For food lovers and influencers alike, viral foods are tantalizing taste buds and dominating feeds. More than just a fleeting fad, these trending foods are making a lasting impression as they push the boundaries of traditional cuisine and highlight the creativity of those bringing them to life.
The centerpiece of countless Instagram stories and TikTok videos, viral foods deliver a feast for the senses and a glimpse into a culinary world that continues to evolve and delight.
So, whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or simply in pursuit of some flavorful inspiration, look no further than these talked-about local foods.
Not Just a Fry Guy
Hot Honey Pimento Cheese Fries
This sweet-and-spicy Southern dream starts with a bed of crispy golden fries that are smothered in melty house-made pimento cheese and finished with a drizzle of hot honey. The result is Hot Honey Pimento Cheese Fries: a creamy, spicy-sweet masterpiece that hits every flavor note.
Inspired by the bold yet comforting flavors of the South, owner David Long says he “wanted to create something that felt nostalgic but with Dave’s signature twist.” The result is a regular menu staple with a loyal following.
Bold, unapologetically Southern, and just messy enough to make people say, I need this — now, David admits, “It’s perfect for sharing — though no one will blame you if you keep it all to yourself.”
streetfoodfinder.com/notjustafryguy
@notjustafryguy
Gym Tacos
Tower Nachos
Also known as “trash can nachos,” Tower Nachos make for an Insta-worthy reveal. Served from a tin can that is placed on the table, a tower of chips piled high with queso, beans, pico de gallo, lettuce, guacamole, sour cream, and peppers cascades out when the can is lifted. Chicken, carnitas, chorizo, pastor, or carne asada can be added, and tequila makes for a natural accompaniment.
Brecotea
Berries Cream Croissant
At modern Asian bakery and café Brecotea (Bread+Coffee+Tea), pastries are served warm for the best experience. The best-selling Berries Cream Croissant is no exception. The flaky croissant filled with smooth vanilla cream and fresh berries offers what co-proprietor and general manager Pam Sumkasataya considers “just the right amount of sweetness.”
Other danishes — the Blueberry Custard, Hotdog, Mango Custard, Strawberry Custard, and Danish Bread — are similarly guilt-free and not overly sweet. They also pair perfectly with tea or coffee; Sparkling Strawberry Tea makes the ideal complement to the Berries Cream Croissant.
Offering a reasonably priced and wide selection since 2019, Brecotea “aims to be the best in the country” by combining what Pam describes as “cozy presentation, premium ingredients, and a modern, Instagram-friendly style that people naturally want to share.”
cary.brecotea.com
@brecotea_cary
Cafe Soul Cups
Dubai Chocolate Crackle Latte
Cafe Soul Cups brings a taste of Korean café culture to our community, says owner Soohyun Kim: “something cozy, welcoming, with beautiful drinks and delicious desserts.”
Inspired by Soo’s daughter’s love of Dubai chocolate, the Dubai Chocolate Crackle Latte is a cold drink with a unique texture: The inside of the cup is coated with crackled chocolate, and ground pistachio nuts provide a delightful crunch with every sip.
The latte, which went viral this April, has a secret-recipe pistachio flavor, double shot of espresso, and a hint of vanilla syrup. Since then, tens of thousands of people have raved about the rich flavor and satisfying crispiness. As Soo says, “It’s not just a drink — it’s something you experience!”
cafesoulcups.com
@cafesoulcups
Vida Dulce
Crazy Watermelon
In the Triangle area for over 35 years, Vida Dulce’s Mexican dessert style is exotic and eclectic and aesthetically delightful. Not just popsicles and ice creams, “Sandia Loca,” or Crazy Watermelon, proves that fresh fruit can be just as decadent as any sweet treat — and even more photogenic. Served in a hollowed-out watermelon half, this flavorful bowl of cucumber, jicama, mango, and watermelon (plus much more on top) flourishes before the eyes and offers great quality and quantity for the sub-$20 price point.
TapStation
2 LB Pretzel
This Apex restaurant, brewery, and first rooftop bar’s giant 2 LB Pretzel is, according to founder and managing partner Jonathan Pierce, “perfect for sharing with friends around some cold beers.” Served with kickin’ mustard and a Holt & Hops IPA beer cheese, this “social food” was designed to pair well with TapStation’s beers and is what Jon describes as “unlike any pretzel offered anywhere else.”
First-time customers are often surprised by the size and weight of the pretzel, which is presented in a pizza box. It features a hard exterior crunch and doughy interior, which makes for ideal dipping in the house-made beer cheese. This crowd-pleaser is “worth telling your friends about,” says Jon, and can also be ordered for home delivery enjoyment!
tapstationapex.com
@tapstationapex
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