I found the dining in Iraq and Baghdad to be the worst experience the entire trip. Although the meals from camp to camp varied widely, none compared to my lovely wife's home cooking. Few camps had fresh fruits and vegatables. Even fewer had ice cream, the American favorite. Those that did were "hot spots" and always crowded. Reservations required, must have ID card to enter. Further North into the country the food was far less fresh and served from a can. Yes, chicken with gravy and stuffing...in a can. Cubed eggs, biscuits, sausage, corn beef hash...in a can. The always edible waffle comes in a sealed pouch, which, believe it or not is quite good if eaten before the 120 degree heat and sand gobble them up. The canned pie filling toppings make the waffle the most enjoyable part of breakfast.
When away from camp or on the road, the infamous MRE was plentiful. Several new MRE menus are now available. Beef enchilada and hamburger to name my favorites. The hamburger comes with two slices of wheat snack bread. If warmed up properly with your handy-dandy heater makes this meal the most American thing about the deployment (I mean vacation). Add the included barbecue sauce and cheese packets and you're right back home at the local greasy diner...gotta love that!
Layer your Western style beans, picante sauce, and jalapeno cheese across your enchilada pouch and each bite becomes a delectable surprise of spicy Mexican flavor, reminiscent of the Old Town district in the beautiful San Diego, CA.
The chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry protein shakes were a wonderful surprise in many of the new MREs. This became the new bartering food...nothing is free, not even to the Freedom Fighters.
Ambiance was missing completely during the dining experience in Iraq. Occassionally, the eating environment took on an odd, dangerous feeling. Like the vulnerable Serengeti giraffe stooping slowly and precariously for water, wondering if he's just taken his last sip.