Iconic food spots to try in NYC
Whether you’re enjoying a quick lunch between sightseeing stops or indulging in a sweet treat while you stroll through Central Park, these food spots have earned their place in the hearts (and on Instagram feeds) of both locals and tourists.
Beginning to plan a New York City break? Be sure to check out some of the must-try places that make the Big Apple truly unforgettable.
The classic New York bagel
No trip to New York would be complete without sinking your teeth into a proper bagel. Unlike the pale, tough versions you might be used to, the New York bagel is golden brown, crisp on the outside, and wonderfully soft and chewy on the inside. A classic bagel shop, such as Ess-a-Bagel, offers freshly baked bagels topped with anything from rich cream cheese to lox and capers. The flavours are incredibly fresh, and the bagel itself has just the right amount of substance to make it filling yet satisfying. Grab one to go for breakfast or lunch – it’s the kind of spot that makes you feel like a true New Yorker.
A slice of NYC
Pizza is quintessential New York, and grabbing a slice on the go is something locals do on the regular. Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village is an iconic stop for its traditional, no-frills slices. The crust is thin and crispy, topped with a rich tomato sauce and perfectly melted cheese. What makes Joe’s stand out is the balance of flavours. Pizza in New York is a must, especially when you can fold it in half for an authentic city experience.
Street food hot dogs
When the weather’s good and you’re exploring the streets of NYC, you’ll come across the famous hot dog carts. A beloved New York tradition, these street vendors serve up delicious hot dogs that are perfect for a quick snack between sightseeing. One of the most famous spots is Gray’s Papaya, known for its budget-friendly, flavour-packed dogs that locals rave about. The best part? You’ll get to taste the hot dog that has graced many of the city’s most iconic movies. The quick and easy nature of street food here makes it a convenient choice when you’re out and about. Enjoy it on the go or find a spot to sit and watch the world go by.
Sweet treats: Cheesecake vs. doughnuts
New York City’s dessert scene is equally vibrant, offering a battle between two iconic sweet treats: cheesecake and doughnuts. For cheesecake, Junior’s in Brooklyn is legendary. Rich, dense, and decadently creamy, their classic New York cheesecake has been delighting patrons for decades. On the other hand, for doughnuts, head to The Doughnut Project, where creative flavours like the ‘Everything Doughnut’ (inspired by the classic bagel) take centre stage. The advantage of visiting places like these? You get to choose between a classic or adventurous option, ensuring your sweet tooth is well satisfied.
Each of these iconic food spots provides a taste of New York’s unique flavours, blending the city’s history, culture, and innovation in every bite.
