quite like The Breakfast Club. Among the small chain's plentiful offering of classics and modern favorites, you'll find the pancake sandwich. Featuring a heap of bacon, scrambled eggs, and American cheese in a pancake 'bun,' it's the perfect dish to order when you're not quite sure what you want to eat.

Locally owned Wichita bar and grill The Anchor is the perfect laid-back spot to indulge in a selection of superb burgers. The star of the show is the bleu cheese and bacon, which combines plenty of crispy bacon, tangy blue cheese, and a generous handful of whiskey-glazed onions.

If you love dishes packed with sweet and salty flavors, you're likely aware of the magical touch bacon can bring to sugary treats. At Nord's Bakery in Louisville, you can bite into a maple-glazed donut adorned with crunchy, savory bacon – and the combination is heavenly. While it may not be to everyone's taste, devoted fans simply can't resist its allure.

At meat lover's mecca Cochon Butcher in New Orleans, smoked bacon is a specialty – and it's used to mouth-watering effect in the restaurant's tempting array of sandwiches, from the Buckboard Bacon Melt (with Swiss cheese and collard greens) to classic, fully loaded BLTs. It's the melt that really gets people talking, though. Gloriously cheesy and rich in smoky flavor, customers have described it as the 'best thing to happen to bacon since eggs.' Praise doesn't get any higher than that!

A much-loved eatery with several locations throughout Maine, The Holy Donut offers an incredible range of donuts, from classics like vanilla glazed to fancier creations like honey lavender (plus monthly specials). However, we think the bacon Cheddar is the best of them all. A delectably hearty bake, it's filled with plenty of crispy bacon and melty Cheddar – a combination that pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet dough. Want even more bacon? Try the maple bacon donut – fans say it's like breakfast in donut form.

There's a handful of Abbey Burger Bistro spots scattered across Maryland, so there's no reason to miss out on the chance to sample the small chain's array of inventive burgers. The true standout is the Baltimore Burger, featuring a thick layer of crab dip generously spread on top of piles of crispy bacon. It's definitely one for those who love the addictive combination of salty bacon and sweet, tender shellfish meat.

The ultimate comfort food, this dish is neither nachos, nor Irish – but when it was temporarily taken off the menu, over 3,000 people signed a petition to get it back. To make it, traditional tortilla chips are swapped out in favor of waffle fries, which are then topped with a mountain of bacon, cheese, and scallions. Diners say they love the salty hit from the bacon, which contrasts perfectly with the spicy jalapeños and cooling sour cream.

Some heroic feats are achieved through strength, courage, or intelligence – but in Birch Run, Tony’s has achieved legendary status simply by piling up mounds of crispy bacon on pretty much every one of its dishes. Filled with no less than one pound of delicious bacon, the BLT is the decadent creation that keeps customers coming back for more. The restaurant is located just off Interstate 75, luring in weary travelers with its enticing aromas and friendly hospitality.  

If you like your burgers particularly bacon-y, be sure to seek out Granite City's Millionaire bacon burger. It's made by covering a beef patty in melted white Cheddar, then stacking it high with 'millionaire's bacon' – an addictive version of candied bacon that sees the meaty strips bathed in brown sugar and maple syrup, then spiced with pepper flakes and chili peppers. It's filling and totally indulgent, and customers love it.

As its name implies, Big Bad Breakfast is the place to go when you're on the lookout for a satisfying plate filled with breakfast classics. One such dish is the Redneck Benny – a twist on eggs Benedict that swaps an English muffin for a biscuit, and Hollandaise sauce for sausage gravy. While the standard menu version comes with country ham, you can ask for heaps of crispy BBQ spicy bacon instead. The result is something to behold!

Songbird isn't just a place for exceptional food; its expertise in crafting quality brews is unmatched too, so it's also a haven for coffee aficionados. Among its culinary delights, however, is The Combo. This breakfast sandwich has garnered a dedicated fan base thanks to its irresistible combination of aged Cheddar, smoked bacon, a perfect poached egg, and a touch of honey, all nestled between toasted sourdough slices.

Although The Burger Dive is better known for its award-winning burgers, as far as bacon lovers are concerned, the star of the show is the 'Mazatlan' Mexican Dog. This decadent hotdog is packed full of shredded cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole, chipotle mayo, and, of course, layers of crispy pan-fried bacon. It's the perfect mix of fresh and salty flavors – and it's incredibly filling too, according to those who've tried it.

