10 Must-Try NYC Foods (And Where to Find Them)

New York City is a food lover’s paradise with a world of flavors packed into every borough. Don’t miss these iconic bites:

1. Bagels – No trip is complete without a chewy New York bagel. Head to Ess-a-Bagel in Midtown or Absolute Bagels on the Upper West Side for the real deal.
2. New York Pizza – Grab a classic slice from Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village or the spicy pepperoni square at Prince Street Pizza.
3. Pastrami Sandwich – Visit Katz’s Delicatessen on the Lower East Side for a legendary pastrami on rye that’s been satisfying New Yorkers since 1888.
4. Cheesecake – Creamy, rich, and iconic. Junior’s in Brooklyn has been serving the city’s favorite cheesecake for decades.
5. Hot Dogs – Get a quick bite from Gray’s Papaya or the original Nathan’s Famous in Coney Island.
6. Halal Food – Grab a platter of chicken over rice with white sauce from the world-famous Halal Guys on 53rd and 6th.
7. Dumplings – Chinatown is filled with hidden gems like Vanessa’s Dumpling House for cheap and delicious pan-fried dumplings.
8. Birria Tacos – NYC’s newest taco trend is booming. Try Birria-Landia in Queens for juicy tacos dipped in consommé.
9. Knishes – Head to Yonah Schimmel’s Knish Bakery on Houston Street for this Jewish deli classic.
10. Cronut® – A hybrid of croissant and doughnut, invented in NYC by Dominique Ansel Bakery in SoHo. It’s a must-try for foodies.