Some people travel to see new sights. Some people travel to meet new people. Some people just travel to experience some delicious new food.
America is certainly a place that doesn’t lack in variety or volume of food. Although America is commonly associated with the cheeseburger and fries, it’s diverse population across states means different cities specialise in different cuisines. It is true that you’ll be able to taste the best burger and fries ever in NYC.
As you travel, you’ll notice different traditions in terms of food and drink. But you will also notice that it is all delicious! Whether you want some good old fashioned American diner food or have a penchant for the fancier restaurants, here are some cuisines to try while you are in the states.
The Preparation
No food can be eaten without adequate preparation. Ensure your passport is packed and you have your Visa sorted from official-esta.com. Then plan out where you intend on visiting. Do you want to eat the best burgers America has to offer? Or do you want to sample the finest sushi chefs across every state? Decide on how you want to do this, do some research into recommended restaurants and draw yourself a little map. This way you can work out the best route to take across the country to tackle every single menu!
Chicago
Japanese: Get your Sushi fix at Arami. This restaurant has been a total since it opened in 2010. The sushi is rooted in tradition and prides itself on excellence and simplicity. Go a la carte to sample speciality sashimi options. There are also plenty of vegetable-based options for vegetarians, including various aubergine-based dishes.
New York
American tradition: Twist & Smash’d. You can’t go wrong with a classic, and that’s exactly what the Original Smash’d is. The grill-fired burger is one of the most popular burgers in NYC. Angus beef with cheddar is the most commonly chosen, but there are plenty of choices for all, including a delicious veggie option. The mouth-watering meal doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket either. Win, win. You have sampled New York’s finest.
San Francisco
Italian: Eat some comfort food at Acquerello. Rich, home-cooked Italian food has been part of the American landscape for decades. It is rooted in family tradition. This restaurant is located in a former chapel which makes for an intimate dining experience. Indulge in pasta, black truffle and other contemporary takes on the classic Italian dish.
Las Vegas
Japanese: Visit the renowned Raku. A well-loved restaurant among Vegas natives and holidaymakers, Raku is a force to be reckoned with. Although it doesn’t serve sushi (head elsewhere if you have a particular craving), the restaurant has inventive dishes like Kobe beef liver sashimi and all your classic noodle soups. The dishes are fuss-free, expertly made and always delicious.
Los Angeles
Thai: Rodded restaurant. Take a break from the madness of LA and find comfort in a little soup. Perhaps you have spent the morning hiking and need a refuel. Or maybe you are headed for a night at the Viper Room later on and want to get some delicious food in you first. The duck noodle soup comes highly recommended from this Los Angeles-based restaurant. Simple, yet effective flavours explode in your mouth in the perfect combination. The noodle soups are not limited to duck by any means; there is a whole plethora of mouth-wateringly good soups for you to choose from.
Michigan
Lebanese: eat at Al Ameer. A large proportion of the population residing in this area are Halal foodies, so Lebanese-style food is incredibly popular in Michigan. This restaurant has consistently amazing reviews. It serves up delicious hummus, soft falafel, fattoush, kabobs, fresh pitas and so on. You will come away having tasted some of the finest Middle Eastern food the United States has to offer.
Los Angeles
Chinese: go mad for dumplings at Din Tai Fung Dumpling House in Los Angeles. This restaurant does exactly what it says on the tin. The Taiwan-based chain of dumpling shops has been making delectable food for decades and is now based throughout Asia and the United States. Din Tai Fung is the place to visit for authentic dumplings. You can choose from a huge range of flavours and fillings to suit every taste under the sun. But be warned: arrive early as the queue to get in here can get incredibly long!
If you are a self-confessed foodie, this should be enough to get you started. The best way to find out where to eat is just to ask people when you’re there though. It locally-recommended places that always surprise you, so always be open to new ideas when travelling.
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