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American cuisine is a melting pot of global flavors, influenced by generations of immigrants and regional traditions. From tacos in the Southwest to dim sum in the Northeast, food preferences vary widely across the country. But what if we mapped out these preferences? The maps below highlight the most popular cuisines in different U.S. states, showing a clear regional divide in America’s favorite foods.
The Most Popular Ethnic Cuisine in Each State
One of the maps, created using Google Trends data, reveals how ethnic cuisine preferences differ by state. The three dominant cuisines are:
Mexican cuisine is the most searched ethnic food in the western and southwestern states, including California, Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico. Given these states’ deep historical and cultural ties to Mexico, the popularity of dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and tamales makes perfect sense. Mexican food is also widely available and affordable, making it a go-to choice for many Americans.
Chinese cuisine is the top ethnic food in most eastern and Midwestern states, including New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Ohio. Chinese-American dishes like General Tso’s chicken, lo mein, and dumplings have long been favorites across the U.S., thanks to large Chinese communities and the widespread availability of Chinese takeout.
Thai cuisine stands out in just one state—Alaska. Thai food’s popularity in the state may be due to its bold flavors, Alaska’s growing international food scene, and the influence of tourism bringing in global tastes.
While Google Trends data shows what people search for, another map—based on restaurant visit data from Google News Lab—shows which cuisines Americans actually eat the most. The map, broken down by county, shows that:
Pizza and Mexican food dominate the U.S. in terms of restaurant visits. Pizza reigns supreme in many parts of the Midwest and Northeast, where Italian-American communities have long influenced local food culture.
Burgers are king in Wisconsin, home to a strong tradition of diners and fast food. The state’s love for cheeseburgers is also tied to its dairy industry.
Philadelphia and New Jersey are all about sandwiches, with cheesesteaks and hoagies being the local favorites.
Seafood is the top choice along the coasts, particularly in the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, where fresh fish and shellfish are widely available.
As fast food trends continue to evolve, so do broader food preferences. Some cuisines are rising in popularity across the country.
What’s Trending? The Rise of New Favorite Cuisines
As food trends evolve, some cuisines are gaining popularity across the U.S.:
Korean cuisine has seen a surge in interest, thanks in part to the global rise of K-pop and Korean culture. Dishes like Korean BBQ, bibimbap, and kimchi are appearing on more menus nationwide.
Mediterranean cuisine is gaining traction, especially in urban areas. Many Americans are turning to Greek and Middle Eastern dishes like hummus, falafel, and gyros for their fresh ingredients and perceived health benefits.
Japanese cuisine, particularly ramen and sushi, continues to grow in popularity as more Americans seek out authentic and high-quality Asian dining experiences.
With these shifting food trends in mind, it’s also worth considering which cuisines are the healthiest.
Healthier Choices: Which Cuisine Is the Best for You?
Some cuisines are naturally healthier than others due to their ingredients and cooking methods. Mediterranean cuisine is often considered one of the healthiest, with its emphasis on olive oil, lean proteins, and fresh vegetables. Japanese food is also a strong contender, particularly sushi, which features fresh fish, seaweed, and rice. Both of these cuisines focus on balanced meals with nutrient-dense ingredients, making them excellent choices for health-conscious eaters.
America’s food map is constantly changing as new flavors gain popularity and cultural influences continue to shape the way we eat. Whether you’re a fan of tacos, dumplings, or a classic slice of pizza, there’s no denying that the U.S. is one of the best places in the world for diverse and delicious food.
What’s your favorite cuisine? Let us know in the comments!
