Traveling throughout the United States offers an incredible opportunity to experience different cultures, including their varied cuisines. Every region boasts its own iconic foods that tell stories of culture, heritage, and local ingredients. This guide is designed to lead you through a delightful exploration of must-try dishes, highlighting the culinary gems that reflect the diversity and creativity of American cuisine, which, as you'll learn, is also often influenced by other countries.
Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, prepare to indulge your taste buds and uncover the extraordinary foods that make each state a delicious destination.
*Note: while there's considerable overlap in the cuisines and dishes across America, we will highlight the commonalities and the unique, state-specific specialties that make each state distinctive.
Alabama
One of the foods Alabama is most known for is its barbecue, specifically, White BBQ sauce. This type of sauce uses mayo, vinegar, and spices. While typical BBQ sauce uses tomato as its base, the base of white BBQ sauce is mayo. The state dessert is Lane Cake, a layered white sponge cake with a frosting of coconut, raisins, pecans, and bourbon. I don't know about you, but I love the taste of bourbon-infused desserts. Lane Cake was even mentioned in the novel To Kill A Mockingbird.
Alaska
Unsurprisingly, seafood is huge in Alaska. Halibut, salmon, and crab are particularly big there. In addition to fresh as-heck seafood, Alaska also has a game-heavy cuisine. Reindeer sausage is an Alaskan staple and is said to be great for any meal of the day. Sorry, Rudolph!
Arizona
One of the biggest local dishes in Arizona is frybread. This Navajo tradition is said to have originated in 1864 when the Navajo people were sadly forced to move from Arizona to New Mexico and take the 300-mile "Long Walk." They mixed flour, salt, water, and baking powder to make their dough, which they then fried in lard. Chimichangas are another popular dish in Arizona. Legend has it that it was created in Tucson. This deep-fried burrito piled with sour cream and guac is said to have been created by Monica Flin in the early 1920s when a burrito was accidentally dropped into the deep fryer. In the words of Bob Ross, "We don't make mistakes; we have happy accidents."
Arkansas
One odd-sounding dish this state is known for is Arkansas Possum Pie. Despite its name, no possums were harmed while making this dish. Arkansas Possum Pie is actually a dessert made with layered chocolate, cream cheese, and a pecan shortbread crust. That sounds delicious! Staying on the sweet train, Southern Biscuits with Chocolate Gravy is another popular treat in Arkansas that's often served for breakfast or dessert.
California
A very San Francisco fish is Cioppino, a seafood stew. While the type of seafood can vary (more on that later), the dish always uses a tomato-based broth, spicy peppers, garlic, and wine. The dish originated by fishermen in the 1800s. If one did not luck out with any fish, he would ask the others if they could "chip in" with some of their catch. Whatever he gathered would often be used to make this dish. And if you're in San Diego, you gotta try a California burrito featuring carne, cheese, sour cream, guac, salsa, and fries.
Colorado
One of the dishes most commonly associated with Colorado is Rocky Mountain Oysters. Now, these aren't like the oysters you find in the sea. Instead, they're actually bull testicles, which are most often deep-fried. Although I live in Denver, I haven't tried this dish yet, but it's a bucket-list item for sure. I know, I know, it sounds bizarre. But, I like to consider myself a pretty adventurous eater. As someone who enjoys fried calamari and alligator, I think it could be pretty good! Plus, it supposedly just tastes like chicken anyway! Moving along, let's talk about pizza. Although pizza enthusiasts may believe the options out there to be lackluster (something about the bread and the elevation), Mountain Pie or Colorado Pizza is pretty special. The thick braided crust is made with honey rather than sugar and helps keep all of the toppings in check. You can then dunk or drizzle with more honey. Beau Jo's in Idaho Springs is credited with inventing it. Naturally, you shouldn't miss the opportunity to enjoy a Coors while you're here—especially a Coors Banquet! (Try a Coors Edge if you're on the non-alcoholic train).
Read more: Check out this article and this article for Denver food to add to your bucket-list.
