Caution: this blog post might make your stomach growl a little louder than usual!
Food is a major part of travel. At a minimum, it gives you the energy you need as you tackle long days and packed itineraries. For us, it’s a vital part of our experience. We love to explore new places through the types of food the locals enjoy. That includes our own backyard: the United States of America.
We have visited all 50 states, and we have experienced dozens of delicious, iconic meals. In fact, we have often made it our mission to seek out traditional American food that is widely considered representative of a region. Before we travel we like to research the famous restaurants and menu items in the cities and states we’re planning to visit. There’s usually a (delicious) reason why a certain type of food is associated with a city, state, or region! While this is not a definitive list, it does include a lot of our most memorable favorites.
If you are planning to visit any of these regions, don’t miss out on trying their featured menu item. We hope this list will help you on your culinary adventures—and we hope it doesn’t make your stomach growl too loudly!
Famous American food in the Northeast
I grew up in the USA’s Northeast, so when I think of these foods, I think of home.
► Lobster
Road Unraveled Tip:
We have a few favorite places for lobster rolls in Maine. Red’s Eats in Wiscasset is famous for serving delicious lobster rolls- join the long line and know it’s worth the wait! Robert’s Maine Grill in Kittery is another one of our favorite places to enjoy an iconic Maine lobster roll.
More Information: RedsEatsMaine.com | RobertsMaineGrill.com
► Clam Chowder
As a Bostonian, I have to insist there is only one kind of clam chowder: the white, cream-based kind. It’s popular around the country, but a visit to New England almost necessitates that you start a meal or two with a cup of “chowdah.” If you visit Rhode Island or New York you will likely find the tomato-based version on the menu. I’ll admit that one is good, but given the choice you can’t go wrong with traditional New England clam chowder.
Road Unraveled Tip:
Legal Sea Foods hasn’t changed their clam chowder recipe in almost 40 years- it’s always tasty, and you’ll find locations all over the country.
► Blueberries
One of my favorite childhood memories is of blueberry picking under the warm Maine sun. My grandmother would take me to one of the many “U-Pick” blueberry farms in central Maine, and we would spend a whole afternoon filling cartons to take home with us (and, of course, sneaking the occasional berry as an immediate treat). That evening, she would convert our haul into delicious blueberry cakes that would melt in my mouth fresh from the oven. July is Blueberry Month, so if your travels take you to the Northeast in mid-summer, you’ll be rewarded!
► New York Pizza
Pizza in itself is pretty iconic in the USA, but a slice of New York pizza is almost a right of passage when you visit the Northeast. Often characterized by large slices that can be folded in half to eat, you’ll find it throughout New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
Road Unraveled Tip:
Adam and I have both been to John’s Pizzaria in New York City (the Times Square location), and despite going separately we both loved our experience- the pizza is delicious!
More Information: JohnsPizzeriaNYC.com
► Buffalo Wings
More Information: AnchorBar.com
► Bagels
Whenever I’m in New York, I get the impression almost everyone starts their day with a bagel and cream cheese. There really does seem to be something in the water; bagels that are boiled in Brooklyn water just taste better to me. I order mine with lox, tomato, capers, and onions; in fact, no visit to NYC is complete for me until I have had a New York bagel.
► Clam Cakes
Most notably found in Rhode Island, clam cakes are a little bit like donuts. Often served alongside chowder or as finger food, they are made of chopped clams and batter that is deep-fried. They are a tasty snack that is pretty popular in that part of the world, especially on the coast!
Road Unraveled Tip:
The clam cakes at Hemenway’s in Providence, Rhode Island are very nicely prepared. If you don’t make it south to Narragansett or Newport, you can still try authentic clam cakes in Rhode Island’s capital.
More Information: HemenwaysRestaurant.com
Famous American food in the Southwest
It’s been a while since we last visited the Southwest, but there are some memorable meals to be had in that part of the country!
► Hatch Green Chiles
There is nothing else quite like a freshly roasted Hatch chile. Grown in New Mexico’s Hatch Valley, these peppers can range a bit in spiciness, and they can be enjoyed on their own, as a sauce, or even on a burger. While we love Hatch green chiles the most, you’ll find red chiles in New Mexico as well—in fact, when you place an order in a restaurant, you’ll often be asked, “Red or green?” to determine your chile preference.
Road Unraveled Tip:
If your travels take you to Albuquerque, New Mexico, try a fiesta burger with green chile at the Frontier Restaurant.
More Information: FrontierRestaurant.com
► Frybread
Frybread is deeply rooted in Navajo tradition; developed out of necessity when Native American tribes were forced to relocate to the Southwest, it remains a common dish (although what we find in restaurants can be different from how it is prepared within a tribe). A common variation is the Najajo taco, which is frybread topped with ground beef, tomatoes, sour cream, or other typical taco filings. We loved the Navajo taco we had in Monument Valley at The View hotel.
