Southern California has some of the best produce, most delicious restaurants, and fun street foods. How many things from this list of Southern California foods have you tried?

10 Southern California Foods to Try

#1: Animal style In-N-Out

What is the first thing most Southern Californians do after coming back from vacation? They go to In-N-Out! In-N-Out has a very simple menu–burgers, fries, and milkshakes–but there is a whole “secret menu” of options, like the Animal Style burger (a cheeseburger with grilled onions). Check out In-N-Out’s “Not-so-secret-menu” on its website for other options, like the grilled cheese for vegetarians.

It is difficult to describe the love that Californians have for In-N-Out. The company began in Irvine and Southern Californians are very proud of this; in fact, most Southern Californians will say that this is the #1 food they miss when traveling! In-N-Out expanded into other states, but the growth was slow: In-N-Out never freezes its products, so the company has to build a center to ship its products before it can expand.

#2: Avocado toast

Californians put avocado on everything: you will see it on breakfast menus with eggs, on burgers, in salads, in smoothies, and even in desserts. Avocado toast might sound simple, but every cafe or restaurant has its own version. It’s the perfect (healthy) snack!

#3: Breakfast burritos

Anything can go in a burrito (some people even add french fries!). Try a breakfast burrito with eggs, potatoes, cheese, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or chorizo (a spicy Mexican sausage). Delicious!

#4: Disneyland churros

There is something special about Disneyland churros. We don’t know what makes them so special or so tasty, but be sure to try one when you visit the “happiest place on earth!”

#5: Donuts

Donuts were once the breakfast food that people brought to office parties or school events. For years, not much changed about the donut: at most donut and pastries shops, there were always the same several options (like sprinkle donuts or maple-glazed).

Recently, everything has changed. Donuts are back in style and becoming more and more fancy. Check out the donut shops in your neighborhood and you will see some inventive flavors!

#6: Fish tacos

Some people who visit Southern California are surprised to see fish in tacos. We promise, they’re delicious! Try your taco with grilled or fried fish and be sure to add the one topping Californians love: avocado!

#7: French dip sandwich

The French dip sandwich originated in Southern California, so you must try one while you are living here! What IS a French dip sandwich? It is a French baguette with roasted beef. On the side is the sauce (“jus”) that you can use to dip the sandwich in.

#8: Frozen bananas

Frozen bananas are a tasty treat on a hot day in Southern California. Have you tried one? They are also famous because of the show Arrested Development, which was filmed in Southern California.

#9: Poke

Poke (pronounced “po-kay”) is a traditional Hawaiian dish of raw fish served in a bowl with rice and/or vegetables and a tasty sauce. It’s like sushi in a bowl! There are many types of poke bowls and poke restaurants: this dish has become very popular lately.

#10: Tacos al pastor

Tacos al pastor are traditional Mexican street tacos of pork with grilled pineapple. Food trucks often serve them: check out the food trucks and street vendors in your neighborhood and try some!

 

Further learning

Use these questions for discussion or answer them in writing.

1. What is your favorite food?
2. Who cooks this food best?
3. Have you tried any of the foods on this list?
4. Are there any foods on this list that you would not try? Why or why not?
5. Which of these foods on this list is the most appealing to you? Why?
6. If someone came to your hometown, what are some dishes you would recommend?
7. What are some types of fast food in your country?
8. Describe one food memory you have.
9. What is the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?
10. If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?