50 Must-Try Signature Foods From Every State (Some Might Surprise You)

Food & Drink Travel
By Amelia Brooks

Explore the culinary wonders of each state with our handpicked selection of 50 signature foods that showcase the unique flavors and traditions across the United States. Each dish tells a story of local heritage, cultural influences, and regional pride.

1. Alabama — Chicken with white BBQ sauce

© The Sassy Foodie

In Alabama, barbecue takes on a unique twist with chicken smothered in a creamy, tangy white BBQ sauce. This mayo-based sauce is credited to Bob Gibson from the 1920s and has become a staple in North Alabama.

The sauce’s blend of vinegar, mayonnaise, and spices perfectly complements the smokiness of the chicken. It’s a dish that surprises newcomers with its delightful flavor contrast.

Served with traditional sides like coleslaw and baked beans, this dish is a must-try for anyone visiting the state. Its distinctive taste is a testament to Alabama’s rich culinary tradition.

2. Alaska — King crab

© Cosmo Appliances

Alaska’s Bering Sea king crab is a seafood treasure. Imagine cracking open the crab’s robust shell to reveal tender, succulent meat that’s buttery and sweet. Enjoyed best in bisque or simply with melted butter, this crustacean stands as a must-eat delicacy.

Many travelers journey to Alaska just to experience this oceanic delight, often served in rustic fishing villages with panoramic sea views. Its colossal claws are a testament to the state’s rich marine bounty.

Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or a curious diner, King crab offers a taste of the wild, untamed spirit of Alaska.

3. Arizona — Chimichanga

© Tucson Foodie

In Arizona, the chimichanga is a beloved staple. This deep-fried burrito, filled with savory beef or chicken, offers a delightful contrast between its crispy exterior and tender filling.

Legend has it that the chimichanga was accidentally born at Tucson’s El Charro Café in the mid-20th century, an accident that became a culinary icon. Today, it’s served statewide, often accompanied by guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.

Whether you’re seeking comfort food or a taste of Southwestern flair, the chimichanga tantalizes with every crunchy bite.

4. Arkansas — Fried pickles

© Daily Meal

Fried pickles are an Arkansas delight, transforming the humble cucumber into a savory snack. These pickles, first battered and served near the Atkins Pickle Plant in the 1960s, have become a staple across the state.

Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, complemented by the tangy, juicy interior. Often served with ranch dressing for dipping, fried pickles are a crowd-pleaser at fairs and restaurants alike.

Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a bar snack, they embody the playful and inventive spirit of Southern cuisine.

5. California — Avocado toast

© Female Foodie

California’s love for avocados finds its perfect expression in avocado toast. This modern classic showcases the state’s avocado obsession, with creamy avocado spread generously over artisanal bread.

Often garnished with toppings like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or microgreens, each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures. Found everywhere from beach cafés to fine dining establishments, avocado toast is a testament to California’s fresh and health-conscious culinary ethos.

It’s a dish that reflects the state’s sunny disposition and penchant for innovation in food.

6. Colorado — Colorado lamb

© lombardicucinahtx

Colorado’s high-country pastures produce lamb renowned for its rich, tender quality. Celebrated across restaurant menus, Colorado lamb is often grilled to perfection, seasoned with herbs like rosemary and thyme.

The state’s elevation and climate contribute to the lamb’s distinct flavor profile, making it a favorite among meat lovers.

Whether served with a mint sauce or roasted vegetables, each dish offers a taste of Colorado’s rugged landscape and agricultural heritage. It’s a culinary experience that brings the essence of the Rockies to your plate.

7. Connecticut — New Haven white-clam apizza

© CT Insider

New Haven’s white-clam apizza is a regional gem, showcasing Connecticut’s rich Italian-American heritage. This coal-fired, sauceless pizza is topped with garlic, pecorino, and fresh clams, offering a unique and savory taste.

The thin, charred crust provides the perfect base for the briny clams and robust flavors. Often enjoyed in New Haven’s iconic pizzerias, it draws pizza aficionados from all over.

For those seeking a departure from traditional pizza, white-clam apizza offers an exciting culinary adventure, embodying the creativity and tradition of Connecticut’s food scene.

8. Delaware — The Bobbie

© Tasting Table

The Bobbie is Delaware’s homage to Thanksgiving, neatly wrapped in a sandwich. This Capriotti’s creation layers roasted turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mayo, delivering holiday nostalgia year-round.

