I think most people prefer the food they grew up with, although many have moved on and expanded their interests.

Having learned in school to stand up with respect when Dixie played, I've tried and disliked every food on your "Southern list". Well, unsweetened cornbread is sorta okay. With the exception of expensive fish and whole wheat breads the other list is what I prefer. That said, my family did not "cook southern", but I suffered way to many meals at the homes of friends and school cafeterias.

Don't even mention grits and iced tea, sweet or not. I don't see fried chicken on your Southern list, but it's the one thing Southern cooks can do like no one else. Where are the biscuits and gravy (another abomination)? Chitlins? Ramps?

Stereotyping prevails. What do mid-westerners eat? The same thing as everyone else. In the last 20 years or so you pretty much get the same food everywhere even at home.