► Chicken Fried Steak
The official state meal of Oklahoma actually resembles wiener schnitzel: it’s a piece of tenderized steak that is breaded and fried. While it’s typically served for lunch or dinner, you’ll also find it on breakfast menus from time to time.
► Tex-Mex
Americanized Mexican food is now popular all over the world, but if there’s such a thing as “authentic” Tex-Mex you’ll find it in the Southwest. When you think of burritos, hard-shell tacos, nachos, and chimichangas, you’re thinking of Tex-Mex. Many of these meals are based on real Mexican cuisine, but they take on true Tex-Mex characteristics with the addition of ingredients not typically used in Mexico, like shredded cheese
Road Unraveled Tip:
When it comes to burritos, some of our favorites can be found in San Diego—home to the classic California burritos. Sometimes called Surfer Burritos, they’re not Tex-Mex (technically it’s Cal-Mex), but these burritos are some of the best you’ll find in the USA. While ingredients may vary, the typical California burrito is a jumbo tortillas stuffed with carne asada, pico de gallo, guacamole, cheese, and the pièce de résistance: a handful of french fries! They are a must-try if you’re ever in San Diego.
Our Post: 20 Things to Do in San Diego, California
Famous American food in the Mid-Atlantic
Our home is now in the USA’s Mid-Atlantic region, and we have no shortage of delicious foods to try!
► Blue Crab
Road Unraveled Tip:
We love Cantler’s in Maryland for fresh crabs, crab cakes, and cream of crab soup. If you’re passing through Annapolis, be sure to stop in!
More Information: Cantlers.com
► Cheesesteak
If you visit Philadelphia, make a point to try a cheesesteak. These sandwiches made from thinly sliced beef and cheese on a long roll are delicious. There are two famous places to order one—Pat’s and Gino’s— so if you’re in the city for more than a day (or you’re just really hungry!) order one from each establishment and decide which you like more. While American and Cheez Wiz are the most popular cheese choices, I order mine with Provolone.
More Information: GadsbysTavernRestaurant.com | GenoSteaks.com
► Peanuts
Grown in Virginia’s southeastern region, Virginia peanuts are sometimes known as ballpark peanuts. They tend to be large, and they make a great choice for homemade peanut butter. While you’ll easily find gourmet Virginia peanuts, especially in gift shops, look for them in soup—yes, soup. Peanut soup is a delicious regional specialty that’s worth tasting if you can find it!
Road Unraveled Tip:
If you want to try peanut soup, Gadsby’s Tavern is a beautiful, historic restaurant in Alexandria, Virginia that serves an authentic recipe.
More Information: GadsbysTavernRestaurant.com
► Half Smokes
Road Unraveled Tip:
Don’t miss Ben’s Chili Bowl, a DC institution that has served half smokes to locals, tourists, celebrities, and politicians since 1958.
More Information: BensChiliBowl.com
► Virginia Ham Biscuits
Virginia is fairly well-known when it comes to ham, and ham biscuits are a tasty and portable way to enjoy it. You’ll find a wide variety of interpretations, but the best ones are simple: fresh biscuits topped with sliced ham and a little bit of mustard.
► Old Bay
OK, this isn’t a food you’re going to find on a menu, but you’ll find plenty of meals featuring this seasoning created in Maryland. Most commonly served on seafood (especially crab!), Old Bay is so popular you’ll find it served with popcorn, potato chips, corn on the cob, and baked potatoes. Old Bay is fairly versatile—we especially love it on salmon!
Famous American food in the Great Plains
My very first business trip was a road trip through several of the Plains states—and in between meetings I learned this part of the country serves some delicious food!
► Steak
No self-respecting list of American food could leave off steak. No matter how it’s prepared, red meat eaters will find the Plains states to be paradise when it come to finding and savoring a nice, juicy steak. With many cattle farms located in this region, you’ll find plenty of great restaurants serving your favorite cut.
► Bison
An alternative to the more commonly consumed hamburger, bison meat is leaner and more tender than its counterpart. Americans have been slow to accept bison into their diets, but if you enjoy a good burger and haven’t tried bison you’ll be surprised by just how flavorful it is.
► Burnt Ends
I know, there’s a lot of red meat in this section, but we would be remiss if we didn’t mention this dish—especially since the name suggests you should skip it. Burnt ends are now considered almost a delicacy by barbeque lovers, especially in Kansas City, where the fatty ends of beef brisket are covered in sauce and served with a few sides.
► Cinnamon Rolls
Kansas City has some of the best barbecue in the United States, but did you know it is also one of the best places to find cinnamon rolls? The city was named by Conde Nast Traveler as having the best cinnamon rolls in the country, and you’ll find them on the menu in just about every restaurant during your visit. From gigantic plate-sized rolls to more moderate portions featuring creative toppings, you’ll have a hard time finding a better variety of cinnamon rolls during your travels.
