Introduction: “New York City is renowned for its diverse and delectable food scene. The city offers a culinary adventure that’s second to none. From the classic New York-style pizza to bagels that are the stuff of legend, it promises unique tastes. Whether you’re a food aficionado, you must try these ten iconic dishes when visiting the Big Apple. If you’re simply exploring the city, these dishes are a must-try as well. Dive into this guide to uncover the best spots for the iconic foods of New York City.”
1. New York-Style Pizza
New York-style pizza is famous for its thin, foldable crust and generous, cheesy slices. Typically, it’s topped with a simple tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, although many places offer an extensive variety of toppings. Because of its large, foldable slices, it’s perfect for eating on the go, embodying the fast-paced spirit of NYC.
Where to Try It: Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village is a staple for classic New York-style pizza. Joe’s opened in 1975. It consistently serves the best of the iconic foods of New York City. It delights both locals and tourists alike.
Location: 7 Carmine Street, New York, NY 10014
Website: joespizza.com
2. Bagels with Lox and Cream Cheese
Bagels with lox and cream cheese are a quintessential New York breakfast. The dish includes a chewy, boiled bagel. It is topped with silky cream cheese and slices of smoked salmon. Capers, onions, and tomatoes often go with it. Not only does this meal represent the city’s Jewish heritage, but it’s also an integral part of NYC’s food culture.
Where to Try It: Russ & Daughters on the Lower East Side is the place to go. They have been serving legendary bagels with lox for over a century. They have maintained this tradition for years. It has been doing so since 1914. This marks it as one of the prime spots for the iconic foods of New York City. They’re known for their high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes.
Location: 179 E Houston Street, New York, NY 10002
Website: russanddaughters.com
3. Pastrami on Rye
The classic pastrami on rye features tender, spiced pastrami piled high on rye bread, typically served with mustard. It is a staple of New York’s Jewish delis. It’s also a must-try for anyone wanting to experience the true flavors of NYC.
Where to Try It: For the best experience, head to Katz’s Delicatessen on the Lower East Side. This iconic spot is renowned for its pastrami on rye. It has been serving one of the most authentic iconic foods of New York City for over a century.
Location: 205 E Houston Street, New York, NY 10002
Website: katzsdelicatessen.com
4. Hot Dogs
Hot dogs are a quintessential street food in New York City. Often topped with mustard and sauerkraut, these quick and delicious snacks capture the essence of NYC’s bustling streets. While walking through the city, you’ll notice various hot dog stands at almost every corner.
Where to Try It: Gray’s Papaya, famous for its ‘Recession Special,’ offers some of the best hot dogs in NYC. Since 1973, it has been a favorite spot for locals. Visitors also come here to enjoy the iconic foods of New York City.
Location: 2090 Broadway, New York, NY 10023
Website: grayspapaya.com
5. Cheesecake
New York-style cheesecake is known for its rich, creamy texture and dense consistency. Made with cream cheese, it has a unique taste that distinguishes it from other cheesecakes.
Where to Try It: Junior’s Restaurant in Brooklyn is legendary for its New York-style cheesecake. Junior’s has been serving this iconic dessert since 1950. It is often hailed as the place to find one of the best iconic foods of New York City.
Location: 386 Flatbush Avenue Extension, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Website: juniorscheesecake.com
6. Egg Cream
Despite its name, an egg cream holds neither eggs nor cream. This classic New York drink is a fizzy, chocolatey concoction made with milk, seltzer, and chocolate syrup. It’s a nostalgic treat that offers a refreshing break from the city’s lively pace.
Where to Try It: Eddie’s Sweet Shop in Forest Hills is known for its traditional egg creams. Eddie’s Sweet Shop has been serving this iconic beverage since 1909. It is a must-visit to experience one of the iconic foods of New York City.
Location: 105-29 Metropolitan Avenue, Forest Hills, NY 11375
Website: eddiessweetshop.com
7. Knish
A knish is a pastry filled with various savory ingredients, like potatoes, meat, or cheese. This Eastern European delight reflects the city’s rich immigrant history. It is also a popular street food in New York City.
Where to Try It: When craving a knish, visit Yonah Schimmel’s Knish Bakery, established in 1910. Located on the Lower East Side, this bakery has become synonymous with the iconic foods of New York City.
Location: 137 E Houston Street, New York, NY 10002
Website: yonahschimmelknish.com
8. Italian-American Meatballs
Italian-American meatballs truly showcase the city’s strong Italian influence. Typically, you’ll find them served with spaghetti or in a sub. These meatballs combine a blend of beef, pork, and seasonings. They offer a hearty and flavourful dish. This highlights the rich Italian-American culinary tradition.
Where to Try It: For a taste of this tradition, visit Parm in the Lower East Side. They serve some of the best Italian-American meatballs in the city. In fact, their handcrafted meatballs are a highlight of their menu and represent the iconic foods of New York City.
Location: 248 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012
Website: parmnyc.com
9. Black and White Cookie
The black and white cookie is a New York classic. It is recognised for its cake-like texture. It is also known for its split vanilla and chocolate icing. This sweet treat is an example of the city’s diverse culinary offerings and a must-have for dessert lovers.
Where to Try It: Glaser’s Bake Shop is a historic bakery on the Upper East Side. It is famous for its black and white cookies. Established in 1902, Glaser’s has become an institution when it comes to the iconic foods of New York City.
Location: 2282 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10035
Website: glasersbakeshop.com
10. Roasted Nuts
Roasted nuts are a beloved street food in New York City. Found on nearly every corner, these roasted and seasoned nuts offer a crunchy and satisfying snack. They are perfect for exploring the city. Enjoy them while taking in its street food culture.
Where to Try It: The Nutty Buddy stand in Times Square is well-known for its roasted nuts. Grab a bag of freshly roasted almonds, cashews, or peanuts at this stand. Experience another one of the iconic foods of New York City.
Location: Times Square, New York, NY
Conclusion
New York City’s food scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself. New York City offers legendary pizza slices. It also boasts beloved bagels. These iconic foods give a true taste of the city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, you should indulge in these classic dishes. They promise an authentic Big Apple experience.
If you’d like more suggestions on iconic foods to try in other cities, look at our guide. You can find it here: The 10 Best Traditional Foods to Try in London.