Ah, the french fry—perhaps the most universally enjoyed side-snack on the planet. According to reports, Americans alone eat 30 pounds of French fries a year. However eaten—dipped in ketchup or mayo, thin and crispy, or thick and chewy—there’s no risk in not satisfying the taste buds.

For National French Fry Day, we’ve dug to find out a little about the history of this fried potato treat, along with the best places to indulge across the world.

But first, the quintessential question: did French fries really come from France?

The answer is no. The origin of the fry is technically South America, when the Incas first cultivated the coveted potato. Then, in came the Spanish, who conquered the Incan empire and brought potatoes back to Europe. (So yes, potatoes were first introduced to Europe from the Spanish, not the French or Belgians!)

Then, potatoes made their way to Belgium. The legend goes that when their rivers froze, it was more difficult for Belgians to fry fish in thin, long slices—a traditional fare. So they resorted to using potatoes instead, cutting and frying them up, just as they would fish.

And now, here’s a sampling of the different types of fries people can eat around the world:

Belgium: Pommes frites

“Can I get a side of fries?” isn’t the question tourists should be asking when traveling to Belgium. Pomme frites, which are sold at various food stands called frietkots, are often eaten as a main meal. (Breakfast, anyone?) One of the most visited frietkots in Brussels is a local favorite called Antoine's near Place Jourdan. Or treat yourself to a room at Hotel ‘T Sandt and discover one of the other 4,000 fry stands in the country.

Canada: Poutine

What are fries without a little cheese and gravy, eh? If headed up north to Canada, no traveler can deem their trip complete without a serving or two of poutine, which are fries doused in cheese curds and gravy. You can find them in most dive-spots and diners, though one of the best is La Banquise in Montreal. 

America: French fry

There’s no denying it: the American French fry is pretty darn tasty. There are many different types and kinds —from fast food fries to thick cut, house-cut, twice-fried, and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. Perhaps the most “American” fry is a classic order from McDonalds, so live a little and take a trip to the golden arches. For something a bit more sophisticated, check out this list of 30 best fries in the US. Our favorite may be Pike Street Fish Fry in Seattle. 

England: Chips

These chips are not of the sour cream and onion variety. Chips in the UK are thick-cut fries traditionally eaten with battered fish (“Fish n chips”). A classic style of chips will be soft and covered in vinegar. A local favorite is Frankie’s Fish & Chips in Brae, Shetlands.

Jamaica: Plantains

Skip the potato and go after a different, but equally enjoyable starch. Fried plantains, an unripe banana that’s peeled and sliced before thrown in the frying pan, is a hit in Jamaica, and is often the start of a hearty meal. If the sweet-tooth strikes, people can find ripe plantains which makes the chips sweeter. Travel like a Caribbean King to indulge today, or learn how to make them right at home.

South Africa: Slap chips

This fry variety is similar to chips in the UK, which one interesting twist: the potatoes are soaked in vinegar before sliced and fried. The name comes from the Afrikaans language; “slap” in means “soft,” and these fries are notorious for being soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside. Some places even have fries for sale while shopping for top-designer clothes. What other reason does one need to jet over and chow down?

India: Finger chips

India quite literally spices things up when it comes to fries. While they come in many shapes and sizes, the flavors are what make them stand out. Fries, called fingers chips here, are usually cooked in turmeric and chili powder, and sometimes flavored with masala. Check out these top spots for a salty, fried snack in Delhi.

South Korea: Honey butter fries

This is a now or never type situation. Recently, McDonalds in South Korea created honey butter fries, which are available for an (unknown) limited of time. It’s pretty simple recipe: one part fry, one part honey, and one part…butter. Get ‘em before they run out, or before anyone becomes at risk for, uh, health problems.

America (Southern California): Carne Asada fries

Stop everything. Mexican food plus fries? The traditional tastes and flavors of Mexican food have been combined with the crispy, salty goodness of fries in many local joints in San Diego and LA. Try Te’Kila in Los Angeles, where customers can get a plate of waffle fries topped with meat, guacamole, and cheese. 

Spain: Patatas bravas

These “fries” are a traditional favorite in Spain, consisting of potatoes cut into cubes and served in a tomato sauce, or with a side of aioli. The dish is often served with toppings like chorizo, chicken, or fried fish, and found at tapa bars and restaurants.