► Texas Chili
Texas Chili is both very simple and remarkably complex all at the same time. The ingredients list is what keeps it simple: beef, chili paste, and seasonings. The preparation, though, requires mastering an art form: choosing just the right balance of ingredients and cooking it just long enough for the beef to become tender and the spices to combine. Properly done, Texas Chili is hearty and filling.
Famous American food in the Great Pacific Northwest and California
Adam originally hails from the Great Pacific Northwest, and we’ve had some great meals when we visit!
► Fish
Road Unraveled Tip:
If you’re visiting Portland, try Jake’s for great local fish, crab, and crawfish. Currently owned by McCormick and Schmicks, Jake’s has been a popular seafood restaurant in downtown Portland for more than 125 years.
More Information: McCormickandSchmicks.com
► Alaskan King Crab
This kind of crab can be served as a crab cake, but we think it’s best on its own—Alaskan king crabs are maybe best known for their flaky, sweet taste, and they can be eaten right out of the shell. Make sure you are hungry when you try them—some crab legs can weigh an entire pound!
► Walla Walla Sweet Onions
Have you ever eaten an onion like an apple? Walla Walla sweet onions are so mild you might consider doing just that—and some people do! We prefer them in the form of onion rings, though, and during the summer in the Northwest you’ll find plenty of restaurants preparing them that way as well as incorporating them into plenty of other recipes.
Road Unraveled Tip:
Believe it or not, our favorite Walla Walla sweet onion rings come from Burgerville, a pacific northwest fast food chain. They are seasonal, but if you see them they are worth a trip through the drive-thru!
More Information: Burgerville.com
► Sourdough
Our Post: 8 Can’t-Miss Spots in San Francisco
► Dungeness Crab
Alaska isn’t the only crab-producing state in the Northwest! Our favorite Dungeness crabs are found in Washington- steamed and served with some melted butter they make a great local meal.
► Cioppino
This dish, which is a tomato-based seafood stew, is often made with the catch of the day and is particularly popular along the California coast. It’s light but filling at the same time (and pairs well with sourdough!).
► Marionberries
Summer in the Northwest means marionberries, an American food that might not be familiar to you. A type of blackberry, marionberries are native to Oregon and are among the sweetest and juiciest blackberries you will find. Commonly served in pies, jams, milkshakes, or just on their own as a snack, you won’t want to miss trying them if you visit during marionberry season.
Famous American food in Hawaii
Hawaii has an incredible diverse culture, and along with it they serve meals that have become true American food classics.
► Kalua Pig
A trip to Hawaii often means enjoying a luau, and with that will come a huge meal with a kalua delicacy. Kalua means to cook in an underground oven, and food prepared in this way is often slow-cooked for 6-8 hours in a hand-dug oven warmed by rocks that have been heated by flames. Kalua pig is the most common meal served in this style.
► Pineapple
Pineapples aren’t native to Hawaii, but they are practically synonymous with the island state these days. Introduced in the 1900s, pineapples grow well there, and enjoying fresh pineapple is almost a requirement when you visit.
Road Unraveled Tip:
Visit the Dole Plantation to both learn about the history of pineapples (and the Dole family) and try Dole Whip, a fantastic pineapple soft serve dessert.
More Information: DolePlantation.com
► Ahi Poke
For fish lovers, poke is a great choice. Combining cubes of raw fish with soy sauce, sesame oil, and seasonings, it’s a great, light island meal. While poke can be found throughout the USA, it is most authentically served in Hawaii.
► Shave Ice
Hawaii’s favorite dessert is a truly unique find. Made from incredibly thinly shaved ice, shave ice—that’s right, there’s no ‘d’ at the end of shave—has the consistency of soft, freshly fallen snow. With the addition of flavored syrup, it becomes a sugary concoction that makes for the perfect after dinner treat.
Road Unraveled Tip:
Ululani’s Shave Ice was exactly what we were looking for during our visit to Hawaii- and with about 50 flavors to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding something you will enjoy!
More Information: UlulanisHawaiianShaveIce.com
► Laulau
A native Hawaiian dish, laulau is meat or fish that is wrapped in luau or taro leaves before being cooked in an underground oven. These days, laulau can be steamed above ground on a stove with the same results, but it remains a popular lunch and is worth a try if you’re looking for a different type of American food.
Famous American food in the South
The South serves some of the most recognized American food around—there’s a reason why it’s famous!
