State Dishes (Popular Food around the US)

The United States is a melting pot of cultures, each contributing to a diverse culinary landscape that differs significantly from state to state. Each region and state has developed its favorite dishes, often influenced by the local climate, historical migrations, and available resources. In this guide, we are breaking down data showing what foods are most popular across the US by state along with info about restaurant trends and more.

Which dishes are the most loved in each state? We’ve used data from social media and Google to find out and shared some of our favorite dinner recipes so that you can try some for yourself! We’ve also looked at which cities around the US are best for foodies based on the meal cost and the diversity of restaurant options.

The most popular state dishes in the USA

After compiling a list of state dishes in the US, we looked at Instagram, TikTok, and Google search data to reveal the most popular state dishes in the US.

Bagels are the most popular state dish, with a score of 9.78 out of 10.

Bagels, New York – 9.78 state dish score

Taking the top spot are bagels, with a state dish score of 9.78 out of 10. Originating from New York, bagels were made in the 1800s as a filling, affordable snack for Jewish immigrants living in Manhattan. Bagels have more than twice as many Google searches as any other state dish. They also sit in the top five for Instagram and TikTok posts.

Avocado toast – 9.69 state dish score

Avocado toast takes second place with a state dish score of 9.69 out of 10. Despite being a globally popular dish, avocado toast originates from California, with reports that as early as 1885, people ate this dish in the San Francisco Bay area. Avocado toast is the second most-posted state dish on TikTok and Instagram, proving how trendy it’s become in recent years.

Enchiladas – 9.63 state dish score

Our top three is completed by enchiladas, with a state dish score of 9.63 out of 10. Enchiladas are a Mexican dish heavily associated with New Mexico, formerly part of Mexico. Enchiladas are tortilla wraps rolled around a filling and covered in a savory sauce. They’re incredibly versatile, as the filling and sauce can be your choice, heavily contributing to their popularity. They are the second-most Googled state dish and the sixth and seventh-most posted dish on TikTok and Instagram, respectively.

Each States Favorite State Dish

Each state has a dish that it’s associated with, but just how popular are these dishes across the country? We’ve looked at Google search data to reveal which state dishes each state is searching for the most.

Bagels were the most searched state dish in 23 out of 50 states, more than any other state dish.

Bagels, New York – 23 states

Taking the top spot are bagels, the most searched state dish in 23 states. In the US, bagels were searched for 11 million times in the last year, with New York, where it originated, searching for this 2.5 million times, more than any other state, followed by California with just over 1 million searches.

Enchiladas, New Mexico – 7 states

In second place are enchiladas, the most searched state dish in seven states. The seven states that are searching for enchiladas the most are Indiana, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wisconsin. Of these states, Texas searched for enchiladas the most, with almost 500,000 Google searches in the last 12 months.

Fried Green Tomatoes, North Carolina/Runza, Nebraska – 3 states

Our top three is completed by two state dishes, fried green tomatoes and runza, the most searched in three states. Iowa, South Dakota, and Nebraska, where the dish originated from, searched for runza the most, with Kentucky, Georgia, and Alabama searching for fried green tomatoes the most. Interestingly, fried green tomatoes are the state dish of North Carolina, where bagels were searched for the most over the last 12 months.

What is each state’s favorite meal?

So, those are the nation’s favorite local specialties, but the food scene in the US is so much broader, with Americans enjoying meals that originated not just in the country itself but from around the world. Here are the meals that Americans enjoy most in each state.

1. Pizza – 69.2 million

Across the country, pizza is by far the most loved meal, with almost 70 million searches in the last year, more than twice as many as the second-placed meal. The dish’s adaptability allows it to cater to various tastes and dietary requirements, from classic pepperoni to gourmet vegan selections. Its communal nature makes it a favorite for group gatherings, family dinners, and social events, reinforcing its position as a staple in American dining culture.

2. Sushi – 33.2 million

Sushi comes in second place, with over 30 million searches over the last 12 months for this Japanese cuisine. The popularity of sushi in the U.S. can be attributed to its perception as a fresh, healthier alternative to fast food, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Additionally, the rise of sushi is part of a broader trend toward globalized food choices among Americans, who are increasingly seeking diverse, authentic, and high-quality dining experiences.

3. Chili – 27.9 million

Chili ranks third, showcasing its status as a beloved comfort food in America. Its versatility is key to its popularity; chili can be customized with various ingredients, whether meat-based or vegetarian, spicy or mild. Often associated with home cooking, community events, and sports (like Super Bowl parties), chili’s appeal spans different regions and demographics, reflecting its deep-rooted place in American culinary traditions.

