If there’s one thing American regional cuisines do really, really well, it’s greasy food. Even the most health-conscious among us like to indulge in an artery-clogging, savory treat from time to time. Here are our suggestions for six deliciously greasy regional dishes and the best places in the U.S. to find them.
Chicken Fried Steak — Dawson County, Texas
While chicken fried steak has, in many ways, become the state food of Texas, this decadent dish is said to have originated in Dawson County, specifically the town of Lamesa, which hosts an annual chicken-fried steak festival. Historians point to the 19th century German and Austrian immigrants as the creators of this Texan treat.
What exactly is it, you ask? Chicken fried steak — sometimes called country fried steak — is a piece of beef pan fried in seasoned batter and smothered with gravy. Is your mouth watering yet? A few locations where you can get your fill in the Lone Star state are Lulu’s Bakery and Cafe in San Antonio, Houston’s Barbecue Inn, and Hoover’s Cooking in Austin.
Pastrami on Rye — New York City, New York
A staple in kosher delis throughout New York City, the concept of pastrami on rye was created by Sussman Volk in 1888. It’s been around for over 125 years, so you know it must be good. While foodies have created their own takes on the classic dish, it’s hard to beat the original: pastrami piled high on rye bread with mustard and pickles. For a truly memorable pastrami sandwich, try Katz’s Delicatessen and 2nd Avenue Deli.
Cuban Sandwich — Key West, Florida
When it comes to satisfying lunches, there’s nothing like a Cuban sandwich. The Cuban features an irresistible combination of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on grilled Cuban bread. It may have originated in either Tampa or Key West, but many Cuban sandwich aficionados think the latter is the best place to try this delectable dish. Some “Key” spots to order: Sandy’s Cafe, Cuban Coffee Queen, and Five Brothers.
Loco Moco — Hawaii
The ultimate post-surf snack — or hangover cure — the Loco Moco is a Hawaiian tradition. The dish consists of a mound of white rice topped with a hamburger patty and sunny side-up egg, and then smothered in gravy. Talk about comfort food!
This filling dish originated at the long-gone Lincoln Grill in Hilo and quickly became the most popular item on the menu, and for good reason! Some Hawaii locations where you can dig into Loco Moco include Liliha Bakery in Honolulu, Café 100 in Hilo, and Kaka’ako’s Highway Inn.
Cheese Curds — Ellsworth, Wisconsin
A favorite indulgence of Midwesterners is a basket of deep fried cheese curds. Of course, they don’t even need to be fried – you can eat them plain too! Cheese curds are made throughout the state of Wisconsin, but the city of Ellsworth, home of the Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery, really knows how to make and honor this regional favorite.
Each summer, the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a cheese curd festival that’s sure to satisfy your cravings — or curiosity! You can find other famously delicious servings of the dish in the cheese state at AJ Bombers in Milwaukee, the Old Fashioned in Madison, and pretty much any Culver’s throughout the state.
Philly Cheesesteak — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Few sandwiches hold as much pride of place in American food culture as the Philly cheesesteak. Created in the City of Brotherly Love in the 1930s, this decadent delight consists of thinly sliced beef, often ribeye, sautéed with onions and loaded onto a long, soft hoagie roll. The crowning glory is the cheese, and while many purists argue over the best type—whether Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American—it’s impossible to go wrong. Some locals might even say the secret is in the roll itself, which needs to have just the right texture to soak up all the juices.
For a true taste of this Philadelphia tradition, head to Pat’s King of Steaks, which claims to be the birthplace of the cheesesteak, or try its nearby rival, Geno’s Steaks. Other popular spots include Jim’s South Street and Tony Luke’s.
Beignets — New Orleans, Louisiana
In the heart of New Orleans, a classic beignet offers a deliciously sweet taste of the city’s French roots. These deep-fried squares of dough, sprinkled generously with powdered sugar, are soft on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside—essentially a pillow of sugary perfection. Dating back to the city’s Creole heritage, beignets have become a staple at breakfast or as a snack alongside a steaming cup of chicory coffee.
While you can find beignets in bakeries and cafes throughout the Crescent City, the Café du Monde in the French Quarter remains the gold standard for this iconic treat. Locals and visitors alike flock to this historic open-air café for a sweet indulgence that captures the spirit of New Orleans. If you can’t get to Café du Monde, check out Morning Call in City Park or Loretta’s Authentic Pralines in the Marigny neighborhood for equally satisfying alternatives.
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Poutine — Maine
Yes, we know that poutine originated in Québec, but it’s also a staple in Maine. Poutine has become quite popular over the past few years and chefs across the U.S. have put their own spin on the recipe. One restaurant in Chicago even serves elk poutine. Call us purists, but we think the traditional dish composed of French fries, fresh cheese curds, and gravy is the best. If you’re ever looking for poutine in the Pine Tree state, check out Blaze in Bangor, Duckfat in Portland, and Bar Harbor’s The Dog and Pony Tavern.
FAQs:
Q: Where can I find vegetarian or vegan versions of these iconic dishes?
A: Many major cities offer plant-based takes on classic dishes. For example, HipCityVeg in Philadelphia serves a vegan Philly cheesesteak. In New Orleans, Breads on Oak offers vegan beignets. Look for restaurants that specialize in vegan comfort food or offer regional plant-based menus.
Q: Can I find these regional foods outside their original cities?
A: Yes, many restaurants across the U.S. serve versions of these iconic dishes, though authenticity may vary. Major cities often have eateries that specialize in regional or traditional foods, and food trucks sometimes feature these dishes. However, for the truest experience, it’s best to try them in their home cities.
Q: Are these dishes typically available year-round?
A: Most of these iconic dishes are available year-round at restaurants specializing in regional cuisine. Some, like cheese curds, may also be tied to seasonal events or festivals, but you can usually find them on menus regardless of the season.
Q: How do I find the best versions of these dishes when traveling?
A: Ask locals or use online food review platforms for recommendations. Look for places with a long history of serving the dish or that are well-regarded by food critics. Many cities have food tours that focus on regional specialties, which can also be a great way to discover top spots.
Q: Are there allergy-friendly versions of these iconic dishes available?
A: Yes, many restaurants now offer allergy-friendly versions of classic dishes, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free options. For example, some places offer gluten-free bread for Cuban sandwiches or use alternative flours for fried foods like chicken-fried steak and beignets. Always inform your server about your allergies, as restaurants may customize dishes or provide ingredient details to ensure a safe dining experience.
Q: Can I bring these regional foods home?
A: Many of these dishes don’t travel well, but some locations offer packaged versions. For example, you can bring back sealed packets of beignet mix from Café du Monde or frozen Philly cheesesteaks from some delis. Check with individual restaurants or online shops for take-home options.
What are some of your favorite U.S. foods? Tell us about them in the comments below!