For those who love adding bacon to every possible meal, this might well be the greatest burger ever! Pairing a classic beef patty with bacon, griddled onions, and American cheese, this dish is one of those timeless American classics that's impossible to resist. Want even more bacon? No problem – there's the option to double up.

Slater's indulgent 24K Burger is the epitome of Las Vegas luxury and extravagance. Made with a generous half-pound wagyu beef patty, it's topped with 'billionaire bacon,' coated in nothing less than 24-carat gold. Pushing the opulence envelope further is the decadent truffle cheese and bacon jam topping – and the whole lot comes packed inside a brioche bun dusted with yet more gold. There are two equally fabulous Slater's locations in Sin City.

The customers at this classic diner in New Hampshire are big fans of the Bacon Bene – a very bacon-y take on classic brunch dish eggs Benedict. While it might not be anything particularly revolutionary, diners appreciate the perfect crispiness of the bacon, as well as the generous portion size; it comes with your choice of country fries, hash browns, beans, tomatoes, or, for a little extra, pan fries.

After winning bacon-loving New Jerseyites' hearts as a phenomenal food truck (which is still going strong), Bake'n Bacon has finally made the transition to a bricks-and-mortar joint, spreading salty, savory joy to the residents of Cape May. As you'd expect, the menu is abundant in belly-busting bacon delights, but it's the bacon brisket sandwich that garners the highest praise. The specialty sandwich is a meaty triumph, made with thick-cut bacon, smoked brisket, and bacon BBQ sauce, complete with bacon chunks.

The Urban Hotdog Company has so many amazing options on its mouth-watering menu that you might find it tough to choose. However, if you're a bacon fan, we suggest you set your sights on the BB&C – featuring a beef frankfurter that's wrapped tightly with plenty of bacon, fried to perfection, then topped with melted Cheddar, red onions, and the joint's special bourbon BBQ sauce. There are two restaurant locations in Albuquerque, plus a food truck.

A totally unique bar snack, this genius dish was masterminded by multi-award-winning chef David Burke. Clothesline Bacon is exactly as it sounds, featuring thick-cut bacon suspended from a wire by clothespins. The one-of-a-kind dish employs gravity to add flavor to a slice of pickle that sits beneath the meaty strips, with the fat dripping down in the most tantalizing fashion. The result? A sumptuous taste that'll blow your mind.

Merritt's Store & Grill, beloved by students from the nearby University of North Carolina, is renowned for its lineup of timeless sandwiches such as chicken salad and club. However, it's their iconic BLT that steals the show and keeps patrons returning time and again. Crafted with your choice of bread, this masterpiece is loaded with ample portions of crispy bacon, lettuce, and ripe vine tomatoes. Whether you opt for a single, double, or the belly-busting triple, it's one of the finest BLTs around.

This charming bakery is another eatery paying homage to the King of Rock 'n' Roll with a sweet and bacon-y creation. The Elvis is a playful tribute to Elvis Presley's favorite sandwich. Here, the iconic combination of banana, peanut butter, and bacon is reimagined as a donut, complete with a chocolate drizzle for an extra touch of indulgence.

As its name implies, Dough Mama celebrates all things baked and filled with carbs. Among its incredible selection of bakery treats, pies, and sandwiches is the Biscuit BLT. In a twist on the traditional sandwich, Dough Mama swaps out the bread for a Cheddar and scallion biscuit, which is then filled with the usual ingredients of bacon, tomato, and lettuce, plus cream cheese and red pepper jelly. It's the perfect blend of sweet, salty, juicy, and creamy.

Love a pre-appetizer snack? Then you’ll definitely want to sink your teeth into these sweet and sticky Brussels sprouts. At Packard's, the crowd-dividing vegetables get a stylish makeover, complete with ponzu caramel, crispy bacon, spicy jalapeños, and cashews. The bacon adds a touch of saltiness that balances the sweetness of the caramel perfectly.

Screen Door is so beloved in Portland that it now has two locations – and both are packed most of the time. One menu item that keeps customers coming back is the unique Praline Bacon brunch starter. It's a simple yet oh-so-addictive dish, made by caramelizing thick-cut strips of smoked bacon with toasted pecans, brown sugar, and cayenne. Salty, sweet perfection!

The bacon flight at Bacon, Bourbon & Beer takes bacon lovers on a taste journey with the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. As part of the indulgent dish, diners enjoy two slabs of crispy bacon flavored with candied jalapeño and Cheddar, bourbon and brown sugar, Cajun spice and blue cheese, and Sarris chocolate. There's a second location of the popular restaurant in Morgantown, too.