► Barbeque
You’ll find BBQ all over the USA, but our favorite comes from the South. Two popular styles are Carolina and Memphis. Carolina BBQ has more of a vinegar base, which creates a thin but flavorful sauce to coat pulled pork or chicken. Memphis BBQ often means ribs (served wet—coated with a sauce—or dry—cooked with just a spice rub), although BBQ sandwiches with chopped pork are also a delicious way to try Memphis barbeque. No matter which style you choose (and we recommend trying them both!), BBQ is without question an iconic American food.
► Fried Green Tomatoes
One of our favorite side dishes in the United States is fried green tomatoes. It’s a straightforward dish; green tomatoes are sliced, coated with a cornmeal batter, and lightly fried. We especially love them with pimento cheese, and they are also tasty in sandwiches (try substituting fried green tomatoes in a BLT- it’s delicious!).
► Chicken and Waffles
A southern soul food breakfast will often introduce you to chicken and waffles, a culinary delight that pairs fried chicken with a crisp waffle, all served with butter and maple syrup. The combination may not sound appealing, but properly cooked the flavor profiles compliment each other so well you might be tempted to replace bacon or sausage as a typical waffle side dish!
► Creole
Visiting Louisiana will introduce you to Creole cooking, where gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans and dirty rice will show you a different side to American food. Creole food isn’t typically that spicy (unlike it’s Cajun counterpart), but it is hearty and rich and very much engrained in Southern cuisine.
Road Unraveled Tip:
Planning a trip to New Orleans? Try Muriel’s Jackson Square for contemporary creole cuisine in the Big Easy.
More Information: Muriels.com
► Cuban Sandwich
A trip to Florida—especially Miami—will likely ensure you cross paths with the Cuban sandwich. A tasty combination of ham, pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, the origins of the sandwich are disputed: people argue over whether it was invented in Miami, Tampa, or Havana. That question may never be answered, but it is permanently rooted in American food history.
► Key Lime Pie
Key lime pie is without question an American dessert. Made from tiny, Florida-grown key limes, the pie filling sits on top of a pie crust and underneath a layer of sweet meringue. You’ll often find it on dessert menus in the South.
Famous American food in the Midwest
You won’t want to miss these tasty meals on a journey through the USA’s Midwest!
► Deep Dish Pizza
► Cheese
If you like cheese, make sure Wisconsin is on your foodie bucket list. Wisconsin is known for it’s cheese production, and you’ll find no shortage of dairies and markets where you can sample them.
► Cincinnati Chili
The Midwest loves Cincinnati chili, which is ground beef simmered in Mediterranean-influenced spices as well as cinnamon, which gives it a sweeter taste than most chili fans are used to experiencing. While it can be enjoyed alone, it’s often paired with pasta or on top of a hot dog. Order it using the “way” system, which calls out ingredients you can include using a specific series—two-way gives you pasta with chili, where five-way also includes cheese, onions, and beans.
► Chicago Hot Dogs
Like a hot dog with ketchup? Don’t mention that in Chicago. Instead, order a Chicago dog with all of the toppings: yellow mustard, onions, pickle relish, a pickle spear, tomatoes, peppers, and celery salt piled high on a hot dog served in a poppy seed bun. It sounds like a lot—and it is—but the flavors combine to create a delicious, iconic meal.
► Juicy Lucy
While the specific creator of the Juicy Lucy is disputed, its place as an American food classic is not. The Juicy Lucy takes a hamburger and fills the burger patty with cheese, which creates a kind of molten cheese core that also keeps the patty, well, juicy. Also disputed is the proper spelling of this burger: the 5-8 Club in Minneapolis spells it traditionally, while Matt’s Bar omits the “I,” instead calling it a Jucy Lucy. No matter where you go—or how you spell it—it’s definitely tasty!
More Information: MattsBar.com | 5-8club.com
► Pierogies
Road Unraveled Tip:
Visit Church Brew Works in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to try both traditional pierogies as well as the daily selection of “untraditional” pierogies, which have less conventional fillings.
More Information: ChurchBrew.com
► Buckeyes
An Ohio favorite, buckeyes are basically peanut butter fudge dipped in a rich chocolate coating. They are especially loved in Ohio because they resemble buckeye nuts (the state tree of Ohio), but regionally they are an exceptionally popular treat.
Final thoughts…
There’s no way to create a definitive, complete list of American foods without leaving off a few favorites. Because we focused our list on regions, some universally iconic dishes like apple pie, corn on the cob, biscuits and gravy, the club sandwich, and eggs benedict didn’t make this list at all since they aren’t commonly consumed in a single region. They receive an honorable mention, of course. We also stayed away from including drinks since we’re planning to write about that in a separate post down the line.
We would love to hear which foods on our list are among your favorites—and which foods you can’t believe we left off. Connect with us on social media and let us know your thoughts! No matter what, we hope this list has left your mouth watering and inspired you to try some new American food on your journeys through the United States!
Related Posts
If you love great food, here are a few more articles about some of the best meals we have had around the world!
