What Are The Best American Foods to Try as an International Student?

Introduction

As an international student in the United States, one of the most exciting ways to immerse yourself in American culture is through its food. American cuisine is a melting pot of flavors, reflecting the country’s rich cultural diversity. From hearty comfort foods to sweet treats, there’s a wide variety of dishes to explore. Here are some must-try American foods that will give you a taste of the country’s culinary traditions.

Classic American Breakfast

Breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day, and in the U.S., it often includes a mix of sweet and savory items. Some popular breakfast staples to try include:

Pancakes:

Fluffy and often served with maple syrup, butter, and fruit toppings.

Bacon and Eggs:

A hearty combination that’s a staple in American diners.

Bagels with Cream Cheese:

Originally introduced by Jewish immigrants, bagels have become a beloved breakfast option across the country.

All of these classic American breakfast items can be found at many of the best American restaurants in the United States and Utah. Here are some local places that we suggest:

Black Bear Diner

Cracker Barrel

IHOP (International House of Pancakes)

Left: a "stack" of pancakes drizzled in caramel sauce and topped with strawberries, walnuts and a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. Center: chocolate chip bagel with strawberry cream cheese spread, a classic combination of flavors. Right: eggs fried "sunny-side-up" with a classic side of bacon.

Burgers and Fries

No exploration of American food is complete without trying a classic burger and fries. Burgers are highly customizable, with toppings ranging from cheese and lettuce to avocado and fried eggs. Many fast-food chains, such as McDonald’s and In-N-Out, offer iconic versions, but local diners and restaurants often have gourmet options worth trying.

a "triple" cheeseburger (3 "patties" of beef) with ham cut in half served with a side of fries. This combination is a traditional American past time and remains popular today.

For a great burger and fry experience you can visit In-and-Out Burger, Apollo Burger, and

Five Guys, all found locally in Utah Valley and Salt Lake Valley.

American Barbecue

Barbecue is a culinary tradition that varies by region, offering distinct flavors and cooking techniques. American Barbecue, done properly, is a very unique experience with a very deep history of tradition in the United States. Some popular barbecue styles include:

Texas Brisket:

Known for its smoky flavor and tender texture.

Kansas City Ribs:

Slathered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce.

Carolina Pulled Pork:

Often served with a vinegar-based sauce.

If you’re a meat lover, barbecue is a must-try experience that showcases America’s love for slow-cooked, flavorful dishes. Here are some delicious barbeque restaurants found locally in Utah:

R&R BBQ in various Utah Valley and Salt Lake City locations

Goodwood BBQ in Draper Utah

BamBams BBQ located 1/4 mile from Nomen Global

Left: a barbeque (abreviated "bbq") Carolina Pulled Pork sandwich drenched in bbq sauce. Center: Texas style beef brisket. Right: a "rack" of bbq ribs.

Comfort Foods

American comfort foods are warm, hearty, and nostalgic for many locals. These dishes are perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling homesick:

Macaroni and Cheese:

A creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s easy to love.

Chicken Pot Pie:

A savory pie filled with chicken, vegetables, and gravy.

Meatloaf:

A classic dinner option often served with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Sweet Treats and Desserts

America is known for its indulgent desserts. Here are a few you can’t miss:

Apple Pie:

Often referred to as “as American as apple pie,” this dessert is a symbol of American culture.

Brownies:

Dense, chocolatey, and perfect as a snack or dessert.

Donuts:

Available in countless flavors and styles, they’re a favorite for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Apple Pie - this is a traditional holiday dish that can be eaten at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you want.

Snacks and Street Foods

When you’re on the go, American snacks and street foods are worth exploring. Popular choices include:

Hot Dogs:

A quick and iconic street food often enjoyed at sports events.

Soft Pretzels:

Large, salty, and often served with mustard or cheese sauce.

Popcorn:

Available in both savory and sweet flavors, it’s a must-try at movie theaters.

Fusion Foods

Because America is home to diverse cultures, fusion foods have become a delicious trend. These dishes combine elements from different cuisines to create something new. For example:

Tex-Mex:

A blend of Texan and Mexican cuisine, featuring dishes like tacos, nachos, and burritos.

Korean Tacos:

A fusion of Korean barbecue and Mexican tacos.

Sushi Burritos:

A fun twist on traditional sushi rolls.

"Asian style tacos" - These combine the Mexican tortilla with common asian ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil and teriyaki sauce.

A great place to eat Asian and Mexican fusion food is a place in Utah Valley and Salt Lake City called Zao Asian Cafe:

Zao Asian Cafe

Conclusion

Exploring American cuisine is an adventure that goes beyond just eating; it’s a way to connect with the culture and people around you. Whether you’re indulging in a burger, savoring barbecue, or treating yourself to apple pie, each dish tells a story of America’s rich culinary heritage. So step out of your comfort zone, try something new, and savor the delicious journey of discovering American food. Who knows? You might even find a new favorite dish along the way!