Connecticut
If you're in Connecticut, you must try White Clam Pizza, specifically from Frank Pepe Pizzeria. This pizza features Fresh Clam, Garlic, Oregano, Grated Pecorino Romano, Olive Oil, and a charred and chewy crust that Frank Pepe's is known for. Some, however, prefer the Fresh Clam pizza from Zuppardi’s Apizza. Of course, you'll also need a lobster roll in Connecticut. Did you know the state invented this delicious dish? Their style of lobster roll features lobster chunks and butter in a French roll. Depending on where you get it, it may or may not include mayo, celery, and other additions, but for it to be considered Connecticut style, the lobster must be served hot.
Delaware
As seafood is a popular cuisine in Delaware, one of the most notable dishes is steamed crabs. Whether you steam and season them yourself or visit one of the many crab shacks in the state, you will surely enjoy this classic dish. Slippery dumplings are another Delaware classic. These dumplings are flat and noodle-like and often paired with chicken.
Florida
When in Florida, Key Lime Pie is a must! This tart, sweet, and refreshing treat is perfect for a sunny Florida day. The Cuban sandwich is also very prominent in The Sunshine State. Although it originated in Havana, Cuba, the modern-day version has been influenced by Tampa and Miami. A Cuban uses a type of bread called pan Cubano, made with lard, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. A Cuban includes ham, pork, Swiss cheese, and mustard.
Georgia
Obviously, The Peach State is known for peaches, so you gotta enjoy some of the delicious juicy fruit while you're there. Bite into one, or enjoy peaches in pies, jams, ice cream, cobbler, and more. Georgia also has some of the best fried chicken, with juicy meat and a crispy, well-seasoned exterior. Most of America's pecans come from Georgia, specifically, about one-third of the country's pecans. So, a trip to Georgia is the perfect time for treats like pecan pie and pecan pralines.
Hawaii
One of the most famous dishes in Hawaii is poke, a dish made with raw, marinated fish (usually tuna) cut into chunks and often served over rice or salad greens. It's light, fresh, and oh-so delicious! Another must-try in Hawaii is spam musubi. The salty canned meat is glazed with a sweet soy sauce and wrapped in rice and nori, making a great portable snack. It's very popular to pick these up at the 7-Eleven (They have better options than we do on the mainland).
Idaho
While potatoes may be the first thing that comes to mind when considering Idaho cuisine, there is much more to the state's food culture. The Finger Steak, a steak cut into strips, battered, and deep-fried, is one delicious dish you don't want to miss! This Idaho specialty originated in Boise. Huckleberries (the state fruit) are also a popular ingredient in Idaho cuisine (along with a lot of the West). Try them in syrups, ice cream, or by themselves!
Fun fact: Huckleberries can take 10+ years to fully mature!
Illinois
When you're in Illinois, have yourself a horseshoe sandwich. This open-faced sandwich features two thick slices of Texas toast, your choice of meat, french fries, and cheese sauce. Of course, you also need to enjoy a Chicago-style hot dog. A classic Chicago-style dog should use an all-beef frank, such as Vienna beef, a poppyseed bun, yellow mustard, bright green sweet pickle relish, chopped white onion, tomato slices, a dill pickle spear, pickled sport peppers, and celery salt.
Indiana
In Indiana, you can enjoy Indiana Sugar Cream Pie. Also known as Hoosier Pie, this sweet treat is custardy and sweet with sweet cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg flavors. You should also try a Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, which features a pork tenderloin pounded flat and wide, breaded, and pan-fried.
Iowa
One particularly interesting food in Iowa that combines sweet and savory flavors is cinnamon rolls and chili. The most common story is that this dish originated in school lunchrooms in the 1960s. As a big fan of sweet/savory combos, I definitely find this enticing. Although it's said to be a dish from various states, it seems to be particularly popular in the Midwest. Some people say you need to eat them separately or switch between the two rather than combining them, but why not try both? Another popular dish in Iowa is ham balls. These meatballs use ham (duh!), ground beef, and graham cracker crumbs. The balls are baked in a tomato and brown sugar glaze.
