The Best Food in NYC: A Culinary Journey

New York City is renowned for many things, and its food scene is undoubtedly one of them. With an incredible array of global cuisines and flavors, from the humble hot dog to the Michelin-starred restaurants, NYC is a food lover’s paradise. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey to discover the best food in NYC, highlighting the must-try dishes and hidden gems that will leave your taste buds tingling.

The Best Pizza 🍕

If you’re a pizza lover, then NYC is the place to be. And when it comes to the best pizza, there’s no shortage of options. Here are our top picks:

1. Di Fara Pizza

Located in Brooklyn, Di Fara Pizza is a must-visit for any pizza enthusiast. The pizzeria has been around since 1965 and is renowned for its delicious, traditional Neapolitan-style pizza. Each pie is made to order, with fresh ingredients and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Be prepared to wait in line, but trust us: it’s worth it.

2. Lombardi’s Pizza

Established in 1905, Lombardi’s Pizza is the oldest pizzeria in the United States. Located in Little Italy, the restaurant serves up delicious, thin-crust pizza with a variety of toppings. Be sure to try the white clam pizza, a NYC classic.

3. Patsy’s Pizzeria

Patsy’s Pizzeria has been around since 1933 and is known for its coal-fired brick oven pizza. Their pies are crispy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. You’ll find several locations throughout the city, so be sure to visit one.

The Best Bagels 🥯

When it comes to bagels, NYC is in a league of its own. From the classic plain bagel with cream cheese to the more elaborate sandwiches, these are our top picks:

1. Russ & Daughters

Russ & Daughters has been a New York City institution since 1914. The bagels here are handmade, chewy, and delicious. Be sure to try their classic bagel with lox and cream cheese.

2. Ess-a-Bagel

Located in Midtown East, Ess-a-Bagel is another NYC staple. Their bagels are large, fluffy, and come in a variety of flavors. They also offer a wide range of cream cheese spreads and sandwich options.

3. Black Seed Bagels

Black Seed Bagels is a relative newcomer to the NYC bagel scene, but they’ve quickly made a name for themselves. Their bagels are a hybrid of the New York and Montreal styles, meaning they’re both chewy and crispy. Try their signature sandwich with pastrami-cured salmon.

The Best Ramen 🍜

Ramen has become a popular dish in NYC, with a variety of Japanese-inspired restaurants popping up throughout the city. Here are the best places to get your ramen fix:

1. Ippudo

Ippudo has several locations throughout the city, and it’s a must-visit for any ramen lover. Their broth is rich and flavorful, and their noodles are always cooked to perfection. Be sure to try the akamaru modern, a signature dish.

2. Totto Ramen

Totto Ramen is a small, cozy restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen that serves up some of the best ramen in the city. Their broth is savory and packed with umami flavors, and their noodles are thick and chewy. Try their spicy paitan ramen for a little heat.

3. Nakamura

Nakamura is a hidden gem in the Lower East Side, known for its rich, pork-based broth and handmade noodles. The restaurant only serves a limited number of bowls each day, so be sure to get there early.

The Best Burgers 🍔

When it comes to burgers, NYC has no shortage of options. From the classic cheeseburger to the more elaborate creations, here are our top picks:

1. Shake Shack

Shake Shack is a beloved NYC institution, known for its juicy burgers and crinkle-cut fries. The ShackBurger is a must-try, topped with lettuce, tomato, and ShackSauce.

2. J.G. Melon

J.G. Melon is a classic NYC restaurant known for its iconic burger. The patty is juicy and flavorful, served on a sesame seed bun with a side of cottage fries.

3. Corner Bistro

Corner Bistro is a no-frills bar in the West Village that serves up one of the best burgers in the city. The Bistro Burger is a classic, with a juicy patty topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles.

The Best Ice Cream 🍦

When it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth, there’s nothing better than a scoop of ice cream. Here are the best ice cream shops in NYC:

1. Ample Hills Creamery

Ample Hills Creamery is a Brooklyn-based ice cream shop with several locations throughout the city. Their ice cream is made from scratch, with unique flavors like Ooey Gooey Butter Cake and The Munchies.

2. Van Leeuwen

Van Leeuwen is another Brooklyn-based ice cream shop with several locations throughout the city. Their ice cream is made with high-quality ingredients, and they offer a range of vegan options.

3. Big Gay Ice Cream

Big Gay Ice Cream is a fun and colorful ice cream shop with several locations throughout the city. Their soft-serve ice cream is topped with unique combinations like sea salt and olive oil, or crushed Nilla Wafers.

FAQs About the Best Food in NYC

1. What is the most iconic food in NYC?

The most iconic food in NYC is undoubtedly pizza. There’s nothing like a slice of hot, cheesy pizza from a classic New York pizzeria.

2. Where can I find the best bagels in NYC?

Our top picks for the best bagels in NYC are Russ & Daughters, Ess-a-Bagel, and Black Seed Bagels.

3. What is the best restaurant in NYC?

It’s hard to pick just one best restaurant in NYC, but some of our favorites are Le Bernardin, Eleven Madison Park, and Per Se.

4. What is the best neighborhood for foodies in NYC?

The best neighborhood for foodies in NYC is undoubtedly Brooklyn. With its diverse array of cuisines and food markets, there’s something for everyone.

5. What is the best time of year to visit NYC for food?

The best time of year to visit NYC for food is in the fall, when the city comes alive with food festivals and seasonal dishes.

6. How much should I budget for food in NYC?

Food prices in NYC can vary greatly, but you should expect to spend at least $50-$100 per day on food if you’re eating out at restaurants.

7. What is the best food tour in NYC?

There are several great food tours in NYC, but some of our favorites are the Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour, the Hell’s Kitchen Dessert Tour, and the Best of Brooklyn Food and Culture Tour.

Conclusion: Follow Your Taste Buds

From classic pizza and bagels to more eclectic dishes like ramen and ice cream, NYC has something for everyone. Follow your taste buds and explore the city’s diverse food scene, and you’re sure to find some amazing flavors and experiences.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your foodie trip to NYC today, and get ready to indulge in some of the best food in the world.

Disclaimer: A Note About COVID-19

Please note that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, some of the restaurants and food establishments mentioned in this article may have limited hours or be closed entirely. We recommend checking with each establishment before visiting, and following all local guidelines and regulations regarding mask-wearing and social distancing.