If you're anyone like me, you only go to the fair to eat crazy fried food and look at animals. State fair food is like the ultimate cheat day. From foot long hot dogs, to fried things like butter and Oreos, if you've been craving something really unhealthy but equally amazing, the fair is the place to go. I know I would get sad if I heard about crazy good food but missed out on it because I didn't know, so here's to hoping you get to make it to the NC State Fair to try some bomb food.
1. Deep-fried anything
If you're looking for anything an everything deep-fried, Deep Fried Heaven is the place to go. From Bloom'n Onions to deep-fried *insert favorite candy bar here*, they've got it. Personally, I'm a sucker for your classic deep-fried Oreos, but to each their own. Even if you just want some fries, Deep Fried Heaven can hook you up.
2. Gourmet apples
Apples are good, but apples covered in caramel and chocolate are even better. I love gourmet apples so hearing about Miss Debbie's specialty apples excites me. From apples covered in M&M's, to ones called Chocolate Monstrosity, there's something for everyone. Even if you can't eat it at the fair, I know I'm definitely picking one up on my way out to save for later. I mean, what better way to get my daily fruit in?
3. Cheerwine funnel cake
This NC classic soda is a fan-favorite, which makes it even better that it was put in a funnel cake. Now, I know it seems a little out there in terms of flavor, but I know i'm willing to take the leap and experience some NC tradition. Beaver Concessions is the genius behind this fried masterpiece, so be sure to check it out. There is also a Cheerwine cake at the state fair if funnel cake is not your cup of tea.
4. Bucket of Cookies
This is the second best thing to have tried in my life during my time at the fair last year. Now, when I say they give you a bucket of cookies, I mean it. Freshly baked and still warm to the touch, you can get a whole bucket of chocolate chip cookies and even a cup of milk at The Cookie House. I must say it's one of the things I'm most excited for going back to the fair.
5. Fried Pumpkin Pie
If you're like me, fall means one thing: pumpkin-flavored everything. I love anything with pumpkin spice added to a dessert. From classic pumpkin pie, to pumpkin cheesecake, to pumpkin muffins–I love it–so when I heard about the new Fried Pumpkin Pie, I was overjoyed. Original Minneapple Pie makes this fried classic and many others including fried apple pie and chocolate pie. All three come with a side of cinnamon ice cream and pure apple syrup. I can guarantee it'll be my first stop at the fair.
These are my 5 top picks for must eat foods at the NC State fair. Even if you can't eat everything there, here's my personal pro tip: Save the things you can easily transport home for last, so on your way out, you can pick them up and happily enjoy them later.
Happy eating!