Kansas
For a sweet treat in Kansas, go for Brown Bread Frozen Custard from G’s Frozen Custard and Yogurt. This dessert was a popular flavor in the 1920s and was sold by the Baughman Ice Cream Company from a horse-drawn ice cream cart. How fun! It features brown sugar, vanilla, and pieces of brown bread throughout. Kansas also has some pretty great barbecue, so be sure to indulge in some ribs if you're there!
Kentucky
Did you know 95% of the world's bourbon comes from Kentucky? So, why not enjoy some while you're there? Whether you go for a Mint Julep (traditionally served at the Kentucky Derby) or Bourbon Balls, you can't go wrong with this delicious spirit. A Mint Julep features Kentucky Bourbon, simple syrup, and fresh mint. The drink is served chilled, making it perfect for a hot day. The OG recipe for Bourbon Balls remains secret, but the candies are still made in different versions that keep the spirit of the original. They include bourbon, chocolate, and nuts, among other ingredients, and are chilled rather than baked. The delightful boozy treat was created by Ruth Hanly Booe in 1938.
Louisiana
In Louisiana, you must have some Gumbo, a hearty and flavorful stew made with various ingredients such as chicken, sausage, veggies, and seafood in a flavorful stock served over rice. It's similar to another popular Louisiana dish, Jambalaya, but don't get them mixed up! While gumbo is primarily a thick stew, jambalaya emphasizes rice more. And don't forget to indulge in some beignets—deep-fried pastries covered in powdered sugar. Get yours at the famous Café du Monde in New Orleans.
Maine
Like Connecticut, Maine is known for lobster rolls. Maine lobster rolls are served with cold lobster rather than hot, typically using a hot dog bun. Purists prefer to keep things simple with only the lobster, but it's also quite common to see it served in a lobster salad-type style, including things like mayo and celery, similar to a chicken salad. (I say, if I wanted a chicken salad, I'd just order a chicken salad.) Although polarizing, it's worth trying Moxie to form your own opinion. This soda is said to have an acquired taste. For dessert, go for a whoopie pie, the official state treat. This treat comprises cake layers that sandwich around a sweet, fluffy filling.
Maryland
Maryland Rockfish and Mango Ceviche is a deliciously fresh and healthy dish that is worth ordering when you're in Maryland. Of course, you can't visit Maryland without enjoying some crab, either. Try a jumbo lump crab cake or steamed blue crab for a delicious taste of Maryland seafood.
Massachusetts
Clam Chowder is a must-eat dish if you're in New England. This creamy soup often includes potatoes and clams, among various other ingredients. It's usually paired with oyster crackers, which adds a nice crunch. Boston Cream Pie is a must if you're looking for something sweet. This delicious dessert features sponge cake, custard filling, and chocolate glaze.
Michigan
You can't go to Michigan without enjoying some Detroit-style pizza. This indulgent pizza is square-shaped, has crunchy cheesy corner pieces, and was influenced by Sicilian-style pizza. A hot fudge cream puff from Sanders Candy is the perfect remedy for your sweet tooth. They take an airy pastry shell, pair it with vanilla ice cream, and pour fudge on top. Are you drooling, too?
Minnesota
Despite the name, wild rice isn't rice but a grass seed with roots and importance in Indigenous culture. Try it in wild rice soup, especially from a Lunds & Byerlys grocery store. A hotdish is another Minnesota staple. This casserole-like meal often includes beef or chicken, vegetables, and canned cream of mushroom soup. It's then topped off with tater tots for the perfect finishing touch.
Mississippi
You'll definitely want to enjoy some biscuits in the Biscuit Capital of the world: Natchez, Mississippi. Chef Regina Charboneau, a seventh-generation native daughter, helped her hometown earn this honor in 2008 and established a popular biscuit festival. Her perfected biscuits are extra buttery and flaky. And if you've ever enjoyed fried pickles (a favorite app of mine), you have The Hollywood Café in Mississippi to thank for that, as they claim the creation. The story goes that a cook made them for a customer when they ran low on supplies. What a brilliant and delicious solution! For something sweet, try the Mississippi Mud Pie, a chocolatey pie with a crumbly crust.
