11 California Foods That Aren’t Worth the Hype
California is known as the food lover’s dream, boasting fresh ingredients and a forward-looking culinary scene. The state has a knack for taking even the most basic dishes and making them must-tries, from avocado toasts to trendy food trucks. However, just because something’s popular doesn’t mean it’s worth the hype.
Let’s dig deeper into some of the Golden State’s most buzzed-about foods that may not be all they’re cracked up to be.
Avocado Toast
While this breakfast darling might be pretty to look at, it is often overpriced and underwhelming. You’re getting half an avocado smeared on basic bread and a sprinkle of seasoning for $15 or more. Yes, avocados are good for you, but you can make the same thing at home for a fraction of the cost, and it will probably taste better too.
California Rolls
California rolls are more of a gateway sushi thanks to their crab stick, cucumber, and avocado filling. These sushi impostors are a far cry from real Japanese cuisine. Save your sushi budget for something more authentic and unique.
Acai Bowls
Everyone goes crazy for their purple base and colorful toppings, but most acai bowls are just sugary smoothies in disguise. What you’re buying is usually less of a healthy food and more of a dessert masquerading as healthy unless you make it yourself with wholesome ingredients.
Wine Country Charcuterie Boards
When you head to Napa or Sonoma, you’ll see charcuterie boards that look like art. However, here’s the thing, paying $30 for a handful of crackers, some slices of cheese, and some cured meats isn’t exactly a steal. According to Budget Your Trip, visitors to Napa Valley spend an average of $108 per person per day on food—so maybe skip the cheese platter for something a little more memorable, like a wine tasting.
Sourdough Bread from Tourist Traps
Not all San Francisco sourdough loaves meet the standard. Bread on the touristy spots around Fisherman’s Wharf is heavy on nostalgia, and light on flavor. True sourdough fans realize that the big names can be skipped, and a local bakery is the place to buy a loaf that is worth savoring.
Farmers’ Market Honey
Farmers’ markets in California are delightful, but there’s more to say about honey jars with fancy labels. Though it sounds good to be local and organic, Food Safety News reported that more than 75 percent of honey sold in the U.S. has been processed enough to kill the natural nutritional benefits of raw honey. Sometimes, for the real deal, it’s better to support a small beekeeper directly.
Street Tacos at Tourist Hotspots
Everyone knows California has a taco scene, but not all tacos are created equal. In tourist-heavy areas, you often pay premium prices for tacos that don’t taste that great. To get the best experience, avoid the crowded spots and go to a local taqueria, where the tortillas are fresh, the fillings are authentic, and it’s good for your wallet.
Boba Drinks
Boba tea has become the newest craze on the West Coast, but not all cups are worth the hype—or the price. Some drinks are more of artificial flavoring than actual tea, and the tapioca pearls can be anything from chewy to downright rubbery. If you are a fan, seek out a trusted spot or you will be disappointed.
Vegan Burgers
While California’s plant-based scene is booming, not every vegan burger is a hit. A dissatisfying texture, and overly processed, sodium-packed patties often result in disappointment and regret in consumers.
Expensive Organic Produce
California’s organic fruits and veggies are fresher than fresh, we get it. However, you can’t always justify paying double the price at a fancy LA grocery store. Organic doesn’t always translate to better tasting or more nutritious as stated by the American Heart Association. A local farmer’s market usually provides better quality at a friendlier price.
Kale Chips
Kale chips are marketed as a healthy alternative to potato chips, but most store-bought versions are so salty or overly seasoned. Instead of dropping $7 on a tiny bag of kale, throw some kale in olive oil, bake it at home, and have a fresh, flavorful snack that doesn’t have you questioning your life choices.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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