John Wayne wasn’t just a larger-than-life movie star—he was an icon of rugged Americana, both on and off the screen. Known for his commanding presence and no-nonsense attitude, The Duke also had a hearty appetite that matched his persona. He loved straightforward, satisfying meals that reflected his cowboy spirit and old-fashioned tastes. Let’s take a bite out of history and explore some of the favorite foods John Wayne couldn’t get enough of, and what they tell us about the man behind the legend.
1. Beans: A Campfire Classic
No cowboy diet would be complete without beans, and Wayne wasn’t an exception. Whether baked, refried, or cooked over a campfire, beans were a staple for their simplicity and flavor. Eating a plate of beans today evokes images of wide-open prairies, starry nights, and the rugged life Wayne so often portrayed.
2. Potatoes: The Perfect Sidekick
Wayne believed in hearty, no-frills meals, and potatoes in all forms—mashed, baked, fried—were always a favorite. They’re the classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with steak, and they’re as dependable as The Duke himself. Imagine sitting around a campfire with Wayne, digging into a plate of buttery mashed potatoes, and you’ll get why this humble food was such a staple for him.
3. Eggs and Bacon: Breakfast of Champions
John Wayne started his days early, often on set or on location for his next big film. His breakfast of choice? Eggs and bacon, cooked up just right. It’s a classic American meal, simple and satisfying, giving him the energy to power through long days. For fans, recreating this breakfast feels like a connection to his hardworking, all-American spirit.
4. Chili: Spicy and Satisfying
A man of the West wouldn’t be complete without a love for chili. John Wayne was reportedly a big fan of this hearty, spicy dish, and he even lent his name to a chili mix brand later in life. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for a rugged cowboy or a cozy evening reminiscing about the old frontier.
5. Cornbread: A Western Essential
Chili’s best companion is, of course, cornbread, and The Duke knew that. Cornbread has that unmistakable taste of the West—warm, slightly sweet, and endlessly satisfying. Imagine a plate of chili with a golden square of cornbread on the side, and you’ve got a meal fit for a Western icon. It’s simple, timeless, and downright comforting.
6. Bourbon: The Duke’s Drink of Choice
While not a food, no list of John Wayne’s favorites would be complete without mentioning bourbon. Wayne appreciated a good, strong drink to unwind after a long day, and bourbon fit the bill perfectly. Rich, smoky, and bold—just like him—sharing a sip of bourbon today feels like raising a glass to The Duke himself.
7. Beef Stew: Rustic and Real
For a man who spent much of his career portraying cowboys and frontiersmen, it’s no wonder Wayne loved beef stew. It’s a dish that brings the West to life, with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth simmered to perfection. Whether made at home or enjoyed on a film set, this dish was pure comfort food, reminding him—and us—of simpler times.
8. Roast Beef Sandwiches: A Hearty Favorite
John Wayne wasn’t one for dainty meals, and a roast beef sandwich was just the kind of no-nonsense food he’d enjoy. Piled high with juicy slices of beef, served on crusty bread with just the right amount of fixings, this sandwich was hearty enough to satisfy a cowboy appetite. It’s a reminder that sometimes, simple is best.
9. Apple Pie: All-American Dessert
What’s more American than apple pie? Wayne had a sweet tooth for this classic dessert, often enjoying a slice after a hearty meal. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or plain and simple, apple pie is the perfect way to end a meal inspired by The Duke. It’s a little slice of nostalgia that connects us to a bygone era.
10. Steak: A Cowboy’s Classic
Is it any surprise that John Wayne loved a good steak? Whether it was grilled over an open flame or prepared to perfection at a high-end restaurant, steak was his go-to meal. The Duke appreciated simple, quality food that mirrored his Western roots. Eating a thick, juicy steak today feels like channeling his larger-than-life cowboy energy—just add a side of potatoes for the ultimate homage.
11. Homemade Biscuits: Warm and Buttery
There’s something about a warm, flaky biscuit that feels quintessentially Western, and John Wayne loved them. Whether served with gravy, butter, or jam, biscuits were a comforting addition to his meals. They’re the kind of food that transports you straight to a ranch kitchen, making you feel at home no matter where you are.
12. Barbecue Ribs: Smoky and Bold
Wayne enjoyed the smoky, bold flavors of barbecue, especially ribs. Sticky, tender, and packed with flavor, barbecue ribs are a feast that feels like a celebration of American cuisine. Pair them with some classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans, and you’ve got a meal worthy of a Western legend.
John Wayne’s favorite foods weren’t about luxury or trends—they were about authenticity, simplicity, and the kind of hearty meals that fueled a larger-than-life man. Eating like The Duke is more than just a culinary choice—it’s a way to connect with a piece of Americana and savor the flavors of a truly unforgettable era. So grab a plate, pour a glass of bourbon, and toast to The Duke.
