Best Western American Foods
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Poke is a traditional Hawaiian dish that is made with small pieces of fresh and raw fish or seafood, which are combined with finely chopped vegetables, herbs, condiments, and seasonings. Although traditional poke uses either ahi tuna (yellowfin tuna) or octopus, the variations on this dish are endless these days, including poke with salmon, mussels, crabmeat, or oysters, as well as vegetarian versions with diced avocados.
Typical ingredients apart from the raw fish or seafood include sweet onions, garlic, shallots, scallions, sesame seeds, seaweeds, candlenuts, limu (brown algae), soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and Hawaiian sea salt. The creation of poke has been attributed to local fishermen who used to combine freshly-caught small reef fish with few seasonings such as sea salt, candlenuts, limu, and seaweed for a filling snack.
MOST ICONIC Poke
View moreMAIN INGREDIENTS
Originating from San Diego, California, this American-Mexican fusion dish consists of shoestring fries topped with carne asada, cheese (often Cotija cheese), guacamole, and sour cream. The sour cream and guacamole should be on separate sides of the container so that they don't mix.
Hot sauce is sometimes served on the side, depending on personal preferences. Carne asada fries are usually consumed after a few beers or late at night, and just by looking at the messy, caloric, and comforting combination of potatoes, cheese, meat, and dips, the connection between the two is pretty clear.
MOST ICONIC Carne Asada Fries
View moreMAIN INGREDIENTS
Carne asada burrito is a type of burrito that originates from San Diego. The dish consists of a large flour tortilla topped with carne asada meat, pico de gallo, and guacamole. The carne asada parts is made with a combination of beef (skirt or flank steak), lemon juice, lime juice, salt, pepper, and onions.
The pico de gallo consists of tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, lemon juice, lime juice, garlic powder, oregano, chili powder, and cumin, while the guacamole is made with avocados, pico de gallo, lemon juice, lime juice, and a dash of hot sauce.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Burrito
MOST ICONIC Carne Asada Burrito
View moreMAIN INGREDIENTS
Uramaki, California roll, or upside-down sushi is a unique sushi variety which has its origins disputed between Los Angeles and Vancouver, although most people claim that it was invented in California in the 1960s by a Japanese chef named Ichiro Mashita.
This sushi roll is prepared with sushi rice, nori, fish (mostly tuna or salmon), avocado, and cucumber. It differs from other sushi types because the rice is on the exterior, wrapped around nori seaweed that is in the inner part and surrounds the filling.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Sushi
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Tuna tartare is an elegant starter originating from Los Angeles. The dish is made with a combination of raw tuna, avocado, egg yolks, green peppercorns, capers, chives, tarragon, mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. It was invented in 1984 by chef Shigefumi Tachibe at the Chaya Brasserie when a few customers came in wanting beef tartare, but one of them didn't eat beef, so the chef tried tuna, and it was an instant success.
Nowadays, it's usually served as a visually attractive appetizer with crackers or toast.
Malasadas are traditional Portuguese yeast-leavened doughnuts made from eggs, flour, sugar, and milk. They are sometimes coated with cinnamon or granulated sugar. The original Portuguese malasadas don't have any holes or fillings, but the variations prepared in Hawaii do.
The popularity of malasadas in Hawaii is not accidental – Portuguese laborers from the Azores came to Hawaii in the 19th century to work in the plantations. They brought their traditional foods with them, including the malasadas, which were originally prepared in order to use all the sugar and lard in one's home before Lent.
MOST ICONIC Malasadas
View moreMAIN INGREDIENTS
Jo Jo potatoes is a traditional dish that's a staple in roadside eateries across the Pacific Northwest. Although there are many variatons, the dish is usually made with a combination of potatoes, breadcrumbs, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, thyme, mustard, paprika, and oil.
The potatoes are cut into wedges, gently heated, drizzled with oil and stirred. The breadcrumbs are mixed with paprika, mustard, salt, garlic powder, cayenne, and thyme. The potatoes are dredged in the mixture and baked or pressure-fried until golden brown and crisp.
Ever since California's days of gold mining around 1849, sourdough has been an iconic bread and a staple of the Western cuisine. It is the oldest and the most original form of leavened bread, with the oldest recorded use of sourdough dating back to the ancient Egyptians.
During the gold rush period, the Boudin family (well-known bakers from France) came to San Francisco and became famous for their unique sourdough bread. It was a hugely popular food, especially for the hungry miners who flocked into the bakery every morning, appreciating the bread for its taste and durability.
MOST ICONIC California Sourdough Bread
View moreKorean galbi includes various dishes made with beef short ribs, and this version differs in the specific cut of meat. Unlike the traditional galbi in which the ribs are sliced along the bones (also known as the English cut), in L.A. galbi, the ribs are cut across the bones into thin strips.
The ribs should be marinated, typically in different combinations of soy sauce, onions, and Asian pears, and are then grilled over charcoal. Two main theories explain the origin and the name of L.A. galbi. While the less popular claims that the name stems from the lateral cut, it has been widely accepted that the dish initially appeared among the Korean community in Los Angles.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Gui
MOST ICONIC L.A. Galbi
View moreKalua pig is a traditional Hawaiian dish where a whole pig, seasoned only with Hawaiian sea salt, is placed inside a large pit that has been dug in the ground. Heated lava rocks are placed in the pit, with the insulation cover made from banana or ti leaves.
The pig is then covered with more insulation and soil and is left to slowly roast through the day. The word kalua from the name of the dish refers to cooking in an underground pit, called imu in Hawaiian. The pig is usually served at special events, parties, and family gatherings, accompanied by steamed rice and taro root paste.
Best Western American Food Producers
Fra' Mani is a distinguished producer of premium charcuterie, based in Berkeley, California, and founded in 2006 by renowned chef and cookbook author Paul Bertolli. Inspired by Italian flavors, techniques, and traditions, Fra' Mani is dedicated to preserving time-honored culinary customs through its products.
Their philosophy is based on the belief that time is the key ingredient in crafting exceptional products and that flavor cannot be rushed. Fra' Mani uses only the highest quality ingredients, sourced from family farms committed to the land, animals, and people, without the use of antibiotics, artificial growth hormones, or meat by-products.
BEST Fra’ Mani Meat Products
Beecher's Handmade Cheese, established in 2003, is renowned for its artisanal cheesemaking in the heart of Seattle's Pike Place Market. The company was founded by Kurt Beecher Dammeier and quickly became known for its commitment to quality and natural ingredients, producing cheese free from artificial preservatives and flavor enhancers.
Beecher's is particularly famous for its Flagship cheese, a semi-hard cow's milk cheese noted for its robust, nutty flavor that is carefully aged for 15 months to develop its complex character. Beecher's operates transparently with a glass-walled facility that allows visitors to watch the cheesemaking process, emphasizing educational outreach and community engagement.
AWARDS

