Land of the free and the home of the brave? That might be America’s official slogan, but you can also get it with a side of fries and a 32 ounce Coca-Cola. For better or for worse, America is the official home of the fast food phenomenon that has taken over the entire planet. Those in other countries might just get to see McDonald’s, Burger King, and KFC at the forefront, but when you dig deeper into American culture there is a treasure trove of better tasting and more personalized fare.
From LA to New England and everywhere in-between; America is literally a diverse melting pot of fantastic fast foods and regional specialties. Here are some of my local favorites from select American regions:
In-N-Out Burger
Starting with the west coast, Los Angeles is home to glitzy movie stars and their agents going through dozens of Prepaid Cell Phones trying to get them work. It is also home to one of the most prolific burger joints in the entire country; In-N-Out Burger. There are no frills with this chain located in the west. They just take a good greasy burger, traditional fries, and real milkshakes you can’t get anywhere else and make it work like nobody else can.
Chipotle
If we venture a little further east into the Great Rocky Mountains, we will find a chain of Mexican inspired burrito restaurants that specialize in local ingredients, fresh tortillas, and oversized portions. The chain is renowned for only using the highest quality produce and the owner has even testified to US Congress about the use of antibiotics in animals.
Waffle House
If we dive into the deep south of the US, several brightly colored restaurants that look like converted trailers will pop up at almost every highway exit. These little huts, not-so-subtly named “Waffle House” serve up the usual diner fare found in most American greasy spoons. They specialize in hashbrowns covered, smothered, and diced, as well as burgers and of course waffles.
Waffle House holds a special purpose with the US government and their Federal Emergency Management Agency. When Waffle House offers an entire menu, the area is usually safe. When they offer a limited menu, there is probably danger. When Waffle House is completely shut down, the entire community is in possible danger.
McDonald’s
I know I said this itinerary would not include the over-saturated McDonald’s chain, but if you travel to north to states like Maine and Massachusetts you can find a regional delicacy not offered in most McDonald’s locations. Restaurants in New England have access to an abundant amount of fresh lobster and McDonald’s takes advantage of it by serving up seasonal lobster rolls. Picture chunks of lobster tossed with mayo, celery, and lemon juice served up in a hot dog bun and you will
If you ever get a chance to visit the US, try to find the best local fast food fare. This will give you a deeper understanding of the unique cultures of every region of the country.
