One of the highlights of any trip to the U.S. is getting to taste different foods that we see on TV and in film. For those who can’t make the trip, they desperately try to recreate American food at home or in local restaurants, but nothing beats the real deal. We look at 18 quintessential American foods that foreigners are desperate to try:
New York Pizza
Renowned for its thin, foldable crust and super-sized slices, New York pizza is a must-try for any tourists.. The classic cheese slice is a favorite, but you can also enjoy a range of toppings including pepperoni and buffalo chicken. Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village is a New York institution and John’s of Bleecker Street is also adored by locals and tourists.
Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza
Rivaling New York’s thin crust, Chicago’s deep-dish pizza is known for its thick, buttery crust, packed with layers of cheese and chunky tomato sauce. Chicago pizza is typically enjoyed with a knife and fork as the generous filling makes it hard to eat folded in your hands.
Southern Fried Chicken
You can get fried chicken all over the world but as it’s a staple of Southern cuisine nobody does it better than the U.S. Great fried chicken consists of juicy meat and a perfectly seasoned crust that’s often served with coleslaw, mashed potatoes and cornbread.
Buffalo Wings
Originating from Buffalo, New York, these spicy chicken wings are a favorite among football fans, whether eaten at the game or at a bar with a beer. In the U.S., these wings are usually served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing to balance the heat of these fiery treats.
Barbecue Ribs
American barbecue varies by region, but slow-cooked ribs are universally loved, and people cannot wait to get their hands on them. Whether slathered in a tangy tomato-based sauce in Kansas City or a vinegar-based sauce in North Carolina, once you taste a true American barbecue, nothing else will come close.
Lobster Roll
Lobster rolls are a New England specialty made with fresh lobster meat tossed with mayonnaise or butter and served in a toasted bun. They’re a luxurious treat that you can eat cold in summer months or warm in cooler climates, served dripping in melted butter.
Texas Brisket
Texas-style brisket showcases the art of slow-cooking. Quality cuts if beef are seasoned with a simple rub of salt and pepper then smoked for hours until tender and full of flavor. Brisket is typically served with pickles, onions, barbecue sauce and a cold beer, of course.
Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly Cheesesteak is the iconic sandwich from Philadelphia made with thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and grilled onions in a hoagie roll. A savory, gooey indulgence that has people from around the world dreaming about them.
Clam Chowder
New England clam chowder is a creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and celery. It is usually served in a bread bowl or with oyster crackers and is the perfect comfort food in cold weather.
Apple Pie
Apple pie is synonymous with American culture, with every home enjoying its own version of this sweet dessert. Made with sweetened apple slices, cinnamon, and a flaky crust, it’s often enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and is even eaten for breakfast. There are lots of versions of apple pie throughout the world, but having a warm slice at a classic American diner is on the bucket list for lots of people.
Thanksgiving Turkey
Thanksgiving turkey is more than just a roast dinner; it’s a true celebration of traditional American life. The turkey is roasted and stuffed, then served with cranberry sauce, gravy, and an array of side dishes, including the unusual sweet potato and marshmallow casserole.
Macaroni and Cheese
A true comfort food classic, macaroni, and cheese combine simple pasta with a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to barbecue and fried chicken. Modern toppings include beef brisket and chorizo, or you can stay classic all the way.
Corn Dog
Corn dogs are popular at fairs and football games. They consist of a hot dog on a stick coated in a cornmeal batter and deep-fried. It’s a fun and portable snack enjoyed with mustard or ketchup that foreigners can’t wait to try.
New Orleans Po’Boy
This New Orleans titan is made with fried shrimp, oysters, or roast beef, dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise on a crusty French bread roll. The LA Times reported that one popular New Orleans bakery has made as many as four trips in one day to some customers, a testament to just how much people love this iconic sandwich.
California Burrito
A staple of Southern California, this burrito is filled with carne asada, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and, surprisingly, French fries. The addition of fried is unusual but showcases how great Americans are at fusing dishes with their neighbors in Mexico.
Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a flavorful one-pot dish from Louisiana, combining rice with a mix of meats such as sausage, chicken, and seafood, alongside vegetables and Creole spices. It’s a hearty, spicy meal that’s reflective of New Orleans cuisine and is difficult to recreate outside of the city.
New York Bagel with Lox
A New York bagel is known for its chewy texture and is often enjoyed with cream cheese and cured salmon. Capers, red onions, and tomatoes also feature on this brunch time favorite but, honestly, a true New York Bagel is perfect just on its own.
Banana Split
This classic American dessert is banana sliced lengthwise topped with scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream, and finished with whipped cream, nuts, and maraschino cherries. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for sharing and the ultimate treat for tourists after a busy day of exploring.
15 Foods You Shouldn’t Eat After 50
Age is just a number, but not regarding eating habits. The older you grow, the more your body needs nutritious food to stay fit and healthy. While there are many things you’re encouraged to eat, when you cross 50, your go-to foods can’t look the same as they once were. Your body is changing, and so should your eating habits.
Read: 15 Foods You Shouldn’t Eat After 50
15 Restaurant Dishes That Are Total Rip-Off
From overpriced appetizers to “premium” entrees that fail to deliver, these are the dishes restaurants use to boost their profits at your expense. Learn which seemingly luxurious items are cheap to produce and which classic menu tricks to watch out for. Don’t let your next meal out leave a bad taste in your mouth – or a dent in your budget.
Read: 15 Restaurant Dishes That Are Total Rip-Off
18 Foods You Should Eat Every Day
There are many foods, such as leafy greens, berries, and whole grains, which are full of things like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help your body function at its best. Experts recommend you should eat these 18 foods every day to live a healthier life.
