The never-ending trend of Americans searching out unusual gastronomic experiences is not limited to diners at high-end, white tablecloth restaurants. Every summer, from coast to coast, countless Americans who would not consider themselves to be foodies take a leap of faith and try new and out-the-ordinary foods while strolling the grounds of their favorite fair or festival.

It remains true that corn dogs, funnel cakes, elephant ears, candy apples and cotton candy still shine as staple treats enjoyed by summer fairgoers. But these dependable delights frequently take a backseat when competing against new, more exotic food offerings.

Below are snapshots of five relatively new-to-the-scene fair foods that are generating buzz this summer.

Chicken Fried Bacon
What’s in it: Bacon
What’s cool about it: The “candy of meats,” breaded and deep-fried. Winner of the “best taste” award at the 2008 State Fair of Texas food contest.
Where to find it: Texas (bigtex.com)

Hot Beef Sundae
What’s in it: Slow-roasted beef, gravy, buttery mashed potatoes, Cheddar cheese and a cherry tomato.
What’s cool about it: Promoted as “comfort food at its finest,” it really does resemble an ice cream sundae.
Where to find it: Iowa (iowastatefair.com)

Spaghetti and Meatball on a Stick
What’s in it: Deep-fried meatball mix and cooked spaghetti dipped in garlic batter accompanied by marinara sauce.
What’s cool about it: Walk, talk and enjoy an Italian classic.
Where to find it: Minnesota (mnstatefair.com)

Pizza Cones
What’s in it: Cone-shaped crust loaded with cheese, pepperoni, sausage and tomato sauce.
What’s cool about it: Portable, easy-to-eat pizza, at last.
Where to find it: Indiana (in.gov/statefair)

Fried Avocado Bites
What’s in it: Avocado spears coated in corn dog batter and deep-fried.
What’s cool about it: Vitamin-rich, on-the-go snacking.
Where to find it: California (bigfun.org)

What's your favorite food to eat at a summer fair or festival?