Aside from its iconic tourist attractions, New York is also famous for its diverse and delicious culinary scene. From New York cheesecake to Reuben sandwiches, this article uncovers the 17 top foods for you to try while in the Big Apple!
Pastrami Sandwiches
An iconic New York lunch item, pastrami sandwiches are an absolute must-have when visiting New York. As described by TastingTable, “Typically served on rye bread, this sandwich is a simple one. A thick layer of pastrami slices topped with spicy mustard is all that’s truly needed for a pastrami creation. A side of dill pickles doesn’t hurt, though.” Try one at Katz’s Delicatessen!
New York Cheesecake
New York is famous for its cheesecake—and for good reason! This rich, dense, and creamy dessert is an absolute treat for sweet lovers, so make sure to fit it into your schedule while visiting. The cheesecake is available at various bakeries and dessert spots throughout the city.
Dirty Water Dogs
A New York street food classic, a dirty water dog is actually a hot dog! If you’re put off by the name, don’t be. As Daily Meal shares, “The colloquial phrase ‘dirty water’ means that the water in the vat has been seasoned with various spices, giving it a dark and cloudy appearance.” There’s nothing like a simple yet satisfying hot dog while you’re wandering the streets!
Joe’s Pizza
You can’t leave New York without a slice of its iconic pizza, but Joe’s Pizza specifically goes down as a real treat. This pizza spot actually appeared in one of the Spiderman movies and is popular among locals and celebrities alike, serving up thin, foldable slices of classic New York-style pizza.
Cannoli at Ferrara Bakery
Ferrara Bakery is a family-owned bakery known for its cannoli, offering a delightful taste of the traditional Italian pastry. It’s a real must-visit for dessert enthusiasts—open to the public since 1982 and serving up classics like tiramisu and gelato as well.
Hamburgers
While popular everywhere, hamburgers are a New York fast-food staple, and there are numerous top-quality burger joints in the city, such as New York Burger Co. and Red Hook Tavern. These gourmet burgers are often made with unique and flavorful ingredients.
Tacos at Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg is a famous weekend food market open from April to October each year. It hosts a selection of fantastic food vendors, and it’s here that you can find a variety of unique and delicious tacos. Get ready for your tastebuds to discover a blend of traditional and innovative flavors.
Bagels
As stated by Reader’s Digest, “No matter how hard bagel shops elsewhere in the country try, they can never make them quite like New York does.” New York is well known for its delicious bagels, often paired with cream cheese and smoked salmon, eggs and bacon, or pastrami. You can find numerous bagel shops and delis across New York.
Reuben Sandwiches
A grilled sandwich filled with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all served on rye bread—the Reuben sandwich is a deli classic found across New York. Don’t leave town before you get your hands on one!
Chicken and Rice From Halal Carts
A street food classic that is particularly popular after a night out on the town, these delicious chicken and rice containers often come with lettuce, tomatoes, and white and hot sauces drizzled on top. Depending on which cart you go to, you can also get pita bread served on the side!
Levain Bakery’s Cookies
These are the holy grail of cookies. Crispy on the outside but soft and chewy on the inside, Levain Bakery’s huge cookies come in a variety of flavors, such as Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chip and the original Chocolate Chip Walnut. Expect to wait in line for these popular treats!
Steak at St. Anselm
If you want a decent steak without spending an arm and a leg, pay a visit to St. Anselm. This spot is a more affordable alternative to upscale steakhouses, known for its butcher steak and bourbon-brined pork chops. Complement your meat with sides like creamed spinach and truffle potatoes!
Matzo Ball Soup
A Jewish comfort food classic, this soup consists of matzo balls in chicken broth with vegetables and sometimes noodles. It is commonly found in Jewish delis and diners, but The Infatuation specifically recommends Sarge’s Delicatessen, Essen NY Deli, and B&H Dairy.
Soft Serve at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop
Big Gay Ice Cream Shop serves up quirky, fun, and delicious soft-serve flavors for its customers. Some of its most popular are the Salty Pimp, Dorothy, and American Globs. This sweet treat is a playful twist on traditional ice cream that will also look great on your Instagram feed!
Pierogi at Veselka
Veselka is a Ukrainian diner in New York City’s East Village that is open 24/7. It offers a variety of delicious pierogi with incredible fillings, and you can choose to have them boiled or fried. While you’re there, you can also try the restaurant’s iconic latkes and homemade soup.
Waffles at Wafels & Dinges
This grab-and-go dessert shop offers inventive waffle combinations and is known for the “Wake Up Grumpy” waffle. While most people go for sweet toppings when visiting, you can also try out a savory waffle if you’re in the mood. Don’t miss out!
Moroccan Brunch at Cafe Mogador
Cafe Mogador is a must-visit for its brunch offerings. Founded in 1983 in the East Village, this restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and is popular for its affordable and delicious brunch menu that features dishes such as Moroccan Benedict and Za’atar Omelette Pita.
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