We lead the world in wealth, technology, higher education, entertainment, and virtually every other category of greatness that you can think of. But in terms of gastronomy, American food is totally unremarkable.
American food can be fresh, simple and innovative.
At it's best, it can be comforting diner food or truly gourmet. However, few restaurants really do American well, and we've had terrible luck with them. Most chain American food, like TGI Fridays, is simply awful stuff. Much like a cross between cafeteria food and airline food.