KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Hungry historians often philosophize over whether the United States is more like a melting pot, with all the ingredients stewing together, or a tossed salad, where individual ingredients coexist to create something fresh; however, America just might be a roller grill, with different encased meats rolling through life together, yet independent of one another. Whichever metaphor applies, the mixing of different cultures and lifestyles has created varied palates from state to state, city to city and sometimes even neighborhood to neighborhood.
Pilot Flying J has cataloged the top 20 most popular food and beverage sellers by state, based on its 2017 sales data.
“It’s clear our guests have diverse tastes across the country,” said Whitney Haslam Johnson, the retailer's chief experience officer. “As a mother of three, I understand the need for variety and choice, especially on the road. Fortunately for summer travelers, Pilot Flying J’s large assortment of food and beverage offerings provide solutions for their road trip cravings, no matter what their tastes.”
Here’s a taste of the c-store eats different states are craving:
Photo courtesy of Pilot Flying J.
Something that all surveyed states could agree on is a cup of joe. Pilot Flying J’s coffee ranked among the top five food and beverage sellers in each state, according to the Knoxville, Tenn.-based retailer.
Photo courtesy of Pilot Flying J.
Despite American’s reputation as a greasy, fast-food mecca, 37 states found bananas appealing. Florida, Texas, Georgia and Indiana locations hawked more than 300,000 bananas in the past year.
Photo courtesy of Pilot Flying J.
Cheese pizza can take a seat. Pilot Flying J’s pepperoni pizza landed in the top 20 list in 36 states.
Some states are all about appetizers and sides. Minnesotans bought more egg rolls than any other state. Sides such as green beans, corn, mashed potatoes and mac and cheese are a favorite in Massachusetts.
Photo courtesy of Pilot Flying J.
Hot dogs won the top slot in Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Maryland and West Virginia.
From June to August, Pilot and Flying J Travel Centers are promoting bonus bundles, where customers can get a $1 large fountain drink or $2 pizza slice with the purchase of a fresh food item.
Based in Knoxville, Tenn., Pilot Flying J has more than 750 retail locations in 44 states.
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