Spanish Food (from Spain) Is Seriously Under-appreciated in the USA

Spanish Cuisine from Spain Is Underrated in the USA

Has anyone else noticed this? I’ve traveled extensively across the USA, and aside from a few upscale restaurants on the coasts, it seems like Spanish food is rarely on the menu. Was there not a significant influx of Spanish immigrants to the U.S.? Plus, considering our large Latin population, it’s surprising that we don’t see more Spanish restaurants, especially since the Mexican and Latin culinary scene is so competitive.

I’m curious, where in the USA has Spanish cuisine had the greatest impact?


Comments

One response to “Spanish Food (from Spain) Is Seriously Under-appreciated in the USA”

  1. You’re absolutely right—Spanish cuisine often gets overshadowed by other Latin American flavors in the U.S. Despite the rich variety of dishes Spain offers, like tapas, paella, and jamón ibérico, it doesn’t enjoy the same level of notoriety as Mexican or even South American fare.

    One reason might be the immigration patterns you mentioned. While there were Spanish settlers in areas like Florida and the Southwest, large waves of Spanish immigration didn’t occur until the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which might not have created the same culinary footprint compared to other Latin American countries.

    Culinary influence can be seen in some regions, particularly in places like Florida, where Spanish cuisine has melded with Cuban cooking, or in parts of the Southwest and California due to historical connections. Additionally, cities with strong culinary scenes like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco often have Spanish restaurants, but they may still not be as prevalent as other Latin cuisines.

    It’s interesting to think about how food trends evolve over time. With increasing globalization and a growing appreciation for diverse cuisines, I wouldn’t be surprised if Spanish food starts gaining more recognition. Have you tried any local Spanish spots? It could be worth exploring what’s available beyond the mainstream!

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