Missouri
Toasted ravioli originates from St. Louis and is super tasty. Crunchy breaded ravioli you can eat with your hands? Yes, please! Moving along to St. Louis-style pizza, a thin-crust pizza with sweet tomato sauce and Provel cheese. Provel cheese, invented in St. Louis, is a unique processed cheese that doesn't stretch like mozzarella. For dessert, try gooey butter cake, a layered cake with a cake layer and a gooey top layer, typically made with cream cheese. It's finished off with powdered sugar.
Montana
Like Idaho and much of the West, Montana is also a huge place to go for all types of foods incorporating huckleberry. Game, like bison and elk, is also a must-have while in the beautiful state.
Check this out: I highly recommend the restaurant Feast Bozeman. The last time I was there, we had bison carpaccio as an appetizer and a huckleberry glazed steak as our main meal, one of their specials.
Nebraska
What if you took a delicious food, grilled cheese, and dunked it in the deep fryer? That's exactly what you'll get if you order a Cheese Frenchee. It's also mini! How fun! They're often served with ketchup, ranch, and tomato soup. Verdigre, Nebraska, is recognized as the world's Kolache Capital, thanks to many Czech immigrants. This sweet pastry is typically filled with fruit. Verdigre even hosts Kolache days. Check out Verdigre Bakery for your kolache fix.
Nevada
Lamb lovers should enjoy some lamb in Nevada, which became popular due to the Basque sheepherders' arrival in the state. Sticking with Basque cuisine, chorizo sandwiches are also a must-try. These sandwiches feature chopped pork rather than ground pork, which is one of the differentiating factors compared to other types of chorizo. This pork is air-dried and includes some yummy spices with a kick.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire is another state known for its seafood cuisine, especially lobsters, clams, and scallops. The iconic Canadian dish poutine is also quite popular. Poutine features french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. Apples are incredibly abundant in New Hampshire, and many people enjoy things like apple cider, apple wine, and apple pies. McIntosh, Cortland, and Honeycrisp are especially common apple types in New Hampshire.
New Jersey
You can't go to New Jersey without enjoying a Pork Roll (also called Taylor Ham), a dish that dates back to 1856. This sandwich includes some processed pork, usually sliced and grilled or pan-fried, seasoning, egg (fried or scrambled), and cheese. Jersey is also known for the tomato pie, a pizza with thin dough, garlic, mozzarella, and tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, which go on top. We just discussed poutine, and New Jersey has a similar dish called Disco Fries. These fries are topped with melty mozzarella and gravy.
New Mexico
One of the most iconic foods to try in New Mexico is green chile, which can be used in various ways, such as green chile stew, burgers, and even apple pie. Red chile is also popular. Blue corn is also a staple in the area. It contains a higher protein level and is sweeter than other types of corn. It can be used in tortillas, pancakes, and more.
New York
One of the most iconic New York foods is bagels and lox. It's said the Jewish Polish immigrants brought the bagel to America. So, to all the bagel-obsessed people I know, you know who to thank. The bagel was eventually paired with salmon (lox), cream cheese, red onion, tomato, and capers. The Garbage Plate is another popular NY dish (and no, this isn't about the city streets). This unpleasant-sounding dish originates from Rochester and is beloved by many. It includes various ingredients such as burger patties, fries, macaroni salad, and hot sauce. And you can't forget about New York-style pizza, a delicious evolution of traditional Neapolitan pizza known for its coal-fired preparation.
North Carolina
North Carolina is another state where barbecue is quite popular. There are actually various styles within the state. Lexington-style barbecue uses a tangy sauce with vinegar, salt, pepper, and a touch of ketchup or tomato paste. The sauce is typically enjoyed as a dip alongside pork shoulder. Eastern-style whole hog barbecue is when a whole hog is cooked over wood with vinegar and pepper sauce.
North Dakota
You've got to have Juneberries in North Dakota! These berries are native to the region and rare to find elsewhere in the U.S. For something sweet and salty, snack on some chippers. These chocolate-covered potato chips are a North Dakota classic!
Ohio
Try a Polish Boy in Ohio, a sandwich with kielbasa, coleslaw, fries, and barbecue sauce on a hot dog bun. A popular fruit in Ohio is the Pawpaw, which tastes like a combination of mangoes, bananas, and citrus. It's also the largest fruit native to America. There's even an Annual Ohio Pawpaw Festival in Athens, OH.