It’s a comforting blend of flavors and textures, with the tangy cranberry cutting through the richness of turkey and stuffing. Often hailed as the best sandwich in America, The Bobbie is a local legend.

Whether you’re a fan of Thanksgiving or just love a hearty sandwich, it captures the essence of holiday cheer in every bite.

9. Florida — Key lime pie

© Southern Living

Key lime pie is Florida’s signature dessert, offering a taste of the tropics with every bite. Its tart key-lime custard, nestled in a graham-cracker crust, is both refreshing and indulgent.

Born in the Florida Keys, this pie is celebrated statewide, often topped with whipped cream for a touch of sweetness.

Whether you’re enjoying it by the beach or at a local diner, Key lime pie is a delicious reminder of Florida’s sunny climate and laid-back lifestyle. It’s a dessert that captures the essence of the Sunshine State.

10. Georgia — Peach cobbler

© The Wilderness Princess

Georgia’s peach cobbler is a celebration of the state’s most famous fruit. This emblematic dessert features juicy peaches beneath a golden, flaky crust. Served warm, often with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s the perfect treat for a summer day.

During festivals, towns even bake record-size cobblers, showcasing their peach pride. Each bite is a taste of Southern hospitality and tradition.

For those who appreciate rustic, comforting desserts, peach cobbler offers a delightful blend of sweetness and warmth that is quintessentially Georgian.

11. Hawaii — Poke

© Allrecipes

Hawaii’s poke is a fresh and vibrant dish that embodies the flavors of the islands. Typically made with cubed raw tuna, it is dressed in a savory soy-sesame sauce and served over rice.

The dish is a staple at local gatherings, offering a taste of the ocean in every bite. Poke bowls can be customized with various toppings like seaweed, green onions, and avocado.

For those seeking a lighter meal with a burst of tropical flavor, poke provides a delicious and healthy option that reflects Hawaii’s laid-back lifestyle.

12. Idaho — Finger steaks

© Indian Creek Steakhouse

Idaho’s finger steaks offer a unique twist on traditional bar food. These battered, deep-fried strips of beef are crispy on the outside and tender inside, making them a beloved snack throughout the state.

Often served with fries and a tangy dipping sauce, they are a perfect pairing for a cold beer. First popularized in Boise, finger steaks have become a staple in local bars and restaurants.

For those craving a hearty, satisfying bite, they provide a taste of Idaho’s inventive and hearty culinary spirit.

13. Illinois — Chicago deep-dish pizza

© Simply Recipes

Chicago’s deep-dish pizza is a culinary icon that redefined pizza for a city. With its tall, thick crust and cheese-first, saucy slices, it offers a rich, filling experience that pizza lovers adore.

Often baked in a cast-iron skillet, the caramelized edges add a unique flavor and texture. Whether topped with sausage, pepperoni, or vegetables, each slice is a meal in itself.

For those who appreciate a hearty, indulgent pizza, Chicago deep-dish is a must-try, capturing the bold and vibrant spirit of the Windy City.

14. Indiana — Sugar cream pie (“Hoosier pie”)

© The Short Order Cook

Sugar cream pie, affectionately known as “Hoosier pie,” is Indiana’s custardy delight. This simple yet irresistible pie features a creamy, vanilla-infused filling encased in a flaky crust.

Loved for its humble, comforting flavors, it’s recognized in state records as Indiana’s unofficial state pie.

Often enjoyed with a cup of coffee, sugar cream pie is a taste of nostalgia that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. It’s a dessert that embodies the heartland’s charm and culinary tradition.

15. Iowa — Maid-Rite loose-meat sandwich

© Allrecipes

Iowa’s Maid-Rite sandwich is a Midwestern original, offering a crumbly, seasoned beef experience unlike any other. Served on a soft bun with pickles and mustard, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal.

The loose-meat texture is a signature, setting it apart from traditional burgers. Often enjoyed at roadside diners, it represents the honest, straightforward flavors of the Midwest.

For those seeking a taste of regional comfort food, the Maid-Rite sandwich provides a hearty, unpretentious bite that’s quintessentially Iowan.

16. Kansas — Barbecue ribs

© Vindulge

Kansas is synonymous with barbecue, and its ribs are a point of state pride. These smoky, slow-cooked ribs are glazed with a tangy sauce that enhances their rich flavor.

Whether served with coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread, each bite is a celebration of Kansas’s barbecue tradition. The tender meat falls off the bone, providing a satisfying and flavorful experience.

