New York City is a paradise for food lovers, offering an unparalleled diversity of culinary experiences. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there are some iconic eats you simply cannot miss. Here's a curated guide to some of the best food spots in NYC, from high-end delis to budget-friendly food trucks.
Katz's Delicatessen
You can't leave NYC without trying Katz's Delicatessen. Famous for its pastrami sandwiches, this place serves up what many consider the best pastrami sandwich in history. It's a bit pricey at $30, but the portion is generous, and the flavor is unforgettable. Check it out on Google Maps.
![chalo-gallardo-_FJFYKnB0zM-unsplash.jpg chalo-gallardo-_FJFYKnB0zM-unsplash.jpg](/t5/image/serverpage/image-id/117269i354CE9FAF6275E88/image-size/large?v=v2&px=999)
Shake Shack and Best Burger
When it comes to unique and high-quality fast food, Shake Shack is ten steps above the rest. Known for its delicious burgers, shakes, and fries, Shake Shack offers a gourmet fast food experience that you won't forget. Find it here.
![subhaan-saleem-so4Syln9Pvk-unsplash.jpg subhaan-saleem-so4Syln9Pvk-unsplash.jpg](/t5/image/serverpage/image-id/117270iF329C2001EFF872B/image-size/large?v=v2&px=999)
but although I haven't tried it yet, reviews and word of mouth suggest this place has the best burger in NYC:
Bagels and Lox
For a classic NYC breakfast, head to the top bagel shops. While you can splurge on bagels with lox, it's worth every penny. These bagels are ubiquitous in the city, but some shops stand out for their exceptional quality. Here's a great place to start.
![girl-with-red-hat-LZW4V8FVH1w-unsplash.jpg girl-with-red-hat-LZW4V8FVH1w-unsplash.jpg](/t5/image/serverpage/image-id/117271i415507F19DCE1E2A/image-size/large?v=v2&px=999)
Chinatown's Culinary Gems
Chinatown offers some of the best and most affordable dining experiences in NYC. Two top restaurants to try for my perspective are:
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, this place is excellent:
For those are even shorter with budget, this is a great choice:
![wes-hicks-Q_CmcYcMSKo-unsplash (1).jpg wes-hicks-Q_CmcYcMSKo-unsplash (1).jpg](/t5/image/serverpage/image-id/117272i12490C4EE463C7DF/image-size/large?v=v2&px=999)
Cheesecake in NYC
Heading north, you'll find some of the best cheesecakes in the city. The top spot for cheesecake is here, with a close second being this location.
![kalisha-ocheni-_BBTqanOrBI-unsplash.jpg kalisha-ocheni-_BBTqanOrBI-unsplash.jpg](/t5/image/serverpage/image-id/117273iD48A1F95B28C53D7/image-size/large?v=v2&px=999)
Best Food Stall
For an iconic NYC street food experience, there's a food stall that's considered the best in the city. Despite the 30-40 minute wait, it's worth it, and for just $10, you'll leave feeling super full. Check it out.
I also made a blog about it here in the SAP Community.
Affordable Pizza
NYC is known for its dollar slices, but for the best cheap pizza, this spot stands out:
I love art and this slice is perfect before or after the MoMa. If you are passionate of TV series round the corner there is the reference bar from How I Met Your Mother.
![peter-bravo-de-los-rios-OklpRh8-Sns-unsplash.jpg peter-bravo-de-los-rios-OklpRh8-Sns-unsplash.jpg](/t5/image/serverpage/image-id/117274i0B27E1D1365F4CAC/image-size/large?v=v2&px=999)
Financial District Food Trucks
The Financial District is home to some great food trucks. Usually at lunch a lot of people used to eat from a food truck. I worked for a while here and I often ate at an:
And my favorite is an excellent falafel truck nearby that's worth seeking out but it's not on the maps. It is in the Zuccotti Park check it out.
![arthur-osipyan-A8odL84U15w-unsplash.jpg arthur-osipyan-A8odL84U15w-unsplash.jpg](/t5/image/serverpage/image-id/117276iCA51957487CDF519/image-size/large?v=v2&px=999)
Embark on this culinary adventure and experience the diverse flavors that make New York City a food lover's dream. Enjoy!