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 surveyed 5,000 Americans evenly distributed across the country, focused on attitudes toward homemade dishes and regional cuisines. Following California, the survey ranked New York, Texas, Louisiana, and Florida among the top five states celebrated for their culinary offerings.
Respondents from Louisiana expressed the highest confidence in their state’s cuisine, with an impressive 94% affirming that they possess the best food. In contrast, several states received less favorable evaluations, including Delaware, Indiana, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming. These states were noted for leaving respondents unimpressed with their culinary options.
Participants were asked to identify a dish or flavor that best represents their state. Iconic choices emerged, such as New York’s pizza, California’s authentic Mexican food, and Texas’s barbecue. Some states showcased unique local specialties; for instance, New Hampshire is known for its apple cider donuts, while Utah takes pride in its “fry sauce,” and Ohio residents celebrate their “buckeyes.”
Interestingly, respondents from states like Montana (77%) and Wyoming (76%) reported having higher-quality homemade meals compared to those purchased. This highlights a trend where many Americans prioritize cooking at home, with 37% indicating that they aim to uphold culinary traditions with loved ones in 2026. Additionally, 69% of participants expressed pride when preparing traditional recipes, and 53% stated they make an effort to document these cherished dishes.
The survey also revealed that six in ten Americans anticipate 2026 to be the “year of the kitchen,” especially those from New York (76%), South Carolina (73%), and Alabama (72%). For half of the respondents, this means focusing on the tradition of shared meals with family and friends.
Currently, the average American prepares approximately 12 meals at home each week, comprising three breakfasts, four lunches, and five dinners. Notably, individuals cook only two meals weekly in the company of others, while sharing just four of those meals. On average, Americans spend about 67 minutes daily in the kitchen, culminating in roughly 410 hours annually, equivalent to about 17 days.
Despite the time and effort invested, many Americans find mealtime lacking in focus. About 30% report rarely or never having distraction-free breakfasts, with similar figures for lunch (28%) and dinner (21%). The survey identified Minnesotans as the least likely to enjoy meals without distractions, while New Yorkers prioritize 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,” remarked Michelle Doll Olson, Senior Manager of Culinary Development at HelloFresh US. She continued, “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 survey methodology involved a comprehensive online questionnaire administered between November 17 and November 25, 2025, targeting a diverse group of internet-accessible respondents. For further details, a link to the questionnaire is available through HelloFresh.
