A recent survey conducted by Talker Research for HelloFresh has identified California as the state with the best food in the United States. The study, which gathered insights from 5,000 Americans evenly split by state, evaluated preferences for homemade dishes across the country. Following California, the top five states recognized for their exceptional cuisine include New York, Texas, Louisiana, and Florida.
The survey highlights the confidence Louisianans have in their culinary offerings, with an impressive 94% expressing pride in their state’s cuisine. In contrast, some states failed to impress respondents with their culinary options. These include Delaware, Indiana, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
Participants were asked to identify a dish or flavor that best represents their state. Iconic foods like New York’s pizza, California’s authentic Mexican cuisine, and Texas’s barbecue were frequently mentioned. Other states showcased unique culinary traditions, such as New Hampshire’s apple cider donuts and Utah’s beloved “fry sauce.” Ohio residents also proudly noted their signature treat, the “buckeye.”
Despite the established favorites, the survey revealed that states like Montana and Wyoming are home to residents who consider their homemade meals superior, with 77% and 76% respectively claiming better-quality home-cooked meals than those purchased.
The survey underscores the significance of food in American life. A notable 37% of respondents indicated that they intend to prioritize cooking traditions with family and friends in 2026. Additionally, 69%53% to document or record these cherished dishes. According to the findings, six out of ten Americans anticipate 2026 to be the “year of the kitchen,” particularly among those from New York (76%), South Carolina (73%), and Alabama (72%).
Currently, the average American prepares 12 meals each week, consisting of three breakfasts, four lunches, and five dinners. However, only two of these meals are typically shared with others, and the average person eats just four meals together with friends or family. On a daily basis, Americans spend approximately 67 minutes in the kitchen, totaling nearly 410 hours each year, which equates to about 17 days.
Despite the time invested in meal preparation, many Americans face distractions during mealtimes. Approximately 30% of respondents reported rarely or never having an undistracted breakfast, with similar figures for lunch (28%) and dinner (21%). Notably, respondents from Minnesota were least likely to enjoy distraction-free meals, while New Yorkers focused the most on their dining experiences, spending an average of 52 minutes eating each day.
“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. “From California shrimp tacos and Minnesota Juicy Lucy, to Louisiana gumbo and New York bagels, the dishes that define each state carry generations of family memories and cultural pride. Our survey shows that Americans are returning to the kitchen not just to cook, but to create moments of togetherness, preserve recipes, and enjoy the comfort of home-cooked meals with loved ones. In 2026, the kitchen is truly becoming a place where connection and tradition come alive.”
The research methodology involved surveying 5,000 Americans who have access to the internet. The survey, commissioned by HelloFresh, was conducted online by Talker Research from November 17 to November 25, 2025. For those interested, a link to the questionnaire is available through HelloFresh.
