In addition to a vibrant art and fashion scene, New York City offers a wide range of culinary experiences. If you dive into the city, you can find almost every dish you want and discover a lot more. However, there are a few iconic New York foods you can not miss on your visit!
This guide explores the best food in New York, from beloved street snacks to gourmet dining experiences. And if you’re not in New York but still crave its signature flavors, we will tell you how to enjoy them from anywhere.
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Why is NY considered a food mecca?
New York cuisine stands out for its constant innovation and influence on international cuisine. Iconic dishes such as New York-style pizza, cheesecake, and hot dogs are known worldwide and attract tourists every year to try them.
On the other hand, New York is where global cuisines collide (think of the best Italian food and Korean food you will have), and dining options are endless. You can find the best food in New York in grab-and-go options or fine dining experiences.
Don’t you think New York is every foodie’s dream destination?
5 iconic New York foods and dishes that are worth a try
Here are our top dishes to eat in New York:
1. New York-style pizza
This dish is available almost everywhere, but if you want to try the best pizza in New York, we suggest going to Joe’s Pizza, John’s of Bleecker Street, or Mama’s Too to get the classic plain slice or a whole pie.
If you want extra flavor, add toppings! Some of the most popular are olives, Italian sausage, pepperoni, ricotta, and onions.
2. Banana pudding at Magnolia Bakery
Desserts are also essential when learning about iconic foods in New York. This famous dish features banana slices, lush vanilla pudding, and vanilla wafers. The pudding’s sweet taste and crunchy texture make it a sure choice for New Yorkers craving a sweet treat.
3. Chicken and waffles
→ Restaurant suggestions: Sylvia’s Restaurant and Melba’s Restaurant.
Searching for iconic brunch dishes in New York? Chicken and waffles, with their delicious combination of sweet and salty flavors, are an excellent example of New York cuisine, and many locals’ favorite! This food became popular in Harlem around the 1930s and has been a neighborhood classic since then.
4. New York-style cheesecake at Junior’s Cheesecake
Three factors make this dessert an iconic New York food: its creamy texture, smooth consistency, and deep flavor. What sets it apart from other varieties? A large amount of cream cheese, and a gradual baking technique. The presentation is usually plain or with a light topping of fruit or sauce.
5. Hot dogs at Nathan’s Famous
As it happens with pizza, hot dogs are everywhere in New York. But if you’re looking for a long-time tradition, some iconic restaurants are worth visiting. Go to Nathan’s Famous in Coney Island to enjoy a classic hot dog with fresh, crunchy french fries. If you’re traveling in the summer, you don’t want to miss the hot dog eating contest on July 4!
→ Other restaurant suggestions: Grey’s Papaya and Famous Lunch.
5 New York famous deluxe food
Let’s see the best gourmet dining options in NY:
6. Porterhouse for two at Peter Luger
Peter Luger is one of the most iconic restaurants in New York. It holds a Michelin star and is known for its legendary porterhouse, which is made with USDA prime beef.
The restaurant stands out for its in-house meat dry-aging process, which concentrates the flavor and produces a more tender steak. The cooking techniques and service are also key to an outstanding dining experience.
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7. Black Label burger at Minetta Tavern
Minetta Tavern is another iconic food place in New York. Rumor has it that it’s always packed with big stars! Although they have a vast, excellent menu worth trying, you can’t miss the iconic Black Label burger. The meat’s tenderness and intense flavor keep it on the list of deluxe food in NY.
Remember to make a reservation or arrive early to secure a place. If you want to enjoy this meal without rushing your travel itinerary, hire a private chef in New York.
8. Eggplant rollatini at Bamonte
If you want Italian deluxe food in New York, try the famous eggplant rollatini at Bamonte in Brooklyn. This iconic NY dish has thinly sliced fried eggplant and ricotta cheese filling with flavorful and bubbly tomato sauce. It is a well-known food in the Italian community, and almost every restaurant has its version.
9. Mutton chop at Keens Steakhouse
When you enter Keens, you step into a time-travel experience, as it is one of the oldest steakhouses and most iconic food places in New York, opening in 1885. The mutton chop, by far its most famous dish, is made from the tender saddle of lamb and carefully cooked to enhance its flavor and produce a soft texture.
Some of the most popular side dishes to accompany this meal are a wedge salad, creamed spinach, and escarole sautéed.
10. Bulgogi at Jongpro Gopchang
Korean food in New York has grown widely in the past few years, as prompted by Kyung Rim Choi, owner of Jongpro Gopchang in Manhattan. This restaurant serves authentic Korean grill dishes, stir-fries, stews, rice, and noodles. However, it excels in bulgogi, thin-sliced prime meat served with glass noodles, vegetables, and sauces.
What if I’m not in New York but still want a New York food experience?
If traveling to New York is not part of your plans, we’ve got you covered! Taste the famous NY cuisine at home on your next dinner, lunch, or event with Take a Chef.
Hire a private chef and ask to craft a menu inspired by New York’s most iconic dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for deluxe dishes or classic New York fast food, our skilled professionals know how to answer your cravings to make your meal unforgettable.
These services will help you get a NY experience at home:
- Italian private chef: get the gourmet eggplant rollatini right at your table.
- Luxury private chef: if you want to try the deluxe New York food alternatives.
- Private BBQ chef: perfect for Korean BBQ, prime Porterhouse, or an iconic NY-style burger.
- Private pizza chef: if you crave NY-style pizza with a gourmet twist.
Enjoy the best New York food with your loved ones whenever you feel comfortable, without waiting hours to get into a restaurant and avoiding crowds and noise. Prepare to host and have a great time at your party; we will take care of the rest.
