America: The Land of Food Delights
Exploring the 48 Contiguous United States My Top 10 Favorite Foods Revealed - And 3 That Left a Lasting (and Not So Tasty) Impression!
After traveling across the 48 contiguous United States, I ranked my top 10 favorite foods, with 3 disappointments.
Chris Tollerfield is a British tourist who ranked his top 10 favorite American foods after visiting 48 US states.
Oh, my fellow fashionista foodies, have I got a treat for you! Get ready to salivate over the most delectable dishes in all the land of the free and the home of the brave. Let me take you on a mouth-watering journey through America’s culinary wonders, as ranked by the one and only British foodie extraordinaire, Chris Tollerfield.
Now, before we dive into this feast for the senses, let me tell you a little about our revered gourmet guide. Chris Tollerfield, hailing from the UK, embarked on a grand adventure across 48 states in the good ol’ US of A. Armed with an insatiable appetite and an open mind, Chris sampled the finest delicacies each state had to offer. He has ranked his top 10 favorites, filled with flavors that will transport you to foodie heaven.
But be warned, my fashionable foodies, not all dishes earned the coveted spot on Chris’s list. Oh no, there were a few that made his taste buds scream in horror. But fear not, for we shall focus on the delightful dishes that left him craving more.
Let’s dig in, shall we?
10. Shrimp Fajitas: A Fiesta in Your Mouth
Shrimp fajitas at Güero’s Taco Bar.
Get ready for a fiesta of flavors as we savor the scrumptious shrimp fajitas from Güero’s Taco Bar in Austin, TX. Picture this: succulent shrimp chargrilled to perfection, adorned with fresh salsa and accompanied by perfectly cooked rice. It’s like a Mexican party in your mouth! Chris, being a lover of Mexican cuisine, couldn’t get enough of this authentic dish. And let’s face it, our friends across the pond simply can’t replicate this Mexican magic.
9. Cheesesteak: Philly’s Meaty Masterpiece
Cheesesteak from Pat’s King of Steaks, Philadelphia.
Ah, the age-old debate of Pat’s vs. Geno’s. Our fearless foodie, Chris, ventured to the heart of Philadelphia to settle this cheese-filled feud. After trying both establishments, he proudly declared Pat’s as the winner. The cheese sauce, the peppers, the mushrooms – it was a symphony of flavors that had his taste buds doing a happy dance. And while locals argued over the best cheesesteak joint, Chris found solace in the fact that it’s just like fish and chips back in the UK – everyone has their favorite spot. Oh, the joys of gastronomic rivalries!
8. Bagel Sandwich: Hidden Delight in Spokane
The ‘Grinder Bagel Sammy’ at Hidden Bagel in Spokane, Washington.
Prepare for a flavor explosion as we uncover a hidden gem in Spokane, Washington. Hidden Bagel is a treasure trove for bagel lovers like us, offering a symphony of flavors in their “Grinder Bagel Sammy.” Melted provolone, salami, pepperoni, tomato, shredded lettuce, red onion, and pepperoncini, all perfectly nestled in a fresh bagel. It’s a pièce de résistance that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
7. Breakfast Wrap/Burrito: A San Francisco Morning Delight
The Breakfast wrap/burrito at Hollywood Cafe, San Francisco.
While breakfast wraps are not uncommon in the UK, Chris discovered a whole new level of morning indulgence at Hollywood Cafe in San Francisco. Avocado, bell peppers, and the freshest ingredients wrapped in a tantalizing tomato tortilla. The flavors dance on your palate, making it a breakfast experience like no other. Bid farewell to boring baked beans and embrace the vibrancy of this San Francisco delight.
6. Shrimp Boil: Seattle’s Seafood Paradise
The shrimp dish at The Crab Pot, Seattle.
Seafood lovers, rejoice! Chris indulged his passion for the sea’s bounties at The Crab Pot in Seattle. The succulent, juicy shrimp, bathed in a tomato-based sauce with whispers of garlic, took his taste buds on a delicious adventure. Paired with perfectly cooked red potatoes and corn, it was a seafood feast fit for a king. Oh, how the UK prawns paled in comparison. Seafood aficionados, make your way to Seattle, for this delight alone is worth the journey.
5. Breakfast Bowl: Pure Morning Bliss in Minnesota
The “Breakfast bowl” at Farmer’s Daughter’s Kitchen in Blue Earth, Minnesota.
Breakfast connoisseurs, prepare to be dazzled! Farmer’s Daughters Kitchen in Blue Earth, Minnesota, serves up a breakfast bowl that will make your taste buds sing. Picture this: classic American breakfast taters smothered in sausage gravy and cheese, served with ham and toast. It’s a hearty masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of traditional English breakfast fare. No mere beans and toast here; instead, indulge in a savory symphony that will leave you longing for more.