The data clearly shows a dominant preference for pizza in most states, with 44 states listing pizza as the most popular dish. Only five states—Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island—deviate from this trend, preferring chili.

Chili is particularly popular in New Mexico, with a distinct culinary style heavily influenced by Native American and Hispanic cultures. It is known for its love of chilies (especially the New Mexico chile).

Which are the best US cities for foodies?

The US has a diverse culinary landscape with numerous cities being renowned for their food scenes. But which are the best to visit? To find out, we’ve compared some of the country’s major cities on factors such as the cost of a meal, the number of restaurants at different price points, and Instagrammability.

1. Denver, Colorado – 8.05 out of 10

Denver ranks as the best foodie city with a score of 8.05, offering a balanced mix of affordability and quality. The average cost of a three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant is $80, which is relatively affordable compared to other top cities. Denver’s food scene is diverse, with 167 mid-range restaurants per 100,000 people and an emerging high-end dining scene with ten fine-dining restaurants per 100,000. Impressively, it also boasts 4 Michelin Star restaurants per 100,000 people. Its substantial social media presence reflects the city’s vibrant food scene, with 423,299 Instagram posts.

2. Las Vegas, Nevada – 7.59 out of 10

Known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment, Las Vegas is also a top destination for food enthusiasts. It has the second-highest foodie score at 7.59. The city is notable for its exceptionally high number of cheap eats, with 164 per 100,000 people and an impressive array of mid-range (243) and fine dining options (29 per 100,000 people). Despite its reputation for luxury, the average cost for a three-course meal is reasonably priced at $75. However, it lacks any Michelin Star restaurants, which puts it at a disadvantage to Denver.

3. Washington, D.C. – 6.84 out of 10

The United States capital city offers more than just historical landmarks; it features a rich and sophisticated dining scene. Washington, D.C. scores 6.84, propelled by its high concentration of Michelin Star restaurants—18 per 100,000 people, the second-highest on our list. The city also has a robust offering of mid-range restaurants (218 per 100,000 people) and many fine dining establishments (21 per 100,000). The cost for a three-course meal stands at $100, aligning with its profile of luxury and high-quality dining options. Its cultural and political significance might also contribute to the diverse, high-end food scene.

What Cities are the Most Affordable for Food

Fort Worth, Texas – $60 for a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant

While fine dining certainly has its place, affordability is essential for most Americans, especially now. With that in mind, the city where you can grab a bite to eat the cheapest is Fort Worth, Texas, at just $60 for a meal for two. Fort Worth’s food culture is deeply influenced by its Texan heritage, renowned for barbecue, Tex-Mex, and cowboy cuisine.

Forth Worth is closely followed by another Texas city, El Paso, at $62, then by Memphis, at $65. Detroit and Columbus share the fourth rank with a cost of $70.

Which states have the most restaurants?

For each of the three tiers of restaurants we looked at (cheap eats, mid-range, and fine dining), the same city came out on top: Las Vegas. Here’s a look at each tier in more detail.

Which cities have the most cheap eat restaurants?

Las Vegas, Nevada

164 cheap eats restaurants per 100,000 people

And if you’re looking for an affordable, quick bite to eat, the place with the most choice is Las Vegas, with 164 “cheap eats” restaurants per 100,000 people. Millions of tourists visit Vegas annually, many prioritizing accessible and affordable options. From the classic $1.99 shrimp cocktail specials to gourmet food trucks serving everything from Korean BBQ tacos to artisanal pizzas, Las Vegas ensures that budget dining does not compromise on variety or flavor.

It is followed by Portland, with 126.5 cheap eats per 100,000 people, which is known for its eclectic food culture, heavily featuring food trucks and small independent eateries. Third place goes to Boston, with 108.4 budget-friendly restaurants per 100,000 people.

Which cities have the most mid-range restaurants?

Las Vegas, Nevada

243 mid-range restaurants per 100,000 people

The mid-range dining scene in Las Vegas is as vibrant and varied as the city, offering many culinary experiences that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. With a remarkable density of 243 mid-range restaurants per 100,000 people, Las Vegas stands out not only for its sheer quantity but also for the quality and diversity of its offerings. Whether looking for a quick pre-show dinner or a leisurely meal with friends, the mid-range restaurants in Las Vegas offer a middle ground that should satisfy everyone.

Boston follows closely with 237 mid-range eateries per 100,000 residents. Boston’s blend of historical attractions and a large student population supports a vibrant restaurant scene that spans a range of cuisines and price points. San Francisco ranks third with 221.8 mid-range dining options per 100,000 people. Despite its high cost of living, San Francisco maintains a diverse food scene that balances price and quality, catering to locals and tourists.

