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10 Tasty Foods You Can Enjoy in New York as a Tourist 2023

Exploring the Culinary Delights of New York: 10 Tasty Foods to Try as a Tourist




New York City is known for its bustling energy and bustling streets, and its diverse culinary scene is no exception. From classic New York deli sandwiches to the city's famous pizza, there's something for everyone in the many eateries and restaurants in the city. Whether you're a tourist looking to sample the many culinary delights of New York or a local looking for something different, you won't be disappointed. In this article, we'll explore 10 of the most delicious and iconic foods to try in NYC, from regional specialties to classic comfort foods. From traditional Jewish dishes to the city's renowned street foods, we'll take a tour of the city's culinary culture and discover the best of the best. We'll explore the history and flavors of each dish and provide some useful tips and tricks to make sure you fully enjoy each and every bite. So let's start exploring!


Overview of Typical New York Cuisine


  1. Bagels and Lox – As an iconic food of New York, bagels and lox are a must-try. Freshly-baked bagels topped with cream cheese, bagel-cured salmon, and a variety of vegetables like sliced cucumbers, red onions, and tomatoes are a delicious and easy snack.
  2. Pizza - Who doesn't love a classic New York-style pizza? Thin, crispy crust topped with melted cheese and a variety of toppings, this food is a favorite among everyone. Whether you like a classic cheese slice or a specialty version, you can find pizza almost anywhere in the city.
  3. Cheesecake - Thanks to New York's Jewish population, cheesecake is a must-try food. This creamy dessert is often made with ricotta cheese and can be served plain or with toppings such as chocolate, fruit, or nuts.
  4. Seafood - New York City is surrounded by water, so seafood is a popular choice. Lobster rolls, steamed mussels and clams, and fried seafood platters, are all popular choices.
  5. Pastrami Sandwich - Another classic New York City cuisine, pastrami sandwiches can be found in almost any deli in the city. Slow-cooked beef is served on rye bread with mustard and pickles for a salty, flavorful sandwich.
  6. Chinese Food - New York City has many Chinese restaurants, where you can find some of the best dishes in the country. Not only do these restaurants have classic dishes like General Tso's chicken, but they also often have unique regional dishes like Peking duck.
  7. Hot Dogs - Another popular New York street food, hot dogs can be found on street corners throughout the city. Whether you like them with ketchup and mustard or a classic New York-style toppings such as sauerkraut and onions, these hot dogs are a must-try when you visit NYC.
  8. Breakfast Sandwiches - New York City is known for its breakfast sandwiches. Whether you like an egg and cheese or a classic bagel sandwich, there are plenty of options to choose from.
  9. Jamaican Cuisine – New York has a thriving Caribbean population, so Jamaican cuisine is plentiful. Try dishes such as jerk chicken, curried goat, and plantain for a unique taste.
  10. Kebabs - Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine is popular in New York City, so you can find plenty of delicious kebab dishes. Popular choices include chicken, beef, or lamb shish kebabs served with a variety of sauces and sides.


Picking the Best Restaurants for a Memorable Meal



When traveling to a new city, one of the most exciting aspects is getting to explore the local restaurants and local flavors. Therefore, when visiting New York as a tourist, there are plenty of delicious dishes to try from the various restaurants in the city. Whether you are looking for a casual bite to eat or a more upscale dining experience, here are ten tasty dishes you can enjoy in New York.


