The World Cup may be the best birthday gift given to America as fans fall in love during their visit

International visitors to the 2026 FIFA World Cup are discovering America through its shopping as well as food and dining culture, turning meals and visits to Walmart into viral social media moments before even stepping into stadiums. The diplomatic power of specifically American food has become a breakout star of World Cup content online, with thousands of tourists obsessing over their first tastes.

From massive trays of traditional Texas barbecue to late-night orders at Waffle House, fans are sharing videos of free refills, fast food chains, and regional deli sandwiches. 

According to ABC News, one Swedish influencer wrote on X, “I feel like I’m living in a movie,” while simply holding snacks from a gas station: a Twinkie and a bag of Buffalo Blue Cheese Combos.

Subscribe to Chicago Star’s Weekly City Buzz Newsletter

Chain restaurants become rites of passage

For many international visitors, trying brands like Taco Bell, Raising Cane’s, and Chipotle is a rite of passage rooted in years of seeing them in pop culture. “Long before they arrive in the U.S., they’ve seen the brand show up across movies, social media and pop culture, making that first order part of the experience they’ve been looking forward to,” said Taylor Montgomery, global chief brand officer at Taco Bell, per ABC News.

In a TikTok video that gained over 400,000 views, Scottish tourist Erin O’Connell tried Raising Cane’s in Boston, calling it “10 out of 10” and adding, “The sauce is delish,” ABC News reported. 

Meanwhile, a German fan known as @FreddyLA7 on X—and possibly the most well-known after going viral—documented eating at Buffalo Wild Wings, garnering more than 2.7 million views, ABC News confirmed.

More than just a love for food in America

The same German soccer fan, Freddy, caught the country’s attention ahead of the World Cup game starting earlier this month from his posts highlighting his trip across America’s South. According to Fox News, Freddy particularly enjoyed his time in Georgia, where he stumbled upon a Bavarian village in Helen and fell in love. Freddy also made his way to Walmart for some shoe shopping, reports say.

Per a separate Fox News article, Freddy was warmly welcomed into Louisiana by a handmade sign that someone posted on the state line, showing how much positive attention the fan had amassed. 

Another user on X called @utddahnny shared Freddy’s fondness for America, posting, “We were lied to about the United States,” per Fox News.

In another report posted by Fox News, X user @shaunvlog_ shared, “When the Scots discover Buc-ee’s in America,” followed by a heart-eyes emoji. The article noted his description of the store, calling it “a gas station mixed with Disney World wrapped in a gift shop.”

Read more on Chicago Star

• Amazon Prime Day 2026 arrives, and all of Wall Street is watching as sales are expected to surge

• Broadway comes to Chicago! Idina Menzel, who played Elphaba in “Wicked,” debuts at Lyric Opera

• Lincoln Park Zoo announces birth of an endangered Grevy’s zebra, the sixth foal of Mom Adia 

• New innovation for Chicago’s oldest industry: Robotics demand surges for meatpacking in Illinois

• LiveLaunch helps online brands transition offline with opening of new Fulton Market retail hub

Do non-Americans love America more than Americans?

YouTuber Anton Daniels posted several video compilations showcasing the love that international fans have for America after visiting during the World Cup. In one video, Europeans mention wishing they were born in the United States. In another video, some point out the negative feedback received from Americans themselves after saying how much they loved being in America.

In a more specific video about Walmart, international visitors detail their awe when visiting the retailer, saying how big it is and how the store has just about everything. 

While some Americans may argue that it can be easier for outsiders to come in and appreciate the country more without living the day-to-day, it does give the chance for Americans to pause and consider what they’re saying. Perhaps capitalism and big industries (food, medicine, etc.)—while it’s definitely possible to say they can have their downsides if not used in balance—can ultimately be a very good thing and provide the element of choice, something not all countries are given. After all, freedom of choice is exactly what being American stands for.

The United States is hosting the tournament alongside Canada and Mexico, and fans are confirming the nation is putting on a good show. These positive reactions from neutral outsiders challenge self-loathing narratives, proving that Americana remains compelling globally. 

The World Cup is not just about soccer—it’s introducing the world to uniquely American experiences.