One of the greatest joys of road-tripping is discovering delicious local foods that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether it’s a roadside diner, a hidden food stall, or a family-owned eatery, these regional specialties add flavor to your journey. Here are three must-try local foods you can only truly experience on a road trip.
1. Runza – Nebraska, USA
If you’re driving through Nebraska, you can’t miss trying a Runza—a warm, breaded pocket filled with seasoned beef, cabbage, and onions. This dish, brought to the Midwest by German-Russian immigrants, has become a beloved comfort food unique to Nebraska.
Why It’s a Must-Try
Runza is the perfect road trip snack—portable, filling, and packed with flavor. The soft bread soaks up the juicy filling, making every bite satisfying. While you can find Runza at fast-food chains in Nebraska, the best ones are often homemade at small-town diners.
Where to Try It
- Runza Restaurant (Various locations in Nebraska) – The original chain serving classic Runzas.
- Sehnert’s Bakery (McCook, Nebraska) – A family-run bakery known for its fresh, homemade Runzas.
Pair it with crinkle-cut fries and a cold drink, and you’ve got the perfect roadside meal.
2. Bunny Chow – Durban, South Africa
A road trip through South Africa, especially near Durban, isn’t complete without tasting Bunny Chow—a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with rich, spicy curry. This dish has its roots in the Indian community of Durban and has become a street food favorite.
Why It’s a Must-Try
Bunny Chow is a unique fusion of South African and Indian flavors, offering a spicy, hearty meal that’s easy to eat on the go. The best part? The bread absorbs the curry, making the last bite just as delicious as the first.
Where to Try It
- Capsicum Restaurant (Durban) – Famous for its authentic Indian-style Bunny Chow.
- Little Gujarat (Durban) – A budget-friendly, vegetarian Bunny Chow hotspot.
Whether you choose chicken, lamb, or bean curry, Bunny Chow is a road trip essential for food lovers exploring South Africa.
3. Pastel de Choclo – Chile
For those driving through Chile, Pastel de Choclo is a must-try dish. This traditional meal is a corn pie filled with beef, chicken, onions, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, baked until golden brown. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly represents Chilean home cooking.
Why It’s a Must-Try
The combination of sweet corn and savory filling creates an unforgettable contrast of flavors. It’s often served in a clay dish, adding a rustic charm to the experience.
Where to Try It
- Liguria (Santiago, Chile) – A well-known spot for authentic Chilean comfort food.
- Casablanca Valley roadside eateries – Many local restaurants in the wine region serve delicious homemade Pastel de Choclo.
Whether you stop at a countryside restaurant or a city café, this dish offers a taste of Chile’s rich culinary heritage.