New York City is a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines, making it a foodie’s paradise. From traditional American fare to international delights, there is no shortage of delicious food options in the Big Apple. With so many incredible restaurants to choose from, planning your eating itinerary can be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll take you through some must-visit restaurants and dishes to try while in New York City.
Breakfast/Brunch
Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast or brunch. There’s no shortage of amazing brunch spots in New York City, but one of the best is Balthazar in SoHo. This classic French bistro serves up delicious pastries, omelets, and croque-monsieurs in a beautiful setting. Be sure to try their famous bread basket, which comes with an assortment of freshly baked bread and pastries.
If you’re looking for something a little more casual, head over to Russ & Daughters Cafe in the Lower East Side. This Jewish deli has been around for over 100 years and is known for their incredible smoked fish. Be sure to try their bagels and lox, which come with a generous portion of silky-smooth smoked salmon.
Lunch
For lunch, head over to Katz’s Delicatessen in the Lower East Side. This iconic deli has been around since 1888 and is known for their massive pastrami sandwiches. Be sure to get the classic pastrami on rye with a side of pickles for the ultimate New York deli experience.
If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, head over to Xi’an Famous Foods in Chinatown. This no-frills eatery serves up some of the best noodles in the city. Try their hand-ripped noodles with spicy lamb or their famous spicy and tingly beef noodles.
Dinner
For dinner, head over to Carbone in Greenwich Village. This retro Italian-American restaurant is known for their delicious red sauce dishes and old-school charm. Be sure to try their famous veal parmesan or their spaghetti and meatballs.
If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, head over to Eleven Madison Park in the Flatiron District. This three-Michelin-starred restaurant is known for their inventive tasting menu and impeccable service. Sample their signature dish, celery root cooked in a pig’s bladder, which is sure to impress even the most discerning foodies.
Dessert
No trip to New York City is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. For the ultimate dessert experience, head over to Milk Bar in the East Village. This bakery is known for their creative twists on classic desserts, such as their famous cereal milk soft serve and compost cookies.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more classic, head over to Junior’s in Times Square. This iconic diner is known for their delicious cheesecake, which is made using a secret family recipe. Get their classic New York-style cheesecake or their seasonal pumpkin cheesecake.
Snacks
In between meals, be sure to indulge in some of New York City’s famous street food. One of the most iconic street foods in the city is the hot dog, and there’s no better place to try it than at Gray’s Papaya in the Upper West Side. Be sure to try their famous recession special, which includes two hot dogs and a drink for under $5.
Another must-try street food in New York City is the soft pretzel. Head over to Auntie Anne’s in Times Square for a warm, buttery soft pretzel, or to Sigmund’s Pretzels in the East Village for a more artisanal twist on the classic snack.
Drinks
After indulging in all the delicious food that New York City has to offer, it’s time to wash it down with some drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy cocktail or a casual beer, there’s no shortage of great drinking spots in the city.
If you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail, head over to the Dead Rabbit in the Financial District. This Irish bar has won numerous awards for their incredible cocktails, which range from classic drinks to their own creative creations. Sip their signature Irish coffee, which is made with Jameson Irish whiskey and freshly whipped cream.
For a more casual drinking experience, head over to the Brooklyn Brewery in Williamsburg. This brewery offers tours and tastings of their delicious beers, which range from classic IPAs to more experimental brews. Drink their famous Brooklyn Lager, which is a classic New York beer.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, head over to The Aviary in the Mandarin Oriental hotel. This bar offers creative and inventive cocktails that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Order their famous “Science A.F.” cocktail, which is served in a beaker and made with matcha, coconut, and lime.
Final Thoughts
New York City is truly a foodie’s paradise, with endless options for every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American fare or international delights, there’s no shortage of incredible restaurants to try. Plan your eating itinerary ahead of time so you don’t miss out on any of the delicious food that the city has to offer. And remember, the best way to experience New York City’s food scene is to explore and try new things – you never know what delicious surprise you may stumble upon.
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