The United States’ food scene is a fusion of eclectic flavors and bold inventions, but some foods are quintessentially American and raise the eyebrows of international visitors.
From sweet treats to savory staples, these are the dishes and snacks that raise eyebrows and rumble tummies around the world. A closer look at what foreigners dream of trying:
1. Classic Cheeseburger
The cheeseburger is an American icon, with its juicy beef patty, gooey cheese, and endless topping options. Whether diner-style simple or gourmet interpretations, every bite is a true expression of American comfort food. What really makes it unique is the balance of flavors: savory meat, creamy cheese, crisp lettuce, and tangy condiments, all nestled in a soft bun. Foreign visitors often marvel at its versatility, with regional variations like California-style avocado toppings or fiery jalapeños in the Southwest. The cheeseburger isn’t just food; it’s a cultural experience served with a side of nostalgia.
2. Barbecue Ribs
American barbecue ribs are a smoky, saucy masterpiece that celebrates the art of slow cooking. Each region puts its twist on it, from sweet, sticky Kansas City style to spicy, vinegar-heavy North Carolina. The tender meat, falling off the bone, is a testament to the hours of dedication and seasoning that go into every rack. International food lovers love the communal aspect of barbecues, where ribs are shared and the air is filled with irresistible aromas. The combination of smoky char, tangy sauce, and savory meat is unforgettable.
3. Macaroni and Cheese
This comforting, cheesy dish is a staple in many households and on dinner tables across America. It consists of tender pasta swathed in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, both simple and indulgent. They are amazed by how mac and cheese is done with a gourmet touch, such as breadcrumbs or specialty cheeses, or even how it is enjoyed straight out of a box. It is the epitome of comfort food, with warmth and nostalgia in every bite. Few dishes capture the hearts of visitors quite like this golden, gooey classic.
4. Buffalo Wings
You would know, though, that in that class of hot and bursting-with-flavor food would have to be the infamous buffalo wings. Originated in Buffalo, New York, they’re known for crispy skin, tangy hot sauce, and a cool ranch or blue cheese to dip in. Wings become that focal centerpiece to get-togethers when it is a big sports game on, or simply just that one night out. Their versatility shines with a variety of sauces, from mild and buttery to blazing hot or sweet and spicy. Visitors often find the finger-licking goodness of wings irresistible, paired perfectly with celery sticks and beer.
5. Apple Pie
Few desserts hold the same cultural significance as apple pie, a symbol of American tradition and hospitality. Its flaky crust and cinnamon-spiced apple filling create a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Often served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a sweet introduction to American baking. Foreigners admire the nostalgic value of apple pie, which often features in celebrations and holidays. Each slice carries the charm of small-town diners and family kitchens across the country.
6. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
The PB&J sandwich is an easygoing yet quintessential American snack that’s loved for its sweet-salty harmony. Creamy or crunchy peanut butter, along with fruity jelly, is a comforting and satisfying flavor combination. It’s a lunchbox staple and a comfort food for adults who grew up on it. International visitors are intrigued by its universal appeal and the variations, such as using gourmet nut butters or artisan bread. This humble sandwich offers a glimpse into the simplicity of American childhood favorites.
7. Fried Chicken
Crispy, golden, and juicy, fried chicken is a deeply cultural American treasure. Served in a bucket or on a fancy platter, it’s universally loved for that satisfying crunch and flavorful seasoning. Fried chicken in the Southern style-with its buttermilk soak and spice blends-is a wonder that delights the taste buds of every nationality. Visitors are often enchanted by its adaptability, from Nashville’s fiery hot chicken to Korean-American fusion versions. The sheer delight of a perfect bite into fried chicken is forever etched in one’s memory.
8. Cornbread
Cornbread is a staple of American Southern hospitality, with its soft, crumbly texture and subtle sweetness. It’s usually served as a side dish to accompany such heavy dishes as chili or barbecue. To international diners, it’s a fascinating creation, using cornmeal, which gives it a distinctive, earthy flavor. Variations like honey butter cornbread or jalapeño-infused versions add layers of complexity. Cornbread is more than a dish; it’s a comforting bite of Southern tradition.