For those who love barbecue, Kansas ribs are a must-try, capturing the essence of the state’s vibrant and smoky culinary heritage.

17. Kentucky — Hot Brown

© Southern Living

The Hot Brown is Kentucky’s iconic open-faced sandwich, offering a rich and indulgent experience. Created at Louisville’s Brown Hotel, it features turkey, crisp bacon, and creamy Mornay sauce, all broiled to perfection.

Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, with the savory elements complemented by a hint of nuttiness from the sauce.

Often garnished with parsley, the Hot Brown is a comforting dish that embodies Kentucky’s hospitality and culinary creativity. It’s a must-try for those seeking a taste of Southern comfort food.

18. Louisiana — Gumbo

© Sip and Feast

Gumbo is Louisiana’s soulful stew, capturing the state’s rich culinary heritage in a bowl. This roux-based dish, whether Creole or Cajun, is filled with a medley of ingredients like sausage, shrimp, and okra.

The deep flavors are a testament to the state’s diverse cultural influences, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Served with rice, gumbo is a staple at family gatherings and festivals.

For those seeking an authentic taste of Louisiana, gumbo offers a warm, comforting embrace of the state’s vibrant food traditions.

19. Maine — Lobster roll

© 1001 Culinary Adventures

Maine’s lobster roll is a quintessential coastal delight, offering a taste of the sea with every bite. Served in a warm buttered or cool mayo-dressed style, it highlights the sweet, succulent lobster meat.

Whether enjoyed at a seaside shack or a fine dining restaurant, each roll celebrates Maine’s rich maritime tradition. The simplicity of the dish allows the lobster’s natural flavors to shine through.

For seafood lovers, a Maine lobster roll is a must, capturing the essence of New England’s coastal charm and culinary excellence.

20. Maryland — Crab cakes

© Allrecipes

Maryland’s crab cakes are a seafood lover’s dream, showcasing the sweet, delicate flavor of jumbo lump blue crab. With minimal filler and a hint of Old Bay seasoning, each cake is a celebration of local flavors.

Often served with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, they provide a deliciously crispy bite that’s both satisfying and elegant.

For those seeking authentic Chesapeake Bay cuisine, Maryland crab cakes offer a taste of the sea that’s rich in tradition and flavor, making them a must-try dish.

21. Massachusetts — Clam chowder

© Boston Magazine

Massachusetts’s clam chowder is a New England classic, offering a comforting blend of creamy broth and tender clams. This hearty soup, filled with quahogs and potatoes, is often served with oyster crackers.

Each spoonful captures the region’s maritime heritage, providing a warm, satisfying meal perfect for chilly days. Loved by locals and tourists alike, clam chowder is a staple in Boston’s culinary scene.

For those visiting Massachusetts, clam chowder is a must-try, offering a delicious taste of coastal tradition and hospitality.

22. Michigan — Detroit-style pizza

© Grande Cheese

Detroit-style pizza is a Motor City original, known for its square shape and caramelized edges. Baked in blue steel pans, this pizza features a thick, airy crust topped with cheese and tomato sauce.

The cheese often extends to the edges, creating a crispy, flavorful border. Toppings like pepperoni or sausage add to the richness, making each slice a hearty meal.

For those who appreciate bold, comforting flavors, Detroit-style pizza offers a unique and satisfying taste of Michigan’s culinary innovation and pride.

23. Minnesota — Juicy Lucy

© Explore Minnesota

Minnesota’s Juicy Lucy is a burger lover’s dream, featuring molten cheese sealed inside the patty. This local creation offers a delightful surprise with every bite, as the cheese oozes out in a glorious lava flow.

Often served with fries and a pickle, it’s a must-try for those visiting the Twin Cities. The Juicy Lucy embodies the fun and playful side of Minnesota’s culinary scene.

For those seeking a unique burger experience, it provides a taste of creativity and indulgence that’s hard to resist.

24. Mississippi — Fried catfish

© Entertaining the RV Life

Fried catfish is Mississippi’s comfort food, offering a taste of the Delta with every crispy bite. These cornmeal-crusted fillets are often served with hushpuppies and coleslaw, providing a satisfying meal.

A staple at local diners and family gatherings, fried catfish reflects the state’s love for simple, flavorful dishes. The tender fish inside the crunchy coating is a delight for seafood lovers.

For those exploring Southern cuisine, fried catfish provides a warm, inviting taste of Mississippi’s culinary heritage and hospitality.

