New York City is every foodie’s dream. In fact, it’s hard to visit the Big Apple without food being a major part of your trip. From iconic bagels to legendary pizza slices, NYC food seems to taste better than anywhere else in the world. Check out these 15 classic eats that are staples for your next visit.
Bagels with Cream Cheese and Lox
NYC’s bagels are legendary, and the two go hand in hand like Simon and Garfunkel. For the ultimate classic combo, you need to try cream cheese and lox (smoked salmon). Head to Russ & Daughters or Ess-a-Bagel for the ultimate experience. It’s the quintessential New York breakfast.
New York-Style Pizza
Amazing pizza and NYC are synonymous. Nothing beats folding a greasy, cheesy NYC pizza slice. Try Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village or Lucali in Brooklyn for slices so good, they’ll ruin all other pizzas for you. It’s cheap, fast, delicious, and the ultimate NYC street food experience.
Hot Dogs
A stroll through NYC just isn’t complete without a hot dog, and there’s something about the ones in NYC that just hits differently. Classic spots like Gray’s Papaya or Nathan’s Famous on Coney Island serve up this legendary quick bite. Quick, easy, filling, and tasty—it’s the ultimate NYC snack.
Pretzels from a Street Cart
NYC street pretzels are a must if you’ve never experienced them. They’re incredibly tasty and larger than life. Grab one from almost any food cart, but for something extra special, head to Sigmund’s Pretzels in the East Village. They’ve taken pretzels to a whole other level. You’ll be hooked.
Cheesecake
There’s traditional cheesecake, and then there’s NYC cheesecake. Denser, creamier, and richer than you’ve ever tasted. Junior’s in Brooklyn has been serving the best for decades, but spots like Eileen’s Special Cheesecake in Nolita also deserve a visit. Trust us, one slice isn’t enough! Tip: ditch the diet and devour with satisfaction.
New York Pickles
NYC is famous for its pickle obsession, and the Lower East Side is a pickle-lover’s paradise. You can choose between perfectly brined half-sour or full-sour pickles from The Pickle Guys or Guss’ Pickles. They’re an institution among New Yorkers and the perfect sidekick to a pastrami sandwich. The best in the world!
Pastrami Sandwiches
Speaking of pickles, they pair perfectly with a classic NYC pastrami sandwich. Thick, juicy pastrami piled high on rye bread is one of the most loved food choices of all. For the real deal, head to the Lower East Side. Pro tip: order it extra juicy for the best experience, and don’t forget the pickles on the side.
Dim Sum in Chinatown
NYC’s Chinatown offers some of the best dim sum in the country. Head to Nom Wah Tea Parlor or Jing Fong for a dim sum feast. From soup dumplings to sesame balls, you’ll want to sample everything on the cart. If you’re going to sample any one food, this is it!
Egg Creams
Despite the name, there’s no egg or cream in this classic NYC drink. It’s just milk, seltzer, and chocolate syrup. Try this nostalgic treat at Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop or Gem Spa. The name might be confusing, but the drink is straightforward and delicious.
Cronuts
This croissant-doughnut hybrid was invented by Dominique Ansel Bakery in Soho, and it’s worth the hype. Now a global favorite, this quirky treat is part flaky pastry, part fried dough. Once you’ve tried one, there’s no going back. Be prepared to queue up early, though—they sell out mega fast!
Knishes
If you’ve yet to get accustomed to knishes, they’re quirky little potato-filled dough pockets. They’re also a firm staple of NYC’s Jewish culinary heritage. Try them at Yonah Schimmel’s Knish Bakery, a Lower East Side institution since 1910. Whether you choose savory or sweet, knishes are tasty, satisfying, and deliciously old-school.
Italian Hero Sandwiches
NYC is known for its supersized sandwiches, but the well-known Italian delis take them to a whole new level. Each sandwich is piled with meats, cheese, and veggies—pretty much a meal and a half. Check out Faicco’s Italian Specialties or Parisi Bakery for some of the city’s best. Filling is an understatement.
Halal Cart Chicken and Rice
Halal carts are a staple of NYC street food, and The Halal Guys reign supreme all over. Their chicken and rice platter, doused in white sauce and hot sauce, is a legendary dish for locals. You’ll find carts all over the city, making it a convenient and delicious grab-and-go meal.
Soft Serve Ice Cream
Soft serve isn’t just a summer treat in NYC—it’s an institution. Big Gay Ice Cream takes it to another level with flavors like the “Salty Pimp.” The shop offers unique flavors with plenty of character. Whether you’re strolling through Central Park or exploring Brooklyn, soft serve is always a good idea, rain or shine.
Oysters
NYC’s oyster culture dates back centuries, and there are still incredible places to indulge yourself. Visit The Grand Central Oyster Bar for a classic experience or Maison Premiere in Williamsburg for a trendy take on this timeless delicacy. Not everyone loves oysters, but they’re worth a try at least once.