Providence hotspot The Malted Barley is a pretzel lover's paradise. A yeasted pretzel dough is meticulously prepared here every day before dawn, ensuring it's ready for shaping, twisting, and baking by the time the joint opens its doors. The best thing on the menu is unquestionably the BLT, featuring all the classic ingredients – including plenty of bacon, and a choice of aioli dressing (garlic, pesto, or chipotle).

At Nose Dive, bacon gets a seriously decadent makeover: say hello to the warm, luscious candied bacon brownie, complete with savory bacon chunks. This indulgent treat comes crowned with a scoop of peanut butter ice cream, a scattering of salty-sweet caramel popcorn, and a velvety chocolate caramel sauce. Diners confirm it's just as addictive as it sounds.

How do you make steak even more delicious? Easy – add bacon! The Alpine Inn amps up its filet mignon dish by wrapping the steak in bacon strips before cooking, thus preserving the juices (and imparting a smoky and salty flavor as the fat and juices mix). Served with a baked potato, it's a hearty, satisfying dish you won't forget.

Can't decide what to eat for breakfast at The Loveless Cafe? Simple – order the Southern Sampler. This hearty platter comes loaded with a little bit of everything, featuring country ham, sausage, two eggs, and of course, a side of perfectly cooked, irresistibly tasty bacon. Bacon really is a big deal here; the best in the state, it's dry-rubbed with salt and sugar, then naturally smoked until golden brown. You can even buy packs of the restaurant's signature meaty strips to take away and cook at home, including delectable maplewood and applewood-smoked varieties.

Leave it up to Texans to find a new and creative way to serve bacon. You might have heard of chicken fried steak, but you probably haven't seen bacon cooked the same way – that is, until now. While some imitations might exist, Sodolak's claims to be the birthplace of this decadent dish. It's made exactly how you think: by dredging bacon strips in batter, then deep frying. Customers say it's nothing short of exceptional.

Little Midway, in Northern Utah, offers a charming escape for tourists and Utahns alike. Among its gems is the Midway Mercantile Restaurant, a cheerful, family-run establishment housed within a historic general store dating back to 1874. Here, diners can indulge in a menu of modern takes on classic American food – including bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with a blue cheese mousse. Available as an appetizer, this irresistible dish features the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Creative takes on mac 'n' cheese abound in the US, but this dish is unlike any other. A true belly-buster, this cheesy, carb-loaded offering features a classic macaroni base, topped with crispy bacon and a fried egg. We're not quite sure whether it's a breakfast, brunch, or lunch dish – but frankly, why should anyone care, as long as it's this delicious?

How do you improve on chicken and waffles? Add a bacon crumb – and plenty of it! Capitol Waffle Shop customers rave about the Virginia chain's extensive selection of waffles, but Mother Clucker is a particular standout. Blurring the lines between brunch and dessert, the dish comprises a half-size waffle crowned with crispy fried chicken tenders, complete with a herby Cap’n Crunch cereal coating. The dish is served with a double portion of dessert nachos and finished with the aforementioned bacon crumb.

There are plenty of enticing Chicago-style deep-dish pies on the menu at this popular pizzeria, but there's one that will immediately stand out to meat lovers. True to its name, the Meatza pie is a real meat feast, topped with the restaurant’s signature crumbled, candied bacon, pepperoni, and house sausage. It's the ultimate pizza for those who want to indulge in a pork-centric feast.

Although it's not on the regular menu, the hot chicken sandwich makes pretty regular appearances on the specials board at Wood Iron Eatery. Customers love the generous addition of candied bacon, which adds a mouth-wateringly sweet and smoky flavor to the burger. Located in a charming wooden house just up the hill from Main Street, this beloved Fayetteville joint is known for its delicious food and excellent coffee.

Highly rated for its juicy, creative burgers and stacked-high sandwiches, 11:11 has a menu so good you might find it difficult to figure out what to order. However, it’s hard to beat the Tequila Jam Burger, which comes stuffed with pepperjack cheese and topped with brown sugar bacon and house-made tequila jam. We’d also suggest the Baconeater for a unique twist on the classic bacon cheeseburger. This meaty creation sees strips of bacon and slices of American cheese not only added to the top of the patty, but also to the bottom. 

Classy establishment Café Genevieve might not be the first place you'd expect to find a meaty snack that's designed to be eaten with your hands. However, the eatery's famous Pig Candy – made by coating thick, applewood-smoked bacon in a blend of sugar and spices – is so good that it's spawned a cult following. You might even recognize it from Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

Now discover the best chicken sandwich in every state

Last updated by Dominique Ayling.