A recent survey has revealed that California boasts the best cuisine in the United States, according to a study conducted by Talker Research for HelloFresh. The survey, which included responses from 5,000 Americans evenly distributed across various states, highlighted the culinary strengths of California, with New York, Texas, Louisiana, and Florida joining it in the top five rankings.
Respondents from Louisiana expressed a remarkable sense of confidence in their culinary reputation, with 94% believing their state has the finest food offerings. Conversely, several states garnered less enthusiasm from respondents regarding their culinary experiences. These states include Delaware, Indiana, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
When asked to identify a dish that best represents their state, many respondents chose iconic options. New Yorkers proudly pointed to their famous pizza, while Californians highlighted their authentic Mexican food, and Texans championed their beloved barbecue. Some states showcased unique culinary creations, with New Hampshire featuring its apple cider donuts and Utah residents celebrating their fondness for “fry sauce.” Ohioans also took pride in their signature treat, the “buckeye.”
While the survey revealed a clear preference for certain cuisines, it also indicated that Americans are keen on cooking at home. Notably, respondents from Montana and Wyoming reported having the highest average of homemade meals that surpass purchased ones, with 77% and 76% respectively affirming the quality of their home-cooked dishes.
According to the survey, food holds significant importance for many Americans, as they express a desire to maintain culinary traditions. In fact, 37% of respondents indicated that they plan to prioritize cooking with loved ones in 2026. A sense of pride in preparing traditional recipes was shared by 69% of those surveyed, with 53%62% of Americans view 2026 as the “year of the kitchen,” particularly among residents of New York (76%), South Carolina (73%), and Alabama (72%).
On average, Americans prepare 12 meals at home each week, comprising three breakfasts, four lunches, and five dinners. Of these meals, only two are typically cooked with others, and just four are enjoyed in company. The average time spent in the kitchen is approximately 67 minutes daily, translating to nearly 410 hours annually or about 17 days of cooking.
Despite the dedication to cooking, many Americans do not enjoy meals without distractions. Around 30% report rarely or never having breakfast undistracted, with similar figures for lunch (28%) and dinner (21%). Notably, residents of Minnesota are the least likely to experience distraction-free meals, while New Yorkers tend to focus the most on their dining experience. New Yorkers also spend the most time eating, averaging 52 minutes daily, whereas those from Arkansas consume their meals the fastest, with an average of 41 minutes.
“Food has always been about more than just sustenance — it’s how we connect, share stories, and pass down traditions,” said Michelle Doll Olson, Senior Manager of Culinary Development at HelloFresh US. She noted that the dishes defining each state carry generations of family memories and cultural pride. Olson emphasized that the survey demonstrates a trend of Americans returning to the kitchen not merely to cook, but to create moments of togetherness, preserve recipes, and enjoy the comfort of home-cooked meals with loved ones.
The survey was conducted online between November 17 and November 25, 2025 by Talker Research, commissioned by HelloFresh. For further insights, a link to the questionnaire is available.
