Culture

Red, White, and Burger

In my travel experience, I have found that one of the best
ways to learn about and experience a new culture is by trying the typical cuisine
of that region or country. When traveling to the US, sampling the local food
should definitely be on your “to do “list. If you’re just visiting
the United States you might be thinking : America has its own cuisine?? Yes, as
much as we do love the food of other cultures ( ex: Mexican, Italian, Chinese)
America has a few dishes that are classically American. To get you started, here is a list of a few
USA favorites for Americans and tourists alike. 

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when thinking
about American food? The burger. A classic meal that originated in the 1800s
right here in the good ol’ U S of A. There is some debate as to who actually created the first hamburger
but virtually no debate as to whether or not they’re delicious. The popularity
of the hamburger (no, not only in the US but all over the world) since its
creation speaks for itself. My pick for a must try burger in Boston
is Boston Burger Company on Boylston Street.When I went recently there was SO MANY different burgers on the menu it was difficult to decide on just one…but in the end I think I made the right choice (see picture above). They even have a burger topped with mozzarella
sticks, fried mac and cheese, onion rings, bacon, and BBQ sauce. If that
doesn’t scream America then I don’t know what does. 

 

The hot dog – commonly coupled with the burger- was created
in the US thanks to German immigrants. While Coney Island is the original home of the hot dogs that we know and love today, Boston offers many worthwhile
renditions of this American classic – and no I’m not referring to the $20
Franks at Fenway Park. Instead, I would opt for a real outdoor BBQ at Formaggio’s Kitchen. Every Saturday from 11 am the
restaurant hosts a BBQ outside of their Cambridge location with not only hot dogs but also smoked meat sandwiches, ribs and corn bread. The best part
is Formaggio’s hot dogs are all beef, not that mystery concoction of meats you
sometimes find in grocery stores, so you don’t have to feel bad post devouring
one Saturday afternoon. Speaking of eating hot dogs on Saturdays…THIS Saturday
(July 23rd) is National Hot Dog Day so go out and celebrate America’s favorite
cooked sausage.

A true meal is not complete without dessert, so in keeping
with the spirit of all things American I urge you to try a slice of apple pie
from Petsi Pies on Beacon Street in Somerville. All of the pies here are baked fresh daily with real ingredients, so you know they’re good. The perfect addition to an American BBQ. I like to top mine off with Vanilla ice cream, but you can do what you want. 

Clam chowder may not be a typical dish of America in
general, but it is definitely a typical dish of the New England region. There
are A LOT of places in New England to get chowder, but my recommendation in the
Boston area has to be the Barking Crab
in Seaport. Here, the food is good and the atmosphere is even better. From the
outdoor terrace you have a great view of the harbor making for an authentic New
England experience.

Pair your meals with other uniquely American things, maybe? A NASCAR race? A football game? You don’t even have to feel bad about eating all this food – consider it a learning experience. 

By Global Immersions, Inc.

Global Immersions, Inc. specializes in Boston Homestay living for individuals and customized Group Homestay Programs. Global Immersions, Inc. distinguishes itself in the industry with its commitment to building cultural awareness and fostering global understanding. We are dedicated to the advancement of living and learning opportunities that provide an in-depth understanding of U.S. culture.