Top Culinary Delights in the USA
No matter where you roam in the USA, you’re never far from an outstanding meal. Sizzling steaks, mouthwatering seafood, and farm-fresh produce are all part of the culinary bounty of one of the world’s great food destinations.
Menus and specialties vary widely from region to region, leading to an extensive array of food and drink experiences. Travelers can enjoy smoky Texas barbecue joints, lobster shacks in New England, and decadent dessert shops in the South, alongside diverse cuisines from across the globe in larger cities and smaller towns.
Bite into a slice of pizza
Pizza originated in the 1900s through Italian immigrants and quickly became a national favorite. While Chicago-style pizza is deep dish and Californian tends to be light and doughy, New York prides itself on its thin crust.
Make a meal out of tacos and other Mexican foods
Many Americans rank Mexican food or Tex-Mex at the top of their list of dining favorites. Tacos, burritos, and other quick foods are prevalent, especially from food trucks and casual sit-down restaurants that often pair meals with margaritas, chips, and salsa.
Indulge in America’s finest barbecue
Barbecue is a significant part of American cuisine, especially in the South, where it dates back to colonial times. From Kansas City’s burnt ends to Carolina’s pulled pork and Texas’ meaty offerings, the variety is vast.
Enjoy classic comfort fare in a diner
Simple and hearty meals are a hallmark of American cuisine. Comfort foods evoke nostalgia, including mac ‘n’ cheese, chicken noodle soup, and hamburgers, with diners serving time-honored recipes and creative spins alike.
Munch your way around the globe in NYC
New York City’s extensive array of restaurants allows you to experience foods from virtually every culture. With over 24,000 eateries in Manhattan alone, food from Italian to Ethiopian is at your fingertips.
Explore the hearty cooking of the Deep South
The South boasts a unique food culture blending Anglo, French, African, Spanish, and Native American influences, featuring slow-cooked pulled pork and crispy fried chicken. Desserts often include layer cakes and flavorful pies.
Get your fill of gumbo and other Louisiana favorites
Louisiana’s cuisine stands out with its Cajun and Creole dishes influenced by French, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean cooking. Signature dishes include gumbo, jambalaya, and a variety of seafood specialties.
Feast on fresh-off-the-boat seafood
In New England, fresh seafood is abundant, with clams, mussels, and lobster being favorites. Enjoy a good chowder or lobster roll while sitting down at a local seafood shack.
Beer, wine, everything’s fine!
American beer is as iconic as apple pie, with a remarkable growth of microbreweries and craft beers enhancing options across the country. Furthermore, America produces nearly 14% of the world’s wine, with California leading the charge.
Vegans and vegetarians
The US has made significant progress in plant-based dining, with vegetarian and vegan options readily available in numerous regions, including meat-loving states. Food halls and specialty restaurants cater to plant-based diets with a range of delicious choices.
