One of the best parts of travelling? The food.
And in America, it’s not just about eating—it’s an experience. Bigger portions, more choice, and so many places we don’t have back home in the UK.
We tried a real mix while we were there—from quick fast food stops to proper sit-down meals—and honestly, it was a mix of wow, that’s different, and we had to try it.
The Fast Food Stops
Panda Express
We were really curious about this one since we don’t have it in the UK.
It was quick and easy, but if we’re being honest, it didn’t quite hit the way we expected. It wasn’t bad—it just wasn’t one we’d rush back to.
Taco Bell
Another one we had to try.
It’s cheap, quick, and very much a “grab something and go” kind of place. But again, not one that stood out for us personally.
White Castle
This one surprised us.
Those little square burgers (sliders) are so different to what we’re used to, and being able to order a few and share made it feel more like a snacky meal.
Definitely one of our favourites—and one we’re glad we tried.
Shake Shack
This felt like a step up from your usual fast food.
The milkshake was one of the ones you get from bougie establishments. It tasted amazing!
Wendy’s
This one felt quite familiar but slightly fresher than some of the others.
It’s an easy option when you just want something quick without thinking too much, and it didn’t feel as heavy as some of the other fast food we tried.
Sit-Down & Restaurant Meals
Joe’s Crab Shack
This one felt like a proper holiday meal.
Seafood, messy tables, loud atmosphere—it’s one of those places where you just get stuck in and don’t worry about being neat.
Fun, busy, and very American.
Golden Corral
An experience.
If you’ve never been, imagine a buffet… but massive. There’s everything—comfort food, desserts, random bits you didn’t expect.
The kids loved being able to pick whatever they wanted (and go back again… and again).
Cracker Barrel
Completely different vibe.
Cosy, rustic, very “American road trip”. The food is proper comfort food—filling, simple, and homely.
And the shop at the front? You could spend ages in there.
IHOP
Breakfast heaven (if you like sweet things).
Pancakes, waffles, syrup—it’s a lot, but the kids loved it. It’s one of those places where everything sounds good, so you end up ordering more than you planned.
Charley’s Steak House
This felt like a proper treat meal.
A completely different pace to the rest of the trip—calmer, more relaxed, and definitely more of a sit-down experience.
The food felt higher quality, the portions were still huge, and it was nice to have a meal that wasn’t rushed or eaten on the go.
Downtown Diner (Celebration, Florida)
This was such a nice change of pace.
Quieter, more local feeling, and just a bit calmer than the big chains. It had that classic American diner feel—simple, friendly, and easy.
The Things That Felt Different
There were a few things we didn’t expect:
- Eggs are confusing – over easy, sunny side up… and sometimes a bit slimy if you don’t know what you’re ordering
- Mac and cheese is everywhere – on nearly every menu (great for our pasta-loving 7 year old)
- Butter tastes different – often whipped and slightly sweet, which felt a bit strange
- Portion sizes are huge – even “small” meals felt big
Final Thoughts
Eating in America was such a big part of the experience.
Some places we loved, some we probably wouldn’t go back to—but trying it all was part of the fun.
It’s different to the UK, sometimes in ways you don’t expect—but that’s what makes it memorable.
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