25. Missouri — Toasted ravioli

© House of Nash Eats

St. Louis’ toasted ravioli is Missouri’s crispy, savory treat. These breaded and fried ravioli are filled with cheese or meat, offering a delicious bite-sized appetizer.

Best enjoyed with marinara sauce for dipping, they provide a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and soft filling.

Often served at Italian restaurants and festivals, toasted ravioli is a testament to the city’s vibrant Italian-American culture. For those seeking a taste of St. Louis, these bite-sized delights are a must-try.

26. Montana — Huckleberry treats

© Food.com

Montana’s huckleberry treats are a celebration of the state’s wild mountain berries. Whether turned into jams, ice creams, or pies, these berries offer a sweet, tangy flavor.

Huckleberry pie, with its golden crust and juicy filling, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Often enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a taste of Big Sky Country’s natural bounty.

For those with a sweet tooth, huckleberry treats provide a unique and delicious taste of Montana’s rugged and fruitful landscape.

27. Nebraska — Runza

© Visit Nebraska

Nebraska’s Runza is a hearty, comforting dish that’s aptly born on the Plains. This baked bread pocket is stuffed with seasoned beef, cabbage, and onions, offering a warm, satisfying bite.

Often enjoyed at local diners and gatherings, Runza reflects Nebraska’s immigrant heritage and agricultural roots.

For those seeking a taste of Midwestern comfort food, a Runza provides a delicious and filling experience, capturing the essence of Nebraska’s culinary tradition and hospitality.

28. Nevada — Shrimp cocktail

© Tasting Table

Nevada’s shrimp cocktail is a retro delight, often associated with the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. This classic dish features plump shrimp served with zesty cocktail sauce, offering a refreshing bite.

Popular in casinos and old-school steakhouses, it’s a nod to Nevada’s vibrant dining scene. The simplicity of the dish allows the shrimp’s natural sweetness to shine through.

For those seeking a taste of vintage Vegas, shrimp cocktail provides a delicious and nostalgic experience that’s hard to beat.

29. New Hampshire — Apple-cider doughnuts

© 97.5 WOKQ

New Hampshire’s apple-cider doughnuts are a taste of autumn, offering a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors. These cake-style doughnuts are spiked with cider and dusted in cinnamon sugar, providing a comforting treat.

Often enjoyed during peak foliage season, they are a favorite at local farms and markets.

For those visiting New Hampshire, apple-cider doughnuts offer a taste of the state’s seasonal beauty and culinary tradition, making them a must-try for anyone seeking a cozy, nostalgic treat.

30. New Jersey — Pork roll (Taylor ham)

© Serious Eats

New Jersey’s pork roll, or Taylor ham, is a breakfast staple that’s both savory and satisfying. Served in sandwiches with egg and cheese, it provides a hearty start to the day.

This beloved New Jersey rite of passage is enjoyed by locals who appreciate its rich, salty flavor. Often found in diners across the state, it’s a taste of New Jersey’s culinary identity.

For those exploring the Garden State, pork roll offers a delicious glimpse into local traditions and breakfast culture.

31. New Mexico — Green-chile cheeseburger

© New Mexico Magazine

New Mexico’s green-chile cheeseburger is a spicy, flavorful delight. Topped with roasted Hatch chiles and cheese, it offers a unique twist on the classic burger.

The question of “red or green?” chile is an official state symbol, reflecting New Mexico’s vibrant culinary culture. This burger captures the essence of Southwestern flavors, offering a taste that’s both bold and satisfying.

For those seeking a spicy adventure, the green-chile cheeseburger is a must-try, embodying New Mexico’s pride and passion for chiles.

32. New York — New York-style pizza

© Bon Appetit

New York-style pizza is the city’s most democratic meal, offering thin, foldable slices that are a staple in every pizzeria. Known for its crispy crust and simple toppings, it’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

The ease of grabbing a slice on the go makes it a quintessential part of New York life. Whether enjoyed plain or with toppings like pepperoni, it’s a taste of the city’s bustling, vibrant energy.

For those in the Big Apple, New York-style pizza is a must-try, offering a delicious slice of urban culture.

33. North Carolina — Whole-hog barbecue

© Barbecue Bros

North Carolina’s whole-hog barbecue is a testament to the state’s rich culinary tradition. This all-night pit tradition yields impossibly tender, chopped pork, served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce.

Often enjoyed at local festivals and gatherings, it reflects the community spirit and love for barbecue. The smoky, flavorful pork is a delight for meat lovers.

