Yeah that's what I mean. "Culture" has so many meanings/layers/definitions. Feel same on the 'outsider' bit. 

 And omg FOOD is such an important aspect of 'home'  (and culture - all of its meanings!)- I was a lot pickier when I was younger, and so stuck on being vegetarian (have since evolved lol) that I never felt at home in Thailand because I didn't appreciate the food. (said no one ever on the planet except for me haha...I know, I know. That said, since a brief visit in 2015 - where I gorged myself on the street food, I look back at the 2006 me in a whole new light...entire feasts for a few bucks. So yummy.)

The US - or at least the NYC region spoils us with food choices. Even a a few hours outside the city, where I live now, I miss the options. (along with many other places - but I can only speak of this area because I know it so well). Food definitely plays a significant role in creating a sense of 'home'. 

"Home" too - something we don't necessarily have just one of. Many places/people/time periods can fulfill that role over the course of a life time. My relationship with my 'hometown' had it's ups and downs - I 'escaped' at a young age, and got over issues I had with it over the years - because I could sort of go and visit for a few days and pick and choose who I saw. But I always went back for my dad. After he died - that town ceased to be 'home' in any sense of the word.  I realized after all those years HE was my home...that was a lot to unpack..that home was less of a place than a feeling.  Aside from occasional nostalgia for specific periods of youth - and a handful of life long friends - I no longer feel any connection to the place. I still call it my hometown out of habit...but only in a literal sense.