Oklahoma
Fried onion burgers are a classic Oklahoma meal created in El Reno during the Depression. The owners of Hamburger Inn skillfully crafted this delicious burger by pressing a modest five-cent meat patty into a bed of shredded onions atop a sizzling griddle. They enhanced the burger's appearance with the back of a heavy-duty spatula to make it seem more substantial. Adding caramelized onions with crispy, charred edges transformed the burger into a delectable delight. On the sweet side, dig into a fried pie from Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies.
Oregon
Savor fresh marionberries in Oregon, as they are rarely shipped outside the region to preserve their freshness. Marionberries are a hybrid of two blackberry types invented at Oregon State University. A slice of marionberry pie is the perfect way to eat this special fruit. Oregon is also a place to grab some seafood. Try Dungeness Crab, which is highly prominent from December to early spring. Newport, Oregon, is even known as The Dungeness Crab capital of the world. For a special experience, head to Kelly's Brighton Marina in Rockaway Beach, where they'll help you catch and cook your own.
Pennsylvania
Photo by Karolina Kaboompics on Pexels
Although I am from Pittsburgh, we can't talk about iconic PA foods without mentioning the Philly Cheesesteak. Traditionally, a Philly has Cheese Wiz and is served on an amoroso roll, but there are some variations depending on where you go. As a Pittsburgher, I'm a big fan of Pierogies (Polish dumplings stuffed with mashed potatoes). I also grew up eating wedding soup, an Italian soup full of delicious stuff like chicken, acini de pepe, and meatballs. As it turns out, the soup is pretty famous in Pittsburgh!
Rhode Island
Clams are a massive part of the cuisine in Rhode Island, from Clam Cakes to Stuffies to Rhode Island Clam Chowder! Clam cakes are fried dough fritters with crispy outsides and soft, clam-filled insides. They're often served with Rhode Island Clam Chowder for dunking. "What is Rhode Island Clam Chowder?" you ask. This version of clam chowder features a clear broth made from quahog clam juice. It's filled with potatoes, celery, onions, and chopped quahog clams. Stuffies are giant quahog clams baked and served on half of the shell. They're stuffed with bread, spices, onions, and even bacon or chorizo.
South Carolina
You've got to have the official state snack, boiled peanuts when you're in South Carolina. The best time of year to enjoy this tasty snack is summer and early fall. Peanuts are cooked in very salty water (and often, other spices) for hours to create a soft bean-like salty treat. Coloring peanuts was most likely introduced to the states by African slaves. And, once again, we have a state with a vast barbecue culture. South Carolina actually claims to be the OG American BBQ, so it's a must-eat cuisine. The state even has four official barbecue sauces: mustard (unique to SC), vinegar and pepper, and light and heavy tomatoes.
South Dakota
Both chokecheries and rhubarb are popular plants to eat in South Dakota. Chokecherries have been a tradition among Native American tribes, a community that has dramatically influenced South Dakota's food. They are tart but sweeten up when they're cooked and used in things like jam, wine, and wojapi. Wojapi, a Lakota Sioux recipe, is a dipping sauce often made from chokecherries, cornstarch, and a sweetener. Another common dish, mainly in southeast South Dakota, is chislic. Similar to shish kebab (but don't get it twisted; they are NOT the same thing), German/Russian immigrants likely brought these meat skewers to the state. The dish features no vegetables and consists of half-inch cubes of meat, commonly lamb, venison, or beef, that are either deep-fried or grilled.
Tennessee
A lack of sauce sets apart Tennessee's ribs and, instead, a focus on dry rub. You'll also want to sink your teeth into some Nashville Hot Chicken. This stuff can be pretty spicy, so exercise caution if you're sensitive to spice. Wash all that good stuff down with some Tennessee whiskey, a special type of bourbon filtered through charcoal to create a smoother taste.