For those exploring Southern cuisine, North Carolina’s whole-hog barbecue offers a taste of heritage and hospitality that’s truly special.

34. North Dakota — Knoephla soup

© Serious Eats

North Dakota’s knoephla soup is a comforting bowl of creamy delight. This German-Russian dish features tender chicken, potatoes, and soft dumplings, offering a hearty meal.

Often enjoyed during chilly prairie winters, it provides warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Knoephla soup reflects the state’s immigrant heritage and love for simple, comforting foods.

For those seeking a taste of North Dakota’s culinary tradition, this soup offers a delicious embrace of the state’s cultural roots and cozy, home-cooked goodness.

35. Ohio — Cincinnati chili

© Brown Eyed Baker

Cincinnati chili is Ohio’s spicy, savory specialty, offering a unique take on traditional chili. This dish features spiced meat sauce (with hints of cinnamon and clove) served over spaghetti or hot dogs.

Order it “3-way” with cheese, onions, and beans for the full experience. Known for its rich, aromatic flavors, it’s a favorite at local diners.

For those exploring Ohio’s culinary scene, Cincinnati chili provides a taste of creativity and tradition that’s both comforting and intriguing.

36. Oklahoma — Smoked bologna

© San Antonio Express-News

Oklahoma’s smoked bologna, affectionately known as “Oklahoma prime rib,” is a barbecue staple with a twist. Thick slices of bologna are smoked to perfection, offering a savory, smoky flavor.

Often served with barbecue sauce and white bread, it’s a favorite at local barbecues and gatherings. This dish reflects Oklahoma’s love for bold, hearty flavors.

For those exploring the state’s barbecue scene, smoked bologna provides a unique and delicious taste of Oklahoma’s culinary creativity and tradition.

37. Oregon — Marionberry pie

© Gumbo

Oregon’s marionberry pie is a summer delight, showcasing the state-bred blackberry hybrid. This pie features a juicy, sweet-tart filling encased in a golden lattice crust.

Often enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a taste of Oregon’s fruitful bounty. The marionberry’s unique flavor is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

For those seeking a taste of Oregon’s culinary landscape, marionberry pie provides a delicious and refreshing experience that’s hard to resist.

38. Pennsylvania — Philly cheesesteak

© Only In Your State

The Philly cheesesteak is Pennsylvania’s iconic sandwich, offering a flavorful combination of shaved beef, onions, and cheese on a long roll. Born in Philadelphia, it’s a beloved staple in the city’s culinary scene.

Often debated for the best cheese choice—Provolone, American, or Cheese Whiz—it reflects the city’s passionate food culture. Each bite provides a satisfying blend of savory flavors and textures.

For those visiting Pennsylvania, a Philly cheesesteak is a must-try, offering a delicious taste of the city’s vibrant and hearty culinary tradition.

39. Rhode Island — Stuffies (stuffed quahogs)

© Food & Wine

Rhode Island’s stuffies are a savory treat that captures the state’s maritime flavors. These stuffed quahogs are filled with seasoned crumbs and linguiça, providing a delicious bite.

Often enjoyed as an appetizer, they are a favorite at local seafood restaurants. Stuffies reflect Rhode Island’s rich Portuguese heritage and love for coastal cuisine.

For those exploring the Ocean State’s culinary scene, stuffies offer a taste of tradition and innovation that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

40. South Carolina — Shrimp and grits

© Cameron’s Seafood

Shrimp and grits is South Carolina’s Lowcountry magic, offering a delightful combination of sweet local shrimp and creamy, buttery grits. This dish embodies the state’s coastal charm and culinary excellence.

Often garnished with bacon or green onions, it provides a rich, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Loved by locals and visitors alike, shrimp and grits are a staple in Southern kitchens.

For those seeking a taste of South Carolina’s culinary heritage, this dish offers a delicious and comforting experience that’s truly special.

41. South Dakota — Chislic

© Argus Leader

Chislic is South Dakota’s beloved bar-and-festival food, offering skewered cubes of red meat that are either grilled or fried. This dish is a favorite among locals for its savory, flavorful bite.

Often enjoyed with a dipping sauce, chislic reflects the state’s love for simple, hearty foods. It’s a dish that brings people together at local gatherings and events.

For those exploring South Dakota’s culinary scene, chislic provides a taste of tradition and community that’s both satisfying and delicious.

42. Tennessee — Nashville hot chicken

© Southern Living

Nashville hot chicken is Tennessee’s fiery delight, offering a spicy kick with every bite. This cayenne-lacquered fried chicken is served on white bread with pickles, providing a bold, flavorful experience.

