Where to eat the best fries in the world? Ideas for International Fries Day
3 minutes | July 7, 2025 | Text Klara Krysiak
Is there anyone here who doesn't love fries? We thought so too — after all, International Fries Day has become a global phenomenon for a reason! If you want to find out how fries came to be and what the most interesting places are where you can eat them, take a peek at the list below. Together, let's look for the most delicious fries in the world!
Summary for busy people
In this article, you'll find everything you need to know about International Fries Day, from the history to the best places in the world where you can try them. You'll find out where to eat traditional Belgian fries, poutine or a delicious “patat”. You'll learn about fries classics such as Fish & Chips in London, currywurst mit Pommes in Germany, and pita gyros with fries in Greece.
When is International Fries Day?
International Fries Day is celebrated every year on July 13. This is a great opportunity to appreciate this simple delicacy that has won people's hearts and to learn more about the very history of the creation of fries.
What is the history of fries?
Although the history of fries dates back hundreds of years, their exact origin is the subject of much dispute. The fries are most often considered to have originated in Belgium or France, both countries claiming the right to them.
The Belgian version says that the first fries were created as early as the 16th century in the city of Dinant. How did this happen? Initially, only fish was fried in Belgium, but due to the difficulty of accessing the frozen Meuse River, over time potatoes began to be fried as well. Belgian fries soon became a popular alternative to fish, and in the 19th century the first bar in Belgium to serve the dish was opened.
The French, on the other hand, claim that fried potatoes appeared in Paris in the early 19th century, where they first began to be sold as French fries at street stalls.
How to celebrate Fries Day? The best places for fries in the world
Elongated fried potatoes are one of the most versatile dishes in the world. Not infrequently, different regions and countries have their own unique versions of this delicacy: straight fries, Belgian fries, crinkle fries, etc. If you're wondering how to celebrate Fries Day this year, here's a list of must-visit places!
Brussels: try the original Belgian fries
How about a visit to the cradle of Belgian fries? Book flights to Brussels and try fried potatoes in classic way!
To make the perfect Belgian fries, fry the potatoes twice; this will make them extra crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are served in a special paper cone with various sauces, such as mayonnaise, mustard, or tomato-based sauce.
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Amsterdam: taste the “patat” or fries with mayonnaise
Did you know that in Amsterdam fried potatoes are called “patat”? They are a staple of the local street food culture and, as in Belgium, are fried twice. The fries are served in a paper bag with a wide range of sauces, from mayonnaise to fancier variations like curry or spicy pepper-based sauces. Book flights to Amsterdam and enjoy delicious “patatas” with mayonnaise!
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Toronto: get a taste of poutine or fries with cheese and gravy
Book flights to Toronto and try the Canadian classic, the poutine. It's simple fries topped with dark gravy (hot meat sauce) and chunks of fresh cottage cheese, known as “cheese curds.”
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London: go for the traditional Fish & Chips
In London, fries are inseparable from “Fish & Chips,” which is fried fish (usually cod or salmon) and fries that are served together on a plate. Typically, they are thicker and have a soft, golden crust. The whole dish is served with various toppings, such as peas, salt, or vinegar. Book flights to the UK and give it a try!
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United States: stop by local burger shops
Book flights to the US and find out that fries here are more than just an accompaniment to burgers. In cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, you'll find burger shops that specialize in both excellent burgers and exceptional fries.
What's more, the fried potatoes here are served in unusual versions, for example, with toppings such as melted cheese, bacon, or sprinkles of spices.
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Greece: savor the taste of pita gyros with fries
Did you know that in Greece, fries are a common ingredient in pita gyros? It's a popular dish with meat (usually pork or chicken), vegetables, garlic sauce, and, surprisingly, just fries. They are what give the dish some crunch and satiety. Start celebrating Fries Day today and book your flights to Greece!
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Germany: order the popular currywurst mit Pommes
Or maybe you want to celebrate Fries Day in Germany? Here, fried potatoes are a popular accompaniment to currywurst, or sausage with curry sauce. And while fries are still considered a snack in Germany, pairing them with currywurst makes them one of Europe's most distinct street foods. Book flights to Germany and find out!
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Summary
On July 13, we celebrate International Fries Day—a snack whose origins are still hotly debated! If you're looking for the best places to celebrate this day, get ready for a culinary journey.
Start with Belgium, where you'll eat the original twice-fried fries in a cone. In Canada, poutine—fries with gravy and cheese—await you, and in the Netherlands, you'll dip into a “patat” with mayonnaise.
Then fly to the United States for fries with cheese or bacon; visit the United Kingdom with traditional Fish & Chips; taste currywurst mit Pommes in Germany. Finally, head to Greece, where you'll discover fries as a crunchy part of pita gyros.
Ready for a fry trip around the world? Book your flight!
Klara Krysiak
