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!!
I'd generally advise avoiding chain restaurants like Wendy's now that you've tried it. There's differences, but if you've had one, you've had them all.
Not sure what other parts of the country you're visiting, but keep an eye out for small, local diners and ask if they have any house specials.
If you see a local place that's also known as a "truck stop diner", stop and eat (unless it's a chain like Waffle House, IHOP, etc. Not that those are bad, they're just not as good as a local eatery). My recommendation would be something off the breakfast menu (which is typically available at all hours). Bacon, eggs, pancakes, etc. Usually they'll give you massive portions, they're delicious, and fairly inexpensive.
Some of the best food I've ever had was from a local truck stop diner that sadly went out of business shortly after COVID.
They should go to a Waffle House just for the cultural experience, ideally after midnight to see the real wild shit
They’re in Chicago currently so they’d either have to drive to Missouri or Indiana for Waffle House which would be a crazy move
Scattered, smothered and covered with fried eggs over medium or sunny side up is worth it.