New York City Must Try Foods
New York City is full of iconic eats from street foods like the classic New York slice to bagel shops serving every flavour of bagel known to man. On my most recent trip to the city I delved into some of the viral NYC eats to see if they were worth the hype.
New York Bagels
New York bagels are more than just a breakfast staple—they’re an institution. Known for their perfectly chewy texture and golden crust, these bagels are the result of a process that includes boiling the dough before baking. Many credit the city’s unique tap water for giving New York bagels their signature taste and consistency. Whether you prefer a classic plain bagel slathered with cream cheese or a loaded everything bagel topped with smoked salmon, red onion, and capers, there’s no shortage of options in NYC.
Liberty Bagels - a beloved gem nestled in the heart of Midtown, Liberty Bagels is known for its deliciously fresh and flavourful bagels piled high with fillings. One of their most eye-catching creations is the famous rainbow bagel, which has become an Instagram sensation. I obviously ordered one of those and opted for the strawberry cream cheese to accompany my brightly coloured breakfast. The bagel was visually stunning and tasted amazing. I would say this bagel shop is worth it even if there is a bit of a queue, but I would also recommend checking their mobile app as there were a couple of people who managed to skip the line by ordering online first.
Ess-a-bagel - another highly recommended bagel shop is Ess-a-bagel, this brand has two locations in Manhattan, one on 3rd avenue, the other located near Penn Station in Midtown, This place is renowned for its massive, chewy, and perfectly boiled bagels piled high with different flavoured cream cheeses. Ess-a-Bagel is a great option for a grab and go breakfast in the city.
New York Pizza
New York pizza slices are legendary, and for good reason. Known for their thin, foldable crust, tangy tomato sauce, and just the right amount of gooey mozzarella cheese, a classic New York slice is as iconic as the city itself. Available on nearly every block, these slices are a fast, affordable, and delicious way to refuel while exploring the bustling streets of the Big Apple.
Joes Pizza - Joe's Pizza, a true New York City institution, has been serving up some of the city's best slices since 1975. With several locations across the city, Joe's has earned its legendary status with its simple yet perfect approach to pizza: a thin, crispy crust, a tangy tomato sauce, and a generous layer of mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re grabbing a classic slice or opting for a few of the specialty options, the quality remains consistently high and always delicious!
Grimaldis - Grimaldi’s Pizza in Brooklyn is famous for its coal-fired, brick-oven pizzas that deliver a perfectly crisp, smoky crust. Nestled under the iconic Brooklyn Bridge in DUMBO, this pizzeria has become a go-to destination for locals, tourists, and pizza enthusiasts from around the globe. Using fresh mozzarella, hand-crushed San Marzano tomatoes, and a signature thin crust, Grimaldi’s serves classic pies that capture the essence of authentic New York-style pizza. The old-school charm of the restaurant, combined with its breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, makes it an unforgettable dining experience.
Katzs Delicatessen
Katz’s Delicatessen is a true New York City landmark, renowned for serving some of the most iconic deli fare in the world since 1888. Located on the Lower East Side, this family-owned deli is best known for its towering pastrami sandwiches, piled high with perfectly seasoned, hand-carved meat that practically melts in your mouth. Katz’s is as much about the experience as it is about the food—from the bustling atmosphere to the ticket system at the counter that’s been a part of its charm for over a century. Famous for its role in pop culture, including the unforgettable “I’ll have what she’s having” scene from When Harry Met Sally, Katz’s isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a piece of New York history. Whether you’re a first-timer or a loyal regular, every bite at Katz’s is a flavorful journey through NYC’s culinary heritage.
Magnolia Bakery
Magnolia Bakery is a sweet slice of New York City charm, celebrated for its delectable baked goods and old-school vibe. Since opening its first location in the West Village in 1996, it has become world-famous, thanks in part to its cameo in Sex and the City. While its cupcakes, especially the classic vanilla and chocolate varieties, are the stars of the show, Magnolia’s banana pudding is a must-try—a creamy, dreamy dessert layered with vanilla wafers and fresh bananas that has a cult following of its own.
Levain Bakery
Levain Bakery is a must-visit destination for cookie lovers and anyone with a serious sweet tooth. Founded in 1995 on Manhattan's Upper West Side, this small bakery quickly gained a massive following for its thick, gooey, and irresistibly rich cookies, often described as the best in the city. Their iconic chocolate chip walnut cookie is the star of the menu, but flavors like dark chocolate peanut butter chip and oatmeal raisin have their own devoted fans. Each cookie is baked to perfection, with a crispy outer layer that gives way to a soft, almost molten center. Levain has grown into a citywide sensation with multiple locations, yet it retains its cozy neighborhood vibe.