  • Pizza: The classic New York style pizza is something that every tourist must try. With its thin, crispy crust and generous amounts of cheese and delicious toppings, pizza is a great meal for any occasion.
  • Bagels: Another New York staple is bagels with cream cheese. Freshly-made bagels are just what you need to get your morning started right!
  • Cheesecake: Many people think of New York-style cheesecake when they think of this delicious dessert. The classic creamy cheesecake is a must-try when visiting New York.
  • Hot Dogs: Whether you are at a street vendor or sit-down restaurant, a classic hot dog is a great snack to enjoy in New York.
  • Italian: Italian food is well-represented in New York City. From classic dishes such as lasagna and spaghetti Bolognese to gourmet dishes such as eggplant Parmesan, there is an Italian dish for everyone in the city.
  • Chinese: In addition to Italian cuisine, New York has plenty of delicious Chinese food to enjoy. Whether you are in the mood for dim sum or an authentic Chinese dinner, New York has it all.
  • Mexican: Mexican food is also popular in New York. From classic tacos and nachos to more complex dishes, Mexican cuisine is an excellent way to enjoy a unique meal.
  • Seafood: With its close proximity to the ocean, New York offers plenty of fresh seafood. From oysters and clams to lobster and crab, seafood lovers will be delighted with the variety of choices in New York.
  • Greek: Greek food is becoming increasingly popular in New York. Try classic dishes like spanakopita or a gyro for a delicious Mediterranean meal.
  • Steak: Steakhouses are another common sight in New York City. Whether you’re looking for a dry-aged steak or a more traditional steak dinner, there are plenty of steakhouses in the city to choose from.


These are just some of the many delicious dishes you can enjoy while visiting New York as a tourist. With so many options, it can be hard to choose where to go. However, if you do your research, you can be sure to pick the best restaurants for a memorable meal.


Traditional Dishes to Try in New York


  1. Pizza: Ask any New Yorker what the quintessential food of New York is and the chances are that you'll hear about pizza. New York-style pizza is known for its thick, chewy crust and slices that are larger than their counterparts in other parts of the country. If you're looking for the classic taste of New York pizza, head to legendary establishments such as Lombardi's, Patsy's, or Di Fara.
  2. Cheesecake: New York cheesecake has a rich, creamy texture and a subtle sweetness. It's different from regular cheesecake because it is made without flour and has more of a custard base. Junior's and Eileen's Special Cheesecake are two of the most well-known bakeries offering the classic taste of New York cheesecake.
  3. Bagel: Another New York food staple is the bagel. New York-style bagels are boiled and then baked, giving them a crispy exterior and chewy interior. The classic accompaniment to a bagel is cream cheese and lox, a type of smoked salmon. The renowned Bagel Hole in Park Slope is worth a visit for a taste of this classic.
  4. 4. Deli Sandwich: Eating a deli sandwich is a great way to sample the classic New York flavors. Head to any classic deli, such as the 2nd Avenue Deli or Katz's Delicatessen, for a pastrami sandwich with mustard, a corned beef sandwich with sauerkraut, or a hot brisket sandwich.
  5. Hot Dog: A hot dog is the quintessential New York street food. Look for the carts along the streets of New York City, where you can get a jumbo hot dog topped with onions, sauerkraut, and mustard.
  6. Chinese Food: New York City is home to some of the best Chinese restaurants in the US. Chinatown is an excellent destination for a taste of authentic Chinese dishes such as Peking duck, dumplings, and noodles.
  7. Italian Food: You can also find some of the best Italian food in the world in New York. Enjoy a plate of classic pasta dishes such as spaghetti carbonara, fettuccine Alfredo, and lasagna.
  8. Thai Food: New York is also home to some great Thai restaurants. Look for dishes such as pad thai, green curry chicken, and tom yum soup.
  9. Soul Food: For a taste of traditional Southern cooking, head to a soul food spot in Harlem. Enjoy classic dishes such as fried chicken, collard greens, and macaroni and cheese.
  10. Street Food: New York has a vibrant street food scene with vendors serving up a variety of dishes. Look for falafel, tacos, dumplings, and more. There's something for everyone, so you're sure to find something to enjoy.


