A recent survey highlights the rich culinary landscape across the United States. Conducted by Talker Research for HelloFresh, the study gathered insights from 5,000 Americans about their favorite homemade dishes. Not surprisingly, states like New York, Texas, Louisiana, and Florida took the lead with their iconic cuisines.
Louisianans were particularly confident, with 94% believing they have the best food in the nation. Meanwhile, states like Delaware and Indiana didn’t fare as well, garnering less enthusiasm from respondents.
When asked to pinpoint a dish that represents their state, many went with classics. New York is famous for pizza, while California boasts delicious Mexican cuisine. Other interesting choices included New Hampshire’s apple cider donuts and Ohio’s beloved buckeyes.
Interestingly, hidden gems like Montana and Wyoming emerged as champions of home cooking; an impressive 77% of respondents from Montana and 76% from Wyoming felt they produced better meals at home than what they could buy.
The survey also revealed an intriguing trend: many Americans are valuing the tradition of cooking with family. In 2026, 37% plan to prioritize cooking together. A majority (69%) feel a pride in preparing traditional recipes, and more than half (53%) document these recipes to keep the culture alive.
Time spent in the kitchen is notable too. On average, Americans whip up twelve meals a week, yet most only share two of these with others. Distracted meals are common, with 30% of Americans rarely enjoying breakfast without interruptions.
While Minnesotans find it tough to have distraction-free meals, New Yorkers take the most time to savor their food. “Food isn’t just about sustenance; it brings people together,” says Michelle Doll Olson, Senior Manager of Culinary Development at HelloFresh. “In 2026, we see kitchens being more than just places to cook—they’re spaces for connection and tradition.”
So, what about you? What dish best represents your state? Each state’s unique flavors show how diverse our culinary identities can be, binding us through shared tastes and memories.
For more information about American eating habits and food trends, you can check the CDC report.
