Top 10 Foreign Cuisines in THE US

1. Mexican

Being from California, I grew up eating Mexican food and it’s still one of my favorites. From tacos and burritos to tamales and enchiladas, Mexican cuisine is flavorful and satisfying.

According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, Mexican cuisine is the most popular foreign cuisine in the US, with 72% of respondents saying they enjoy it.

2. Italian

Who doesn’t love pizza and pasta? Italian cuisine has become a staple in the US and it’s not hard to see why. From traditional spaghetti and meatballs to gourmet pizzas with unique toppings, Italian food is always a crowd-pleaser.

In a recent study by the International Food Information Council Foundation, Italian cuisine was found to be the second most popular foreign cuisine in the US, with 32% of respondents saying they eat it regularly.

3. Chinese

Chinese food is a classic in the US, with many popular dishes like General Tso’s chicken and lo mein being household names. With its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors and variety of dishes, Chinese cuisine is always a good choice for a night in.

In the same National Restaurant Association survey, Chinese cuisine was found to be the second most popular foreign cuisine in the US, with 63% of respondents saying they enjoy it.

4. Japanese

From sushi and ramen to teriyaki chicken and tempura, Japanese cuisine has something for everyone. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients and simple preparation, Japanese food is both healthy and delicious.

According to a study by the Japanese External Trade Organization, the US has the largest market for Japanese cuisine outside of Japan, with sales of Japanese food products reaching $2.7 billion in 2019.

5. Thai

Thai food is known for its bold flavors and use of spices like lemongrass, ginger, and chili. From pad thai to green curry, Thai cuisine is a favorite among foodies for its unique taste and fresh ingredients.

In a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, Thai cuisine was found to be the fourth most popular foreign cuisine in the US, with 35% of respondents saying they enjoy it.

6. Indian

Indian cuisine is known for its complex flavors and use of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. From butter chicken and naan to samosas and biryani, Indian food is a must-try for anyone looking to expand their palate.

According to a study by the India Brand Equity Foundation, the US is the second-largest market for Indian food products, with exports reaching $1.3 billion in 2019.

7. Greek

Greek cuisine is all about fresh ingredients and simple preparation. From gyros and souvlaki to spanakopita and baklava, Greek food is both healthy and delicious.

In a survey by the National Restaurant Association, Greek cuisine was found to be the tenth most popular foreign cuisine in the US, with 16% of respondents saying they enjoy it.

8. Korean

Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of fermented ingredients like kimchi. From bulgogi and bibimbap to Korean fried chicken and jjajangmyeon, Korean food is a favorite among foodies for its unique taste and variety of dishes.

According to a study by the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation, the US is the third-largest market for Korean food products, with exports reaching $580 million in 2019.

9. Lebanese

Lebanese cuisine is a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, with dishes like tabbouleh, hummus, and kibbeh being popular choices. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients and healthy cooking methods, Lebanese food is both delicious and nutritious.

In a survey by the National Restaurant Association, Lebanese cuisine was found to be the sixth most popular foreign cuisine in the US, with 25% of respondents saying they enjoy it.

10. Vietnamese

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and light, healthy dishes. From pho and banh mi to spring rolls and bahn xeo, Vietnamese food is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy and flavorful meal.

According to a study by the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers, the US is the largest market for Vietnamese seafood products, with exports reaching $2.5 billion in 2019.

FAQs

• What is the most popular foreign cuisine in the US? According to a survey by the National Restaurant Association, Mexican cuisine is the most popular foreign cuisine in the US, with 72% of respondents saying they enjoy it.
• What is the second most popular foreign cuisine in the US? Italian cuisine is the second most popular foreign cuisine in the US, with 32% of respondents saying they eat it regularly, according to a study by the International Food Information Council Foundation.
• What is the most popular Asian cuisine in the US? Chinese cuisine is the most popular Asian cuisine in the US, with 63% of respondents saying they enjoy it, according to a survey by the National Restaurant Association.
• What is the most popular Middle Eastern cuisine in the US? Lebanese cuisine is the most popular Middle Eastern cuisine in the US, with 25% of respondents saying they enjoy it, according to a survey by the National Restaurant Association.
• What is the most popular African cuisine in the US? While African cuisine is not as well-known in the US as other foreign cuisines, Ethiopian cuisine has gained popularity in recent years, with dishes like injera and doro wat becoming more widely available.