Unique Dining Experiences in the City



  • Dim Sum: Dim sum is a classic Chinese cuisine that is readily available throughout New York City. It is typically served in small bite-sized portions and includes dishes like steamed dumplings, barbecue pork buns, and scallion pancakes. Dim sum is usually served with tea, making it a perfect companion to any sightseeing adventure.
  • Sushi: New York City is home to many sushi restaurants. Whether you’re after a traditional omakase-style sushi experience or something more modern, there’s something for everyone. Look out for top-notch nigiri, sashimi, and rolls in the city.
  • Pizza: Few foods are as iconic to New York as pizza. From classic thin crust slices to inventive gourmet pies, you’ll find every type of pizza imaginable in the city. Be sure to pay a visit to one of the classic New York pizza parlors for a genuine slice of the Big Apple.
  • Bagels: Bagels are a beloved staple of New York City and can be found on nearly every street corner. You should be sure to try a classic everything bagel with cream cheese, lox, capers, and tomato. Alternatively, opt for a blueberry bagel topped with butter or cream cheese.
  • Korean BBQ: Korean BBQ is a delicious style of cooking where diners cook their own food at their table. Look out for restaurants that offer a selection of meats like beef, pork, and chicken, and a variety of side dishes including kimchi, rice, and pickled vegetables.
  • Hot Dogs: Hot dogs are a quintessential New York street food. Street vendors typically serve beef-and-pork hot dogs with all kinds of toppings, like mustard, ketchup, relish, onions, and chili. Look for the classic carts or hit up an outdoor kiosk for other varieties.
  • Ramen: Ramen is a popular Japanese noodle dish. NYC has plenty of ramen restaurants with a variety of classic and creative offerings. You can find classic soy- and miso-based bowls or opt for something more inventive.
  • Cheesecake: Cheesecake is another New York City classic. Look for the traditional New York-style cheesecake or go for something more creative. You’ll find everything from Oreo and chocolate-covered cheesecakes to vegan cashew-cream versions.
  • Italian: Italian food is another staple of New York City. Look for classic pasta dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, and ravioli, or opt for something fancier like veal Parmesan or fettucine Alfredo.
  • Ice Cream: New York City is home to a variety of ice cream shops. From classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate to bold and experimental creations, you’ll find no shortage of ways to cool off in the summer.

Recommendations for Food-Lovers Traveling to New York

  • Bagels and Cream Cheese:This classic New York staple is a must-try for any food-lover visiting the city. New York is home to some of the best bagel shops in the world, with authentic, fresh and delicious bagels. Try them with a variety of cream cheese and other sandwich toppings for a unique and unforgettable experience.
  • Pizza: Everybody knows that New York has some of the best pizza in the world, so it's an absolute must-try for any tourist. Whether you're in the heart of Manhattan or the outer boroughs, you'll be able to find delicious pizza shops with a variety of toppings and styles. Don't be afraid to try some at different places and compare, as there can be a huge difference from one pizza place to the next.
  • Hot Dogs: A true New York classic, the hot dog is a must-try for any tourist visiting the city. From traditional cart vendors to gourmet shops, you have an array of styles to choose from. Some places even offer unique variations on the classic hot dog, so be sure to explore your options.
  • Tacos: Yes, it's true - tacos have made a big splash in New York City! With both traditional taco shops and trendy restaurants offering high-end dining experiences, you can find a wide variety of tacos to enjoy. There are also plenty of taco trucks offering delicious, freshly prepared tacos and burritos around the city.
  • Italian Food: From classic pastas to modern takes on Italian food, New York is home to a wealth of Italian restaurants. Whether you're looking for a cozy Italian bistro or a chic and modern eatery, you'll be able to find what you're looking for.
  • Chinese Food: New York is home to some of the best Chinese food in the world. From traditional Chinese restaurants to more modernized eateries, you'll be able to find everything from dim sum to dumplings.
  • Delis: New York is home to some of the best delis in the world, offering an array of sandwiches, salads, and side dishes. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite to eat on the go or sitting down for a meal, you can find delicious deli food throughout the city.
  • Burgers: It wouldn't be a trip to New York without trying the city's famous burgers. From the classic diner burger to the more modern takes offered by trendy burger joints, you'll be able to find a burger to satisfy every craving.
  • Sushi: If you're a sushi lover, then you'll love New York! There are plenty of sushi restaurants in the city, ranging from traditional sushi bars to modern eateries. From basic sushi rolls to high-end sushi platters, you'll be able to find something to please everyone.
  • Desserts: New York is home to some of the best desserts in the world. From classic New York cheesecakes to trendy ice cream sandwiches, the city has something for everyone. So don't forget to save room for dessert after your meal!

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