Loved by heat seekers, it’s a staple in Nashville’s vibrant food scene. The perfect balance of heat and flavor makes it a must-try for those seeking culinary adventure.

For those exploring Tennessee’s culinary landscape, Nashville hot chicken offers a taste of spice and tradition that’s both exhilarating and satisfying.

43. Texas — Central-Texas brisket

© Texas Barbecue

Central-Texas brisket is Texas’s barbecue calling card, offering a tender, smoky delight that’s hard to resist. Rubbed with salt and pepper, the beef is smoked low and slow over post oak, providing a rich, flavorful experience.

Often served with barbecue sauce and pickles, it’s a favorite at local barbecue joints. Each slice reveals a beautiful smoke ring, a testament to the pitmaster’s skill.

For those exploring Texas’s barbecue scene, Central-Texas brisket offers a taste of tradition and excellence that’s truly exceptional.

44. Utah — Fry sauce

© Life In The Lofthouse

Utah’s fry sauce is a beloved condiment, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with fries. This ketchup-mayo-based dip was popularized by Arctic Circle in the 1950s, becoming a staple in Utah’s dining scene.

Often enjoyed at local diners and fast-food joints, fry sauce provides a unique twist on traditional condiments.

For those exploring Utah’s culinary culture, this sauce offers a taste of creativity and tradition that’s both delightful and satisfying.

45. Vermont — Apple pie with sharp cheddar

© Little City Garden and Table

Vermont’s apple pie with sharp cheddar is a Yankee tradition, offering a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. This saying, “apple pie without cheese is like a kiss without a squeeze,” captures the essence of this classic pairing.

The sharp cheddar adds a delightful contrast to the sweet, spiced apples, providing a satisfying taste experience.

For those exploring Vermont’s culinary landscape, apple pie with cheddar offers a taste of tradition and innovation that’s both comforting and delicious.

46. Virginia — Peanut soup

© The Good Hearted Woman

Virginia’s peanut soup is a colonial-era dish with rich African roots, offering a creamy and nutty flavor that’s both warming and satisfying. Still ladled at historic Williamsburg restaurants, it reflects the state’s diverse culinary heritage.

Often garnished with chopped peanuts, this soup provides a taste of history and hospitality.

For those exploring Virginia’s culinary traditions, peanut soup offers a unique and delicious experience that captures the essence of the Old Dominion’s rich food culture.

47. Washington — Oysters

© OpenTable

Washington’s oysters are a prized delicacy, offering a taste of the Pacific Northwest’s bountiful waters. From farmed Kumamotos to native Olympias, these oysters provide a briny, sweet flavor that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Often enjoyed on the half shell with lemon and mignonette, they are a favorite at local seafood restaurants.

For those seeking a taste of Washington’s maritime heritage, oysters offer a delicious and luxurious experience that’s truly special.

48. West Virginia — Pepperoni rolls

© Allrecipes

West Virginia’s pepperoni rolls are an Italian-American coal country invention, offering a savory, portable snack that’s perfect for on-the-go. These soft rolls are filled with pepperoni slices, providing a flavorful bite.

Often enjoyed with marinara sauce for dipping, they reflect the state’s immigrant heritage and love for hearty, satisfying foods.

For those exploring West Virginia’s culinary scene, pepperoni rolls offer a taste of tradition and innovation that’s both convenient and delicious.

49. Wisconsin — Fried cheese curds

© Kylee Cooks

Wisconsin’s fried cheese curds are a squeaky delight, offering a taste of the state’s rich dairy heritage. These fresh curds are battered and fried to golden perfection, providing a crispy, savory bite.

Often served with ranch dipping sauce, they are a favorite at fairs and local eateries. For dessert lovers, the state pastry is kringle.

For those exploring Wisconsin’s culinary scene, fried cheese curds offer a taste of tradition and creativity that’s both delicious and satisfying.

50. Wyoming — Bison burger

© Cooking On The Ranch

Wyoming’s bison burger is a frontier classic, offering a leaner, deeply flavorful alternative to beef. This burger is often topped with lettuce, tomato, and cheese, providing a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and delicious.

Embodying the spirit of the Wild West, bison burgers reflect Wyoming’s love for bold, natural flavors.

For those seeking a taste of Wyoming’s culinary heritage, a bison burger offers a unique and delicious experience that captures the essence of the state’s rugged landscape and pioneering spirit.