Latino food has become increasingly popular in the U.S. due to a combination of demographic shifts, cultural influences, and evolving culinary preferences. The growing Hispanic population, which represents nearly 20 percent of the population, has naturally led to a greater presence of Latino cuisine across the country.
This cuisine’s appeal lies in its diverse flavors, accessibility, and ability to adapt to various tastes, offering a wide range of dishes from Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. The millennial generation’s openness to different cultures has further driven demand for these diverse culinary options, while the food industry has responded by expanding Latino offerings in US restaurants, supermarkets, and even fast-food chains.
Mexican cuisine, the queen of the US Latino food scene
Mexican cuisine is one of the most popular types of Latino food in the U.S., featuring beloved dishes like burritos, tacos, and guacamole. Initially, the term “Tex-Mex” was used to categorize non-authentic American food that was influenced by the Mexican culinary style of those living in Texas.
Tacos, in particular, are celebrated as Mexico’s most popular dish, according to Atlas. A traditional taco consists of a tortilla filled with meat, pork, or chicken. In the United States, numerous chains like Taco Bell offer mass-produced Mexican food nationwide.
The success of Mexican cuisine can be explained by migration patterns across the U.S., but also, like Italian cuisine, by its simplicity and unique flavor. Due to its simple and quick-to-eat format, Mexican food has become a pillar of the U.S. food scene.
According to the Pew Research Center, 85 percent of counties in the United States have at least one Mexican restaurant. The few counties without such establishments typically have Mexican populations of just one percent. Notably, five states (California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois) account for a remarkable 51 percent of all Mexican restaurants in the country.
According to an analysis by the Pew Research Center, only 29 percent of counties in the United States have a Latin American restaurant that is not Mexican, and there is a growing demand for diverse culinary options, such as Cuban, Colombian, Peruvian, or Salvadoran cuisine.
Peruvian Ceviche, a rising star on the US Latino food scene
The Mexican population is not the only group influencing the gastronomic market in the United States; Peruvian cuisine has also made a significant impact, particularly with its renowned dish, ceviche.
Ceviche is a national dish of Peru that features raw pieces of fish or seafood marinated in salt, pepper, chiles, onion, and lemon juice. Its vibrant flavors and refreshing qualities have captured the attention of food lovers across the country, contributing to the growing popularity of Peruvian food in the U.S. culinary scene.
Empanadas: An iconic Latino snack
Empanadas (savory pastries filled with meat, chicken, or pork) are also popular in the United States, particularly those traditional to Argentina, Colombia, and Chile.
These delicious treats have found a spot in food trucks, where they are enjoyed as convenient fast food. However, you can also find them in gourmet restaurants, highlighting their versatility.
In these Latin American countries, the preparation and flavor of empanadas vary significantly, not only in terms of their fillings but also in the way the dough is made.
Arepas: The Colombian touch
Whether arepas—a type of corn cake—are from Venezuela or Colombia, they have become increasingly popular in the United States, especially among fast food vendors. People can find them in various forms, sometimes served plain, but often filled with a variety of ingredients.
In the U.S., there are specialized restaurants dedicated to arepas, while many Latin American restaurants also include them on their menus.
What is clear is that Latin American cuisine has made a significant impact on the U.S. gastronomic market and will continue to do so as demand grows. With the rise of new Latin American restaurants and an expanding culinary scene, this vibrant cuisine is set to become more prominent in the U.S.