World Cup fans from around the globe have descended upon the United States, and while they came to cheer on their favorite teams, they’re also discovering the delights of North American cuisine. From Texas barbecue to New York-style deli food, visitors are raving about the local fare.

Regional Specialties and Fast Food

Many fans are making a point to try regional specialties or chains they can’t find back home, like In-N-Out Burger or Buc-ee’s convenience stores. Erling Haaland, a striker for Norway’s World Cup team, even posted a photo of himself outside Katz’s Delicatessen in New York. Others, like Harrison Murphy from London, are trying popular fast-food chains like Chick-fil-A, where he enjoyed a fantastic and affordable breakfast.

Some chains are leaning into the World Cup, with Waffle House opening a pop-up shop in downtown Atlanta to sell branded soccer balls, jerseys, and patriotic gear. Whataburger, a Texas-based chain, has found itself in the spotlight after fans from Japan and elsewhere posted about their visits on social media.

Barbecue and Local Gems

Terry Black’s Barbecue, a small Texas chain, has been preparing for the influx of World Cup fans by sourcing extra meat and planning for long lines. The chain’s senior vice president of food and beverage operations, Darien Kapture, said the crush of fans has meant a lot of extra planning, but it’s also brought a lot of excitement, like the night Argentina supporters packed the Dallas location to celebrate their team’s victory.

Visitors are also discovering local gems, like poutine, often considered Canada’s national dish, which Gary Bishop from Glasgow, Scotland, deemed ‘absolutely delicious.’ With so many World Cup visitors expressing love for ranch dressing, the Transportation Security Administration even issued a reminder to pack bottles of dressing in checked bags.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.