Who doesn’t know the deliciousness of a juicy burger, crispy fries, or a pizza slice overflowing with cheese?
When it comes to American cuisine, our minds immediately jump to these iconic dishes that have conquered the taste buds of millions worldwide. For tourists visiting the United States, sampling local food isn’t just about filling their stomachs, it’s an essential part of the cultural experience that shouldn’t be missed.
From the busy streets of Manhattan to the sunny beaches of California, American cuisine offers a diversity of flavors that reflects its immigration history and cultural variety. Let’s explore the American foods most sought after by tourists and what makes them so special.
1. Classic American Burger
The hamburger is the most recognized symbol of American cuisine worldwide. More than just a round bun with meat, an authentic American burger delivers the perfect combination of a juicy grilled beef patty, fresh vegetables, melted cheese, and a secret sauce that makes every bite special.
From simple burgers to gourmet burgers with luxurious toppings, burger variations in America are incredibly diverse and can be found in every fast food chain like Five Guys and Shake Shack and high-end restaurants.
2. Hot Dog
This street food has become part of the American identity, especially in major cities like New York and Chicago. A hot dog consists of a long sausage placed in a soft bun, then topped with various condiments, such as mustard, ketchup, onions, and relish.
Each city has its own signature hot dog style New York-style with sauerkraut, or Chicago-style loaded with vegetables and no ketchup. Tourists can find hot dogs at street food carts for affordable prices or at gourmet hot dog restaurants.
Read also: 7 New York City Places to Visit
3. Grilled Chicken Salad
For tourists seeking healthier options, grilled chicken salad is a perfect favorite. This dish consists of seasoned grilled chicken breast served over a variety of fresh vegetables like lettuce, cherry tomatoes, carrots, and cucumber, accompanied by various dressing choices from balsamic vinaigrette to honey mustard. Many casual restaurants and cafes in America offer satisfying yet healthy salad variations, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
4. Acai Bowl
This healthy food trend from the California coast has become a favorite among health-conscious tourists. An acai bowl is a smoothie bowl made from antioxidant-rich acai berries, blended with other fruits and served in a bowl with toppings of granola, fresh fruit, honey, and sometimes peanut butter or coconut flakes. Its refreshing taste, natural sweetness, and creamy texture make the acai bowl perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack. Tourists can find acai bowls at juice bars, health cafes, or even some coffee shops in cities like Los Angeles, Miami, and New York.
5. Pizza (New York Style)
Although pizza originated in Italy, New York-style pizza has become an American culinary icon and is perhaps the most famous food sought by tourists. With its characteristic thin but foldable crust, rich tomato sauce, and abundant mozzarella cheese, a slice of New York pizza is a must-have experience for every tourist. What makes it special is the concept of “dollar slice” or buying by the slice, allowing tourists to enjoy authentic pizza at economical prices while walking through city streets. Iconic pizzerias like Joe’s Pizza, Prince Street Pizza, and Lombardi’s are always crowded with tourists wanting to taste a legendary slice of New York.
Why Are They Popular?
American food is so popular among tourists for two main reasons: generous portions and diversity of flavors. The “value for money” concept is very evident with large portion sizes. One serving is often enough for two people or can be taken home as leftovers. Additionally, as a nation of immigrants, America presents fusion food and culinary innovation reflecting influences from various world cultures, making the dining experience always interesting and never boring. Moreover, many tourists want to experience firsthand the food they often see in Hollywood movies or on social media, eating at a classic diner or trying a burger from a famous food truck is part of the pop culture experience they seek.
Read more: 6 Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in the U.S.
Food is a window to understanding a country’s culture, and American cuisine offers a rich and diverse experience. From iconic fast food to modern healthy options, every dish tells a story about America’s diversity and creativity.
Want to get to know American culture more deeply? @america presents various exciting events and programs that introduce you to various aspects of American life—from cuisine, music, films, to education and technology. Join our community and participate in workshops, film screenings, cultural discussions, and various other fun activities at the American Culture Center Jakarta.
