The Reef in Biloxi has mastered the art of the chargrilled oyster so completely that Mississippians will happily drive hours just to experience these flame-kissed delicacies in their natural habitat.

Nestled in the heart of Cape Cod’s Wellfleet, Mac’s Shack stands as a temple to what might be Massachusetts’ most sublime lobster roll—a creation so perfect it has its own fan club, unofficial though ...