Texas
One of my fav brunch items, chicken fried steak, is a Texas staple. Who can resist a big slab of steak fried up in batter for a crispy exterior reminiscent of fried chicken? Certainly not me. It's then topped with a creamy gravy. And we can't talk about Texas food without mentioning BBQ (again, with the BBQ!). Smoked brisket, in particular, is very popular. We're rounding it out with Texas toast, a crispy on the outside, soft in the middle buttery slice of heaven.
Utah
If you're a raspberry fan, you must try the delightful Bear Lake Raspberries. These sweet and juicy berries are delicious on their own or in a raspberry shake. (Check out shakes from LaBeaus, Hometown Drive Inn, and Zipz). An interestingly named dish that's popular in the state is funeral potatoes. This dish, often served at funerals and other gatherings, consists of hash browns, cheese, sour cream, and a crunchy topping. Um, that sounds to die for. When it comes to dipping, embrace Utah culture by ordering some fried sauce. This sauce features a variety of ingredients, including ketchup, lemon juice, mayo, and some other secret stuff. Check out Arctic Circle for burgers and fries with fry sauce. You can even buy your own bottle!
Vermont
If you didn't know, Vermont produces the most maple syrup in the United States, thanks to a cool and moist climate that is perfect for Maple trees. You will see maple syrup in various dishes, from maple baked beans to sugar on snow. Sugar on snow is a fun dish made by pouring hot maple syrup over snow, turning it into a taffy-like texture. It's often served with a pickle and a donut. Cheese, particularly cheddar, is also quite special in Vermont. Beyond eating it with crackers or in a grilled cheese, it's also paired with apple pie. It sounds odd, but we love a sweet and savory combo! It's such a popular tradition that some people even say, "Apple pie without the cheese is like a kiss without the squeeze." (Note to self: order this next time you're in Vermont).
Virginia
Virginia peanuts are the largest peanuts in the country! Enjoy them as a crunchy snack, and try peanut pie and peanut soup. Go nuts! Several states claim to have invented our next one: Brunswick stew. This stew is meat and veggie-based and is perfect for those chilly fall and winter days. Past recipes used meat such as rabbits and squirrels, but it's typically chicken or pork today. You can also enjoy some tasty seafood, such as mountain trout, oysters, and soft-shell crab. Shell crabs are in season during the summer when most blue crabs molt.
Washington
We've got another seafood-heavy state! Dig into salmon, Dungeness crab, oysters, clams (particularly geoduck), and more. Have it all! For fruit, try some Rainier cherries. Rainier cherries, named after Mount Rainier, are yellow-red cherries created in 1952 that mix the Bing and the Van cherries.
West Virginia
"West Virginia, mountain mama." It's time to talk about the state that's "almost heaven." that's how the song goes. Ramps are extremely popular food items in West Virginia. This vegetable is said to taste similar to both onions and garlic. Yum! For breakfast, enjoy a plate of hearty buckwheat pancakes. If you're lucky, you can catch the annual Preston County Buckwheat Festival every September.
Wisconsin
We briefly mentioned cheese curds earlier when discussing poutine, and it's time to return them. The curds here are typically fried up because why wouldn't you fry cheese? Cheddar is the most popular type of cheese curd, but it can be found in various options. Staying on the cheese train, the Limburger sandwich is an interesting Wisconsin dish. This sandwich features Limburger (obviously), a stinky cheese, rye bread, onion, salt and pepper, and mustard.
Wyoming
We've made it to our final state! Like Colorado, Rocky Mountain oysters are a unique menu item in this western state. Chili is another big Wyoming dish, especially with game like bison or elk. When I was last in Jackson, WY, I enjoyed a bowl of the three-time Jackson Hole chili cook-off-winning Wyoming Bison & Beef Chili from Snake River Brewing. It was cozy and delicious.
Embark on a Gastronomic Adventure Across America
America offers an incredible variety of dishes to explore! Though many states feature overlapping dishes and cuisines, this commonality doesn't make them any less special. Western states love huckleberries and game, while the Midwest favors casseroles and fried foods. And some cuisines seem to be randomly popular in dispersed sections of the country. But no matter where you are in America, there will always be something fun and tasty to try! So, go out there and explore the diverse flavors that this country has to offer.
Of course, every state has a lot to offer, so this only scratches the surface (across nearly 5,000 words, might I add).
