Food might be one of the most subjective things in life, but some dishes just seem to have mass appeal.
No matter where you’re from, there are certain comfort foods, guilty pleasures, and timeless classics that people all over the world can agree on. Whether it’s sweet, savoury, crispy, or cheesy, these are the foods that win people over time and time again. And yes, while there are always going to be outliers who insist they don’t actually like these things, they’re definitely in the minority here!
1. Pizza
Few foods are as universally loved as pizza. Whether it’s a classic margherita, a loaded meat feast, or a simple slice of New York-style thin crust, pizza is always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of melted cheese, rich tomato sauce, and crispy dough is hard to beat. Every culture has put its own spin on pizza, from deep-dish in Chicago to wood-fired Neapolitan style. Even if toppings spark endless debates (pineapple, anyone?), pizza itself is loved everywhere.
2. French fries
Chips, fries, frites — whatever you call them, crispy golden fries are one of the most universally appreciated foods. Whether they’re thick-cut and fluffy or thin and crispy, they make the perfect side dish, snack, or even main meal when loaded with cheese, gravy, or chilli. Fries are so widely loved that almost every cuisine has its own take, from poutine in Canada to loaded chilli fries in the US. No matter how they’re served, there’s something irresistible about a perfect batch of fries.
3. Chocolate
Milk, dark, white, or filled with caramel and nuts — chocolate is loved by almost everyone. From high-end artisanal brands to a simple bar of the cheapest stuff, it’s one of the most universally enjoyed sweet treats. Chocolate’s popularity goes beyond just eating it on its own. It’s the key ingredient in countless desserts, from brownies to hot chocolate, proving that anything with chocolate in it is almost guaranteed to be a hit.
4. Ice cream
On a hot day, few things are as satisfying as ice cream. Even in the cold, it still has a universal appeal. Whether it’s a simple scoop of vanilla, an elaborate sundae, or a classic cone from the local ice cream truck, there’s a flavour and style for everyone. Every country has its own version of frozen desserts, from Italian gelato to Thai rolled ice cream. No matter how it’s made, ice cream remains one of the most universally loved foods in the world.
5. Garlic bread
Bread is already great, but add garlic and butter, and it becomes something people can’t resist. Whether it’s served as a side with pasta, turned into cheesy garlic bread, or eaten straight from the oven, it’s always a winner. There’s something about the combination of crispy bread, melted butter, and the unmistakable flavour of garlic that makes it a go-to favourite worldwide.
6. Sushi
Once considered a niche food, sushi is now one of the most widely loved dishes in the world. From traditional nigiri and sashimi to more modern, fusion-style sushi rolls, it’s become a global favourite. Even people who aren’t keen on raw fish can get behind vegetarian sushi, tempura rolls, or cooked options like eel and crab. It’s fresh, delicious, and offers endless variety, which is why it has such widespread appeal.
7. Burgers
There’s a reason why burgers are found in almost every corner of the world. Whether it’s a classic cheeseburger, a gourmet Wagyu beef burger, or a plant-based alternative, they always hit the spot. The best thing about burgers is their versatility. They can be dressed up or down, made with different types of meats or veggie fillings, and served with countless toppings, making them one of the most universally adaptable foods.
8. Pasta
Pasta is one of those foods that brings instant comfort. Whether it’s spaghetti Bolognese, creamy carbonara, or a simple bowl of buttered pasta, it’s loved by people of all ages. With so many shapes, sauces, and styles, pasta works for any occasion. From a quick midweek meal to an elegant Italian feast, it’s one of the most universally loved and endlessly customisable foods.
9. Cheese
While not technically a dish on its own, cheese is so widely loved that it deserves a place on the list. From gooey melted cheese on a pizza to a carefully curated cheeseboard with wine, it’s a food that people can’t seem to get enough of. Every country has its own speciality, from creamy French brie to strong British cheddar and spicy Mexican queso. Whether it’s eaten alone or added to another dish, cheese makes everything better.
10. Roast chicken
A perfectly roasted chicken, seasoned with herbs and cooked until golden and crispy, is one of the simplest yet most universally adored meals. It’s a staple in Sunday lunches, special dinners, and comfort food menus worldwide. Whether it’s served with roast potatoes and vegetables, turned into a chicken sandwich, or shredded for tacos, roast chicken is one of those foods that rarely gets turned down. Obviously, this one doesn’t apply to vegans and vegetarians.
11. Tacos
Tacos are one of the most beloved foods across the world. Whether they’re filled with spicy beef, grilled fish, or fresh vegetables, the combination of soft tortillas, flavourful fillings, and toppings like guacamole and salsa make them hard to resist. Part of their appeal is how easy they are to customise. Everyone can make their own just the way they like it, which is why they’re loved across different cultures and food preferences.
12. Doughnuts
Few people can resist a fresh, warm doughnut. Whether it’s a classic ring doughnut covered in sugar, a jam-filled one, or something fancier with icing and sprinkles, they always go down well. Doughnuts have been reinvented in countless ways, from mochi doughnuts in Japan to churros in Spain, proving that fried dough in any form is something people will always love.
13. Fried rice
Rice is one of the most widely eaten foods in the world, and fried rice takes it to another level. Whether it’s a simple egg fried rice, a spicy Thai version, or a savoury Chinese-style dish, it’s a staple that people never seem to get tired of. Fried rice is great because it works with almost anything — chicken, prawns, vegetables, or even just soy sauce and garlic. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavour, making it a go-to favourite across cultures.
