World Cup fans from overseas are not only cheering on their favorite teams, but also enjoying the local cuisine in the US. Many are trying popular fast-food chains and local gems, such as In-N-Out Burger and Buc-ee’s convenience stores.

Regional Specialties

Some fans are seeking out regional specialties, like poutine in Canada and barbecue in Texas. Jack Goodwin, a soccer enthusiast from London, said the American food he has tried in Dallas, Boston, New York, and Atlanta is ‘greasy, disgusting, but absolutely glorious.’ He also noted that the portions are larger and tastier, which may contribute to the higher obesity rates in the US.

Other fans are trying chains they can’t find where they live, like Chick-fil-A. Harrison Murphy, who was traveling from London with his brother, had breakfast at a Chick-fil-A in Atlanta and said it was ‘fantastic and so cheap.’ He also praised the sauces, which are free.

Local Restaurants

Host city restaurants are eager to introduce new customers to old favorites. Paul Barker, the principal and founder of Pauli’s, a Boston restaurant known for its generously filled sandwiches and comfort food, said that fans from Scotland, Brazil, England, and elsewhere have lined up for his famous lobster rolls and taken photos with staff members.

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, found itself in the spotlight after fans from Japan and elsewhere posted on social media about their visits.

Terry Black’s Barbecue, a small Texas chain, figured authentic barbecue would be on many fans’ must-try lists. The chain started sourcing extra meat more than a month ago for its locations in Dallas and Fort Worth, which are each approximately 20 minutes from the stadium where World Cup matches are played.

Original reporting: Fort Worth, TX Sports (HLL/CB) — read the source article.