6 must-try New York food specialties
New York is more than just skyscrapers, landmarks, and museums—you need to experience the local food scene during your visit. Here are 6 authentic New York specialties you shouldn't miss.
1/ The Burger
- What is it? The burger is an icon of American cuisine and a must-try in New York. To experience a real New York burger with genuine flavor, skip the global fast-food chains. Instead, head to small local spots and diners where you’ll find authentic burgers made fresh for you.
- Where to eat a good burger? Try Corner Bistro and Burger Joint. The New York-based chain Shake Shack also stands out for its quality. You’ll find all my top recommendations in the New York restaurant guide.
2/ The Bagel
- What is it? This delicious round bread with a hole in the middle was brought to New York by immigrants from Eastern Europe. Bagels work for breakfast with creamy Philadelphia cream cheese or as a lunch option. Try the smoked salmon bagel—it’s excellent. You can eat bagels cold or toasted, and toasted is even better. They come in many varieties: plain, sesame, everything, and more.
- Where to eat a good bagel? You’ll find bagels throughout New York, but spend a few extra dollars for a fresh, crispy bagel from a bakery. Head to Ess-a-Bagel (831 3rd Avenue) or Absolute Bagels (2788 Broadway).
3/ The Hot Dog
- What is it? Just writing this makes me crave one! The hot dog is inseparable from a baseball game. Try this experience: sitting in the stands with a hot dog in hand while the New York crowd roars. Stadium hot dogs aren’t always the best, but the atmosphere makes all the difference.
- Where to eat a good hot dog? New York’s hot dog king is Nathan’s at Coney Island. Every July 4th, they host the famous hot dog eating contest. In 2016, Californian Joey Chestnut set the record by eating 70 hot dogs. You don’t have to match that!
4/ The Pretzel
- What is it? Pretzels are everywhere in New York. They’re a bit chewy, but the salt brings a sharp flavor that wakes up your taste buds. You won’t eat tons of them, but you absolutely should try one.
- Where to eat a good pretzel? Street vendors throughout the city sell warm pretzels. For the freshest ones, head to the vendors in Midtown—the high volume means faster turnover and fresher pretzels.
5/ The Smoked-Meat Sandwich
- What is it? This is a dish I eat on every trip to New York. The smoked-meat sandwich is a pastrami sandwich from Eastern Europe. Two slices of rye bread spread with spicy mustard hold several layers of thin, smoky meat. It comes with coleslaw and pickles—those delicious, oversized pickles. It’s a flavor-packed meal.
- Where to eat a good smoked-meat sandwich? Katz’s Delicatessen (205 East Houston Street) is the place for smoked-meat sandwiches. Some guides mention Carnegie Deli (854 7th Avenue), but it closed permanently at the end of 2016.
6/ The Lobster Roll
- What is it? Pricier than the other dishes on this list, the Lobster Roll is still a must-try specialty. It’s a lobster preparation served in a hot dog bun. The Lobster Roll is hugely popular in Maine and New Brunswick on the northeastern coast.
- Where to eat a good Lobster Roll? In New York, Chelsea Market is the best place for a Lobster Roll. After that, you’ll be ready to explore the High Line!
Book Your Food Tour in New York!
Want to learn more about New York food specialties? Join our Food Tour New York! This exceptional tour takes you through the East Village, one of New York’s historic neighborhoods, and lets you taste local specialties. A tour full of surprises!