When you think of American cuisine, food like hamburgers and hot dogs are likely to come to mind. Yes, they’re widely consumed in the country, but there’s a whole host of classic American dishes that you can work your way through. You’re sure to find something to tickle your taste buds.
From the Philly cheesesteak to the humble hamburger, the whole of the US is rich in tantalizing dishes. There are too many to list every single one, but we’ve outlined some of the top eats that you definitely should not miss!
Buffalo Wings
One of the best American foods for a casual bite to eat, buffalo wings have been a popular bar snack since they were first served in New York in the 1960s. Fried chicken wings in a hot sauce, they’re great for eating alone or with friends.
Reuben Sandwich
The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut and Swiss has become iconic and is a mainstay of American delis. Be sure to try it with a homemade Russian dressing too, and use rye or pumpernickel if you can, as it makes the sandwich one of the top foods in America.
Hot Dogs
Perhaps the quintessential American food, the simple frankfurter in a bun has fed Americans at parties and baseball games for generations. Nathan’s Famous’ hotdogs aren’t to be missed, as founder Nathan Handwerker started serving hotdogs over 100 years ago.
Apple Pie
Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, the apple pie is an iconic dessert and truly one of the best foods to try in America. It was first introduced to the US by immigrants from Europe, but now, as the saying goes, it’s as American as apple pie!
Philadelphia Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak is another iconic American sandwich to eat here, made with greasy ‘frizzled’ beef, onions and cheese all together in a long bun. Be careful not to ruin your clothes while eating it, and it’ll be a sandwich you won’t forget.
Barbecue Ribs
No matter where you go in America, you’ll come across a barbecue sooner or later. Bringing communities and neighborhoods together, one of the best parts of a barbecue is the ribs. They can differ from area to area, but no matter where you try them you’re sure to enjoy.
Biscuits and Gravy
Without a doubt, this is one of the most popular foods of the South. It has its origins as a cheap, filling breakfast back in the Revolutionary War, and has evolved into large buttery biscuits in a meaty gravy with sausage chunks, although you can adapt the meal to suit any taste.
Hamburger
Perhaps just as popular as the hot dog, hamburgers, and cheeseburgers are a staple of American cuisine. Whether you’re going to McDonald’s or a gourmet restaurant, you’re sure to find a hamburger to suit you. Hamburgers were born in Connecticut in 1900, and in the time since have become one of the best American foods.
Other Classic American Dishes
These are just a few classic American dishes for you to try. Of course, the list doesn’t end here, and there’s plenty more great meals and snacks to check out. For more ideas on all things food, check out the rest of our posts!