10 American Fast-Food Items That Flopped Overseas & 10 You Can Only Find in America
10 American Fast-Food Items That Flopped Overseas & 10 You Can Only Find in America
All American
If you’re a fan of American brands and have wondered how they fare in international markets, then this is the list for you. From that time Subway failed in Japan to the fact that In-N-Out is a coveted American-only classic, there’s a lot to learn.
1. Domino's
Domino's is considered a pizza giant in most markets, but apparently shifting to Italy didn’t work out for them. When they opened their first locations in Milan in 2015, they struggled to attract any customers, and it became clear that Italians had no interest or need for American-style pizza.
2. Wendy's
Wendy's is known for its never-frozen burgers and delectable Frostys, but one country that has absolutely no interest in testing out their meal is the European Union. This is because the Wendy's trademark is already being used by a fish and chips shop in the Netherlands, making it impossible for Wendy's to expand.
3. McDonald's
McDonald's is essentially everywhere, but there are some places it failed, and one of those places is Iceland. After the novelty of trying the burger passed, the clientele never really amassed. After the 2008 recession, McDonald's was only driving up prices for competitors, leading to a bad taste that eventually drove them out.
4. Taco Bell
You would think Taco Bell would do great in Mexico, after all, that’s where all their inspiration comes from. But in reality, when they first opened in Mexico City in 1992, the clientele found their items confusing and difficult to understand, leading to an eventual closure in 2010.
5. Starbucks
When Starbucks opened six stores in Tel Aviv, it had a pretty good idea of its success. But it turns out the huge difference in coffee culture left the clientele feeling disconnected with the roasters. Plus, it turned out the population preferred calm sit-down coffee shops rather than Starbucks' fast-paced vibe.
6. Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A is considered one of the best chicken stores when it comes to quality and ingredients. However, it didn’t do so well when it tried to open in South Africa. This never came to fruition though, as the South African geography and challenges made investors too nervous.
7. Dunkin' Donuts
Dunkin' Donuts is an American staple offering up hot coffees and sweet treats. You would think India would have no issue adapting to it considering their sweet tooth, but they just never got around to liking coffee. Instead, preferring chai, Dunkin' Donuts was never able to take off or get much of a clientele abroad, especially when they were also considered unaffordable.
8. Burger King
Burger King has been all over the place too, which is surprising considering their lack of quality. But when it came to Vietnam, the locals just weren’t having it with their greasy taste and low-quality flavor. That being said, vendors like KFC had no issue in the Vietnamese market.
9. Subway
Ironically, Subway thought that sandwiches might just not be popular in Japan, but that’s far from the truth. Maybe the locals just didn’t care for Subway’s poor excuse for a sandwich. The steep prices, slow service, and disconnected products just weren’t worth it to the patrons who had far better options.
10. Baskin-Robbins
South Africa strikes again, this time for Baskin-Robbins. Apparently, there were far too many flavors available, which intimidated customers that preferred simpler menus. That, alongside the high prices, just led to most people ignoring and evading the company.
Now that we have talked about some international failures, here are 10 staples you can only try in America.
1. Culver's
Known mostly for their ButterBurgers, Culver's blends Wisconsin cheddar, buttery buns, and Midwestern beef to offer up a delectable burger. Of course, we can’t forget about its adored custard or cheese curds either.
2. Whataburger
A favorite for many, this burger joint stays true to its '50s flare, offering up traditional and delicious burgers that live up to size and thickness expectations. Of course, they aren’t afraid to experiment, as you can swap out Texas toast, throw in some avocados, or do whatever else to make the burger of your dreams.
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3. In-N-Out
Another burger giant, In-N-Out got its start in California in 1992 and has been going strong since. Its most famous offerings include animal-style burger and fries, which blend the mustard into the patty itself.
4. Raising Cane's
With all of its success, this company might break into international markets soon enough, but for now, it’s an American-only staple. Known for its cult-favorite Cane’s sauce, they offer up Texas toast, fried chicken, and adorable crinkle-cut fries.
5. Cook Out
Known mostly for its milkshakes, you can get authentic and thick milkshakes in a variety of flavors including cheesecake or peach cobbler. In addition to this, there are cook-out classics like barbecue pork sandwiches and cheeseburgers.
6. Jimmy John's
Essentially Subway with a bit more oomph, or a Panera Bread with more filling, Jimmy John's is a beloved sandwich chain. It places emphasis on size, offering up massive sandwiches with a variety of meat and veggie options to dress it up.
7. First Watch
If you’re in the mood for breakfast, then First Watch is the store for you. Keeping old-style flare alive, you can get delectable pancakes, waffles, and of course, the must-have breakfast sandwich. Just be ready for overflowing plates that are only semi-healthy.
8. Dog Haus
Despite the use of “Haus,” Dog Haus is actually a California brand that started out in 2010. It’s actually surprising that fast food hot dog chains aren’t a super popular thing yet. But this chain offers all-beef hot dogs in a variety of dressings and flavors.
9. Iceberg Drive Inn
You have to be ready for some of the thickest milkshakes of your life if you’re visiting this chain. After all, it was started by an ice cream salesman who decided to offer up burgers, hot dogs, and onion rings on the side.
10. Del Taco
Del Taco is more Cali-Mex than actually Mexican, but you can still get plenty of delicious offerings from this blended chain. From a variety of tacos and burgers to try, just be sure to get your hands on the loaded fries and sauce too.
