I am currently visiting the USA, and before I leave I want to try some food that is “uniquely” american - IE, you can’t really find it outside of the country.
UK stores do tend to have a “USA section” which has a small amount of sweets and other products. But I am wondering what americans specifically missed / couldn’t find in other countries.
As an example - Wendy’s as far as I’ve seen, isn’t local to the UK or at least where I live. So trying that was a “unique american food”, to me.
I’m also in Chicago at the moment, so I made sure to try a proper (real?) Chicago deep dish pizza (loved it, by the way).
Alternatively, any other suggestions of food to try?
Immediate edit - turns out Wendy’s is in some locations in the UK. I just assumed incorrectly!
Thanks for all the suggestions!!
My main recommendation would be to try biscuits and gravy. Which must sound entirely disgusting, given how differently we use those words on this side of the Atlantic. However, you are in Chicago; so, you’re not likely to find a well made version of them there. If you ever get down south, give them a try. Like most southern food, they are a heart attack on a plate, but you’ll be happy as you die.
Speaking of southern food, BBQ offers a wide selection of dishes worth trying. You may be able to find something passable in Chicago, look for a truck with a smoker/kitchen in a trailer. Chain BBQ restaurants are usually just dens of sadness and disappointment. I’m partial to pulled pork, though I also won’t pass up a smoked beef brisket. And this should be served with cornbread.
If you get any further west, In-n-Out is pretty uniquely American. Though, it’s really just a fresh burger with “American Cheese Product” and thousand island dressing. And their fries are mediocre at best. Probably worth a try as a cultural icon, but not something you’ll end up writing home about it (bring on the downvotes west-coasters).
To your east is the home of New England Clam Chowder (the cream based white one, not Manhattan/Rhode Island red/clear ones). There’s probably some decent bowls to be had there in Chicago. Just fantastic on a chill day. Just be wary of upscale restaurants trying to fancy this one up. It’s a simple classic, but some folks just can’t leave well enough alone.