World Championship Cheese Contest - Best of Class
2024, 2022

World Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2021

American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place
2024, 2023, 2022, 2019, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007
BEST Beecher's Handmade Cheese Cheeses
Lucero Olive Oil is a producer based in Northern California, particularly in Corning, known for its high-quality extra virgin olive oils. The company was founded by the Lucero family, who have been growing olives for several generations. Lucero offers a variety of olive oil products including flavored oils and balsamic vinegars.
They operate a mill that processes their olives within hours of harvesting to ensure freshness. Visitors can also tour their facilities and participate in tastings.
AWARDS

Olive Japan - Gold
2023, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013

EVO IOOC - Gold Medal
2018, 2017

Terraolivo IOOC - Grand Prestige Gold
2018, 2014
BEST Lucero Olive Oil Olive Oils
Lucini Italia is an olive oil producer that sources olives primarily from Italy. Its products are known for being made from hand-picked olives and pressed within 24 hours to ensure freshness. Lucini Italia offers a variety of Extra Virgin Olive Oils, which are often praised for their rich flavor and quality.
The company also produces a range of balsamic vinegars and other gourmet food products.
AWARDS

NYIOOC - Gold
2023

Olive Japan - Gold
2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2016, 2015, 2014

Terraolivo IOOC - Grand Prestige Gold
2022, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2014
BEST Lucini Italia Olive Oils
Corto Olive Co. is an olive oil producer based in Lodi, California. The company specializes in producing high-quality, fresh olive oil primarily for culinary professionals. Corto Olive Co. employs sustainable agricultural practices and uses advanced milling technology to ensure the quality and freshness of their olive oils.
They are known for their innovative approach to olive oil storage, utilizing packaging designed to keep the oil fresh longer.
AWARDS

Olive Japan - Gold
2023, 2022, 2020, 2017, 2016

EVO IOOC - Gold Medal
2023, 2022, 2020

London IOOC - Gold
2023, 2022
BEST Corto Olive Olive Oils
Cypress Grove is a cheese producer that specializes in goat cheese varieties. The company began with a few goats to provide milk for her children. Cypress Grove gained popularity with its flagship product, Humboldt Fog, a soft-ripened cheese with a distinctive layer of edible ash.
The company has expanded its product line to include other types of fresh and aged goat cheeses.
AWARDS

World Championship Cheese Contest - Best of Class
2024, 2022, 2020, 2014, 2010

World Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2024, 2022
BEST Cypress Grove Cheeses
Bellwether Farms, located in Petaluma, California, is a family-owned creamery that produces a variety of artisan cheeses and dairy products. They are known for using traditional methods and primarily sheep's milk, along with cow's milk, to create their products.
Bellwether Farms also offers a line of yogurts alongside their cheeses.
AWARDS

American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place
2024, 2023, 2022, 2019, 2018, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2009, 2004, 2003
BEST Bellwether Farms Cheeses
The Olive Press is an olive oil producer located in Sonoma, California. It was established in 1995 and is known for offering a variety of extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars. The Olive Press operates both a mill and a tasting room where visitors can sample and purchase their products.
They also produce flavored olive oils and offer tours and educational experiences related to olive oil production.
AWARDS

Terraolivo IOOC - Grand Prestige Gold
2019, 2014

Terraolivo IOOC - Prestige Gold
2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014