9. Deep-dish Pizza of Chicago
Deep-dish inverts the norms of any pizza with its thick crust, multiple layers of cheese, and big chunks of tomato sauce. Native to Chicago, this is a crust-about-the-filling kind of proposal. It often strikes those who first try it as a thoroughly overindulgent affair, really no more similar to conventional pizza than it is to a meat-based savory pie. Each bite is a rich, satisfying mix of gooey cheese, robust sauce, and buttery crust. For many, deep-dish pizza is a bucket-list food that redefines their pizza expectations.
10. S’mores
S’mores capture the magic of American campfires, with toasted marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers. This treat is as much about the experience of roasting marshmallows over a flame as it is about the gooey goodness. Foreigners are in love with its simplicity and the retro feel it carries, often making it in less-than-traditional settings. Variations like peanut butter cups or caramel-filled chocolate bars give it a modern twist. S’mores are a sweet introduction to the joy of American outdoor traditions.
11. New York Cheesecake
New York cheesecake is the epitome of dessert elegance, with its creamy, dense texture and graham cracker crust. Its richness comes from a perfect balance of cream cheese, sugar, and eggs, baked to silky perfection. Visitors appreciate its adaptability, with flavors ranging from classic vanilla to strawberry swirl or chocolate marble. This dessert is a staple in delis and fine dining alike, making it accessible yet luxurious. A single bite offers a decadent taste of New York’s culinary legacy.
12. Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuits and gravy are hearty breakfast fare that epitomizes the best of Southern cuisine. Fluffy, buttery biscuits are smothered in a creamy sausage gravy spiced with black pepper. To foreign palates, it’s often one of those unusual yet uttely comforting dishes, with its rich, savory flavors. It’s the staple of American diners and breakfast tables, reflecting warmth and hospitality. In this dish, simplicity hides a deeply satisfying and beloved classic.
13. Clam Chowder
Clam chowder is a type of rich, creamy soup that really brings out the flavors of America’s coasts. The New England version, with its thick base, tender clams, and chunks of potato, is the most iconic. Served in a bread bowl or with oyster crackers, it’s a comforting dish with a hearty appeal. Visitors often appreciate its connection to seaside culture and its ability to warm the soul. It is outstanding, as it will balance well between creamy broth and fresh seafood.
14. Hot Dogs
The hot dog is one of the most typically American foods and is especially great for eating on the go at festivals or baseball games. The original consists of a steamed or grilled sausage served in a soft bun and topped with mustard, ketchup, or relish. Regional styles, like Chicago dogs with pickles and sport peppers or New York’s simple onion sauce, highlight the dish’s versatility. International visitors find the creativity in toppings and preparation fascinating. Few foods are as synonymous with American culture as the humble hot dog.
15. Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Pancakes are the favorite breakfast item, which is loved for their fluffiness and sweet maple syrup topping. They usually come in stacks and are accompanied by butter, fresh fruits, or whipped cream. International diners love the indulgence of syrup-soaked pancakes, which are both filling and a delight to eat. Variants like blueberry or chocolate chip pancakes add extra charm to this morning classic. Pancakes represent the comfort of an American leisurely breakfast.
16. Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is a holiday dessert that really captures the flavor of fall with its spiced pumpkin filling and flaky crust. It is a dessert commonly served during Thanksgiving, which evokes celebration and tradition. Foreigners are drawn to its unique flavor-a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Whipped cream on top makes it a cozy and aromatic treat that introduces visitors to American holiday customs. Its warm, earthy sweetness will linger on.
17. Sourdough Bread
Sourdough bread is the quintessential artisanal bread with its tangy flavor and chewy crust. Originated in San Francisco, the bread has a particular place in American food history. Tourists marvel at the craftsmanship that goes into making it, from the laborious fermentation to the distinctive flavor. Sourdough is generally served with butter, soup, or deli meat for added taste. Its distinct taste and texture make it more than just bread and a true taste of America’s artisanal baking.