Which cities have the most fine dining restaurants?

Las Vegas, Nevada

29 fine dining restaurants per 100,000 people

Las Vegas is renowned for its vibrant entertainment and gaming industries and its luxurious fine dining scene. The city boasts many fine dining restaurants, with 29 per 100,000 people, highlighting its status as a premier gastronomic destination. Las Vegas is home to an array of fine dining establishments, many of which are led by celebrity chefs. These include world-renowned names like Gordon Ramsay, Wolfgang Puck, and Joël Robuchon.

Washington, D.C. ranks second with 21.1 fine dining establishments per 100,000 people. The capital’s dining scene caters to diplomats, politicians, and visitors from around the globe, with a vibrant, high-end restaurant industry. San Francisco holds the third spot with 19.8 fine-dining restaurants per 100,000 residents. Known for its culinary innovation and access to high-quality ingredients, San Francisco is a foodie haven with a strong emphasis on luxury dining.

Which cities have the most Michelin Star restaurants?

San Francisco, California – 23 per 100,000 people

Michelin Star restaurants represent the pinnacle of fine dining, and it’s one of the most significant accolades a restaurant can achieve. San Francisco has the most, with 23 per 100,000 people, with some of the best dining experiences in the country. San Francisco’s Michelin-starred restaurants are celebrated for their diverse culinary offerings, which range from contemporary American to traditional Asian and everything in between. There’s also a solid commitment to sustainability and local, organic ingredients.

Washington, D.C., comes in second with 17.7 Michelin Star restaurants per 100,000 people. As the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. attracts a variety of high-end dining establishments catering to local and international tastes, influenced by its global diplomatic presence. Chicago ranks third, with 5.6 Michelin Star restaurants per 100,000 people. Chicago’s culinary scene is celebrated for its creativity and the city’s deep-rooted food culture, which includes both avant-garde dining and traditional dishes.

Which cities have the most Instagrammable food scene?

Chicago, Illinois – 999,684 Instagram posts

Chicago’s culinary scene is rich in diversity and quality and enjoys a vibrant presence on social media, particularly on Instagram. The city has nearly a million Instagram posts related to its food scene. It has a highly engaged community of food lovers, bloggers, influencers, and chefs who actively share and promote Chicago’s dining experiences. Chicago’s restaurants range from deep-dish pizza joints to high-end dining establishments, each offering visually appealing dishes perfect for Instagram.

Houston follows with 896,003 posts. Known for its BBQ, Tex-Mex, and an impressive array of international cuisines, Houston’s culinary scene is a reflection of its multicultural population. Dallas ranks third with 886,616 posts, closely trailing Houston. Dallas boasts a growing food scene that includes high-end restaurants and popular local eats, capturing the attention of food lovers on social media.

How to make America’s favorite dishes

If the above has inspired you to have a go at making any of America’s favorite dishes for yourself, here are some recipes from the Cookie Rookie to show you how it’s done:

• Bagels: Pizza Bagels
• Enchiladas: Cheesy Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
• Apple Pie: Homemade Apple Pie Recipe
• Pizza: Homemade Pizza Dough
• Sushi: Seared Ahi Tuna
• Chili: Homemade Chili

Methodology

We created seed lists of America’s favorite state dishes and meals, using sources such as the following:

• https://www.mashed.com/251111/the-most-famous-food-in-every-state/
• https://www.businessinsider.com/most-famous-local-dish-every-state-2020-9
• https://www.buzzfeed.com/farrahpenn/the-most-popular-foods-in-each-us-state
• https://www.farandwide.com/s/best-food-every-state-a66f5f079d914bab.
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_foods
• https://www.queenofthehousehold.com/dinner-ideas/
• https://www.listchallenges.com/top-100-food-items-of-all-time

We then used Google Ads Keyword Planner to find the number of searches for each nationally and in each state between April 2023 and March 2024.

For the foodie cities section, we analyzed each city on the following factors, giving each a normalized score out of 10 for each factor before taking an average of these. Note that each of these are correct as of April 17th, 2024.

• Cost of a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant: Sourced from Numbeo
• Cheap eats restaurants: sourced from Tripadvisor
• Mid-range restaurants: sourced from Tripadvisor
• Fine dining restaurants: sourced from Tripadvisor
• Michelin Star restaurants: sourced from the Michelin Guide
• Instagram posts: The number of posts using the city’s name followed “foodie” as a hashtag.

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