Olive Japan - Gold
2014, 2013, 2012
BEST The Olive Press Olive Oils
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022

World Cheese Awards - Gold
2021

International Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023
BEST Rogue Creamery Cheeses
Harley Farms, located in Pescadero, California, is a goat dairy farm that produces a variety of award-winning goat cheeses. The farm spans nine acres and houses a herd of over 200 Alpine goats, from which the milk is sourced for cheese production.
Harley Farms offers a selection of cheeses including chevre, fromage blanc, ricotta, and feta, as well as farm tours and events for visitors.
AWARDS

American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place
2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2004, 2003, 2001, 2000
BEST Harley Farms, Inc. Cheeses
Best Western American Food Products
Lucini Premium Select Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a high-quality product crafted by Lucini Italia. Renowned for its robust and well-balanced flavor, this olive oil is made from 100% Italian olives harvested at their peak. The production process involves cold pressing the olives within 24 hours of harvest to ensure the maximum retention of flavors and nutrients.
Lucini Italia emphasizes sustainable farming practices and careful selection of olives to maintain the premium quality of their olive oil. It is often used in gourmet cooking and appreciated for its fresh, fruity aroma and slight peppery finish.
AWARDS

Olive Japan - Gold
2022

Terraolivo IOOC - Grand Prestige Gold
2021, 2019, 2014

Terraolivo IOOC - Prestige Gold
2018, 2016, 2015
Marco Polo Reserve from Beecher's Handmade Cheese is a unique cheese that incorporates both green and black cracked peppercorns, adding a distinct peppery zest to its profile. This cheese is traditionally cloth-bound and aged in open air, which intensifies its flavor by reducing moisture and enhancing its salty and rich notes.
The texture is slightly crumbly due to the aging process, and it has a robust flavor that combines nutty, earthy tones with a tangy finish. Marco Polo Reserve has been recognized in several cheese competitions, winning awards at both the American Cheese Society and the World Cheese Awards, affirming its high quality and distinctive taste.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2021

American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place
2022, 2016, 2014, 2012, 2011
AWARDS

Olive Japan - Gold
2018

Terraolivo IOOC - Prestige Gold
2018, 2016, 2015

Terraolivo IOOC - Gran Prestige Gold
2017
Tranquilidad, Bolivia 70% Dark is a chocolate bar produced by LetterPress Chocolate. It is known for its unique flavor profile derived from cacao beans sourced from the Tranquilidad Estate in Bolivia. This specific region is celebrated for its high-quality cacao, which contributes to the distinct taste of the chocolate.
The bar typically includes tasting notes that highlight a blend of fruity and nutty undertones, making it a popular choice among dark chocolate enthusiasts.
AWARDS

Academy of Chocolate - Gold
2022, 2021, 2020
AWARDS

Terraolivo IOOC - Prestige Gold
2018, 2016

Terraolivo IOOC - Gran Prestige Gold
2017, 2015

Terraolivo IOOC - Best of Country
2015
Stranahan's Diamond Peak is an annual limited-release American single malt whiskey that showcases unique cask finishes. The 2024 edition, known as the Caribbean Rum Cask, is crafted from a blend of six to nine-year-old Stranahan's whiskey, initially aged in virgin American oak barrels.
This whiskey is then finished in select rum casks from the Caribbean islands of the Dominican Republic, Barbados, and Martinique, imparting rich and complex flavors. Bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), it offers tasting notes of dried apricot and crème brûlée on the nose, bright tropical fruit flavors against a backdrop of brown sugar on the palate, and a viscous, nuanced sweetness with a hint of cola spice on the finish.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

The American Whiskey Masters - Master
2023

NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Gold
2023
AWARDS

Terraolivo IOOC - Prestige Gold
2021

EVO IOOC - Gold Medal
2020

OLIVINUS - TOP 20
2020
AWARDS

Terraolivo IOOC - Grand Prestige Gold
2021

EVO IOOC - Gold Medal
2020

Terraolivo IOOC - Best of Country
2021
Marinated Labneh by Brush Creek Creamery is a handcrafted, creamy cheese made from strained yogurt, creating a thick, spreadable consistency. This labneh is marinated in high-quality olive oil, infused with aromatic herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and sometimes spices like garlic or pepper.
The marination process enriches the cheese with a tangy, savory flavor and a luscious texture. Known for its versatility, Brush Creek Creamery’s Marinated Labneh pairs beautifully with fresh bread, crackers, or as a topping for salads, making it a delightful gourmet addition to any meal.
AWARDS

American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place
2022, 2018, 2017, 2016
Pepato is an aged sheep milk cheese made by Bellwether Farms. This farmstead cheese incorporates whole peppercorns for a distinctive, savory flavor. Pepato is aged for a minimum of 2 months, during which it develops a firm yet creamy texture and a complex taste profile.
The presence of peppercorns adds a subtle spiciness that complements the natural richness of the sheep milk. Pepato can be enjoyed on a cheese board, grated over dishes, or paired with various wines and accompaniments.
AWARDS

American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place
2018, 2013, 2009, 2004














TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 Western American Foods” list until March 20, 2025, 7,549 ratings were recorded, of which 6,692 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.