A recent survey conducted by DatingAdvice.com explored the connection between food and romance, revealing that Maryland’s pit beef sandwich is one of the top dishes capable of capturing a man’s heart. The study, which polled 3,000 men across the United States, aimed to identify which iconic regional dishes hold the power to win over male diners. Maryland was well-represented in the results, with four signature dishes making the list.
The survey’s findings are rooted in the long-held belief that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and DatingAdvice.com set out to explore whether specific dishes play a role in romantic success. As part of the study, the top 10 dishes that resonated most with men were identified, while an infographic was created to highlight the top 100 meals.
New York Cheesecake Tops the List
Claiming the number one spot in the poll is New York’s beloved cheesecake. Known for its rich, creamy texture atop a graham cracker crust, this dessert was found to be the ultimate heart-winner for men across the country. In second place was Pennsylvania’s iconic Philly cheesesteak, a savory sandwich packed with thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions.
Also making the top five were Michigan’s Detroit-style pizza, Illinois’ deep-dish pizza, and West Virginia’s biscuits and gravy—all dishes known for their hearty portions and comforting flavors. Other notable entries in the top ten included Kansas City-style BBQ, New York’s pastrami on rye, Wisconsin’s fish fry, Nebraska’s Reuben sandwich, and Kentucky’s fried chicken.
Maryland Dishes Make Their Mark
While New York and Pennsylvania secured the top spots, Maryland wasn’t far behind, with four of the state’s signature dishes making the extended list. Among the favorites, Maryland’s pit beef sandwich was the standout, ranking 36th on the list of the most heart-winning meals. The pit beef sandwich, a Maryland classic, features juicy, slow-roasted beef that is thinly sliced and served on a soft roll. Known for its smoky flavor and tender texture, the sandwich has become a staple at Maryland barbecues and is a clear favorite for men who appreciate a satisfying, flavorful meal.
In addition to the pit beef sandwich, Maryland’s culinary heritage was further recognized with three other dishes appearing on the list. The soft-shell crab ranked at 125, followed closely by Maryland’s famous crab cakes at 136. These dishes showcase Maryland’s strong seafood traditions, with crab cakes in particular celebrated for their use of fresh lump crab meat with minimal fillers. Finally, the multi-layered Smith Island cake, a decadent dessert, made the list at 227.
The Science Behind Comfort Foods
DatingAdvice.com consulted with relationship expert Dr. Wendy Walsh to provide insights into why certain dishes resonate so deeply with men. According to Walsh, comfort foods—typically rich in carbohydrates and fats—stimulate dopamine production in the brain. “Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that can trigger motivation for a reward,” said Walsh. “That reward may just be a woman. It’s true, dopamine has been involved in reward-seeking behaviors for food, drugs, and, yes, sex. It’s sometimes called the hedonistic hormone.”
Dr. Walsh explained that these foods create a sense of emotional satisfaction, which can be linked to a feeling of warmth and contentment, often associated with home-cooked meals or traditional dishes. For many men, enjoying these familiar, hearty meals may stir up positive emotions, contributing to the dishes’ romantic appeal.
The Full List of Maryland’s Heart-Winning Dishes
The four Maryland dishes included in the top 300 are:
- Pit Beef Sandwich (#36) – Thinly sliced, slow-cooked beef served on a roll with a variety of condiments, showcasing Maryland’s barbecue culture.
- Soft-Shell Crab (#125) – A Maryland seafood delicacy, featuring crispy soft-shell crabs that are often served in sandwiches or as an entrée.
- Crab Cakes (#136) – Sweet, tender cakes made with fresh Maryland crab, offering a luxurious seafood experience.
- Smith Island Cake (#227) – Maryland’s official state dessert, featuring multiple layers of moist cake and rich frosting.
A Deeper Connection Between Food and Emotion
The study offers a glimpse into the powerful connection between food and emotion, particularly in the realm of relationships. While the idea that a man’s heart can be won through his stomach may seem like a cliché, the survey suggests there’s more than a little truth to it. Whether it’s a rich slice of New York cheesecake or a Maryland pit beef sandwich, these dishes evoke feelings of comfort and satisfaction that are hard to resist.
