When it comes to one of the best things that New York has to offer, it’s more secret that food is one of them! Whether you’re looking for something sweet to eat or something salty and savory, there are a plethora of New York foods out there for you to try!
If you’ve read my piece on getting started on your bucket list of NY foods, then you know the legacy that the city holds in the food industry! However, I decided to take that list to the next level and give you even more foods that you can try!
What Are Some Of The Iconic New York Foods
Because of all of the different cultures that the city brings together, it results in some pretty amazing food! Travel down to Little Italy for some of the best gelatos you’ve ever had or spend the day trying out some of the best pizza in the world!
In terms of what you need to try when you’re visiting, it’s hard to narrow it down to one list. I could talk about the food that the city has to offer all day. However, I’ve tried my best to narrow it down to the top 15 New York foods that you absolutely need to try!
1. New York Style Pizza
I’m starting this list off with one of the more obvious famous foods in the city! As I always say, if you’re never had a slice of New York pizza, then you’ve never had good pizza. If there’s anywhere that knows how to do pizza best, it’s New York.
2. Warm Baked Pretzels
I’m sure you’ve had one of these delicious salty snacks at a baseball game or a concert! Pick one up on your commute or next time you’re on the go. I promise you won’t be disappointed and it will not be your last time!
3. Bacon Egg & Cheese
This classic breakfast sandwich is offered and served in many different places. However, as with most of the foods on this list, it is particularly a New York specialty. This greasy and delicious New York food has become a staple in every New Yorker’s diet!
4. Hot Dogs
Ah, the classic street corner hot dogs. One of the best things about these delicious things is the fact that they’re so cheap! In a rush and didn’t have time to eat dinner? A hot dog topped with mustard and sauerkraut and can really hit the spot!
5. Bagels
Nothing tastes quite as good as a New York bagel! According to popular belief, what makes a New York bagel so good is its soft texture because they’re baked with low levels of magnesium and calcium! A bagel and coffee is the perfect go-to breakfast!
6. Cronut
One of the newer New York foods is the cronut! Invented in 2013, by pastry chef Dominique Ansel, this delicious food looks like a donut, but it’s made of croissant dough and topped with icing!
7. Nuts 4 Nuts
As I mentioned in my short guide bucket list, you have to try Nuts 4 Nuts while you’re in NY! These delicious candied nuts are a classic food cart staple. I’m sure you’ve smelled them before on New York street corners!
8. Rainbow Bagels
Another amazing New York food is the rainbow bagel. A colorful take on an already classic food, a rainbow bagel is just something to really enjoy what you’re eating!
9. Manhattan Clam Chowder
Another thing that New York seemed to get right again is clam chowder! Manhattan Clam Chowder differs from New England because it uses a tomato base and uses no cream! It’s made with clam, pork, herbs, tomatoes, and other vegetables!
10. Italian Ice
New York style Italian ices are differ from the classic cream ice! Originally coming from Philly, New York has adapted their own style of what is called water ice! It’s the perfect summer treat in NY!
11. Rainbow Cookies
Rainbow cookies originated in New York by its Italian immigrant communities! It pays homage to their country by its colors resembling the Italian flag. These delicious treats are made from almond cake and jam!
12. Ramen
Although this food is not New York-based, there are too many ramen places in New York for me not to mention it! Taking it up a notch from Cup Noodles, traditional ramen has elements such as egg and pork! I recommend Ivan Ramen if it’s your first time trying!
13. Pastrami On Rye
Another thing I mentioned in my other piece is Katz Deli. To be more specific, pastrami on rye! A classic New York pastrami on rye is usually served with brown mustard and a kosher pickle on the side!
14. New York Cheesecake
One of, if not my favorite dessert of all time is cheesecake. And if I can be any more specific, New York style cheesecake! What makes New York cheesecake special is the fact that it’s very cream cheese based, making it very dense and rich! Try out Eileen’s Special Cheesecake or Dominique Ansel Bakery!
15. Papaya King
This classic New York restaurant is known for it’s inexpensive and high quality hot dogs! The name comes from that, as well as the classic drink that they serve, which is a papaya based fruit juice!
The Best Food In The World
You’re now essentially an expert on some of the best New York foods! Whether you’re just in town for a short period of time or you’re here to stay, you need to try these foods out! Feel free to let us know if you tried out any of the foods and spots we mentioned in the comments below!
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