4. ‘Double-Double’ Cheeseburger: In-N-Out’s Meaty Masterpiece
Double Double burger at In-N-Out Burger.
Yes, my stylish foodies, we have arrived at the temple of burgers – In-N-Out. Our fearless foodie, Chris, swears by the ‘Double-Double’ as the pinnacle of fast-food perfection. Succulent, juicy patties accompanied by big onions and a heavenly sauce that makes your taste buds sing. And let’s not forget the obligatory strawberry milkshake to complete the experience. Oh, how Chris dreams of a day when In-N-Out graces the UK with its presence. Until then, we can only hope and drool.
3. Fried Chicken Sandwich: Hot and Spicy Delight in Memphis
Fried chicken sandwich at Hattie B’s.
Calling all fried chicken enthusiasts! Prepare to have your taste buds set ablaze by the fiery delight that is Hattie B’s Hot Chicken in Memphis, TN. The fried chicken sandwich, bursting with juicy, tender chicken, tantalizes your senses and leaves you craving for more. The bread, the sauce, the chicken – it all comes together in a symphony of flavor that will make your heart race. Visit Tennessee, my fellow food connoisseurs, and experience this heavenly creation for yourselves.
2. Italian Hero Sandwich: New York’s Culinary Triumph
The “Cappone” sandwich from Cappone’s Italian Sandwich Shop, New York City.
Ah, the eternal charm of the Big Apple and its irresistible Italian-American delights. Cappone’s Italian Sandwich Shop and Salumeria stole Chris’s heart with their “Cappone” sandwich. Imagine layers upon layers of capicola, soppressata, salami, provolone, arugula, mozzarella, and hot peppers. This formidable sandwich is drizzled with olive oil and balsamic, creating a flavor symphony that will leave you weak at the knees. It’s the quintessential Italian-American experience, packed and ready to tantalize your taste buds.
1. Texas Barbecue: Where Meat Dreams Come True
Terry Black’s Barbeque.
Ah, my fellow fashionistas, we have reached the peak of meaty perfection – Texas barbecue. Brace yourselves for an epic journey of flavors at Terry Black’s BBQ. Brisket, sausage, pulled pork, and ribs, all cooked to perfection, await your discerning palate. Each bite is infused with the tender, smoky goodness that comes only from true barbecue mastery. And let’s not forget the heavenly mac and cheese that is like no other. The UK’s seafood options pale in comparison to this smoky symphony of flavors.
Now, my darlings, these were the dazzling dishes that stole Chris Tollerfield’s heart and left his taste buds in a state of pure bliss. But remember, not all culinary endeavors are successful. There were a few dishes that left Chris wishing for a palate cleanse.
The Culinary Misadventures
Country fried steak at Denny’s.
First, let’s address the deep-fried elephant in the room – country fried steak. Chris, a connoisseur of fine cuisine, found this dish at Denny’s, of all places. But alas, this deep-fried abomination left him questioning the American obsession with frying everything in sight. Some things just weren’t meant to be deep-fried, America!
Next up, we have the infamous Pittsburgh cone. This monstrous creation, consisting of a waffle cone stuffed with kielbasa, pierogies, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, left our British foodie befuddled. Not only was it impossible to eat, but its appearance also left much to be desired. I must say, Gordon Ramsay’s reaction to this culinary catastrophe would be quite a sight to behold.
Lastly, a heart-wrenching disappointment – KFC in Kentucky. Chris and his mate built up great expectations for the birthplace of KFC. Alas, the chicken lacked spice and flavor, and even the gravy tasted bland. Oh, what a sad day it was for our dear adventurer. But fear not, my fashionable foodies, for there is still hope for Kentucky to reclaim its fried chicken glory.
The Kingdom of Food Awaits
The United States, my fabulous fashion followers, truly is the kingdom of food. From coast to coast, you’ll find a culinary landscape as diverse as the fashion choices seen on the runway. It’s a land where flavors collide, and innovation runs wild.
While chain restaurants have their place, Chris discovered that local businesses often offer unparalleled experiences. Their passion and dedication elevate every dish, leaving a lasting impression on discerning palates. So, next time you find yourself on a culinary adventure, venture into the wild world of independent shops and savor the magic of personalized service and unparalleled quality.
My darlings, let us revel in the splendor of Chris Tollerfield’s gastronomic expedition. His taste buds danced with delight, and his spirit soared with every flavorful bite. But remember, the journey doesn’t end here. The world is filled with culinary wonders waiting to be discovered. So grab your forks and knives, my stylish foodies, and embark on your own delectable adventure. Bon appétit!
What are your favorite American dishes? Have you had any memorable food experiences while traveling? Share your thoughts and let’s indulge in a lively conversation about the beauty of food!
