Driving from RI to OR, regional food recommendations?

[geschwho]

I'm driving cross country from RI to OR next week and interested in some food/driving recommendations. I don't have my route nailed down exactly so I'm open to all suggestions. I'm an amateur bread baker really interested in traditional and old world style baking techniques. I'm also really interested in places that showcase a region's specialties. Road trips for me are all about seeing the country on a close local level so I'm also interested in routes that give me a sense of the local culture. I'd really appreciate any of your tips on special bakeries, areas with an ethnic or interesting food focus, dishes synonymous with a particular area or just unique spots. Thanks everyone!

[cleobeach]

I live in central PA and sadly the best regional dishes (like Polish dishes) aren't easily found at restaurants. There are popular places down in the Lancaster area that "specialize" in PA Dutch food presented buffet style but I wouldn't go out of my way to visit any of them.

If you really want to get close on a local level, there are a number of Amish/Mennonite farms that host visitors in their homes for meals. I just saw an ad for one in a magazine that is located a reasonable distance from Interstate 80. The mags is at home (I am at work) and if you are interested, I can post the information later.

There are some routes and spots in the Coal Region that we revisit once in a while, along Route 61. If you come that way, I could throw out a few suggestions for both good and interesting spots. (warning, the interesting spots might not have the best food but you will have an authenic experience)

The Yuenglng Brewery tour in Pottsville is a great stop. The brewery is built into the side of the mountain and is old, America's oldest! Weekday tours occur with the plant is in production.