Anthony Bourdain had a legendary career exploring food around the world. He tried everything, from cobra heart to exotic soups. But surprisingly, he found American fast food to be the most outrageous of all.
In a 2011 interview with National Geographic, Bourdain said, “There’s really nothing more outrageous… What we do in America is appalling.” He called out items like the KFC Double Down and deep-fried macaroni and cheese. Bourdain was deeply concerned about the way Americans celebrate unhealthy eating.
However, he loved regional dishes. In Louisiana, he enjoyed rentier de cochon. He also praised Chicago-style hot dogs. While Bourdain appreciated some American food, he saw fast food as a problem. It represented a mindset of convenience and neglecting health. In a 2016 chat with Conan O’Brien, he described Johnny Rockets as serving the most “soul-destroying” meal he’d ever had.
Bourdain’s Fast Food Favorites
Interestingly, Bourdain did have some fast-food favorites. He had a soft spot for In-N-Out Burger and Waffle House. He even enjoyed mac and cheese from Popeyes. While he joked about sneaking into KFC late at night, this highlighted his larger critique. Fast food often represents a culture of laziness and poor choices.
Bourdain believed that if someone indulges in greasy food, it should be a pleasurable experience. Unfortunately, much of American fast food is unhealthy and unappetizing. He encouraged us to think about where our food money goes. “I prefer good food and supporting local businesses,” he said. For him, it was about more than just taste—it was about values.
In a 2022 survey, 60% of Americans reported eating fast food weekly, showing how ingrained this culture has become. This tells us that while Bourdain critiqued fast food, many people still embrace it as part of their lives.
