New York City is an eclectic melting pot of different cultures, having had various influxes of immigrants throughout its history. Not only does this create pockets of vibrant communities, but it also makes for an incredible gastronomic scene. For all the foodies out there, here are ten of the best things to eat in New York City.
1. Pizza
There has always been a stalwart Italian immigrant community in New York City, and pizza is a quintessential New York City eat. The city boasts that it had Lombardi’s, the first pizzeria in the country, open its doors in 1905. Italians introduced the popular thin crust pizza, making it easy to fold in half to devour. Take your pick from $1-slice-joints to more upmarket Italian restaurants.
2. Dumplings
Make sure Chinatown is on your hit list when in New York City! We love wandering its streets with its bustling shops, restaurants and markets. Follow your nose to whichever dumpling restaurant takes your fancy, often with somebody stuffing and pleating tasty morsels in the window. From plump har gao (prawn dumplings) to juicy xiao long bao (soup dumplings), dine in for a traditional yum cha lunch or get some dumplings to take away. Just don’t forget to add the soy sauce and chilli!
3. Bagels
Bagels were first introduced by Jewish immigrants in the 1800’s. We think a local delicatessen or bodega is the best place to buy one for an easy breakfast. First, pick your bagel of choice. Shelves are stacked with freshly baked bagels in all the varieties you can think of – sesame seeds, blueberry, and ‘everything’ seasoning. Then, choose your filling(s). Sometimes simple is best with a classic cream cheese schmear, otherwise a salmon lox bagel is also popular.
4. Hotdog
“Hot dogs, hot dogs, get your hot dogs here!” This phrase can be heard drifting across the crowds at sports games, and it would be rude not to try one. A fluffy bread bun is packed with sausage, onions, occasionally sauerkraut, mustard and tomato sauce. You can also buy a hot dog on nearly every street corner from a food cart.
5. Pretzel
The early 1800’s welcomed Dutch immigrants to New York City, most of whom settled in the New Amsterdam area. With them came their traditional soft pretzel recipe, now a Big Apple favourite. Try it plain with a liberal sprinkling of rock salt, or with a side of cheesy dipping sauce.
6. New York cheesecake
A slice of New York cheesecake is a decadent dessert. Its filling that sits atop a perfectly crunchy Graham cracker crust is made richer with the addition of sour cream or heavy cream. Best enjoyed with a drizzle of fruit compote or chocolate sauce.
7. Matzo ball soup
Another classic Jewish meal, Matzo ball soup is also known as Jewish penicillin for its healing properties. A chicken and vegetable soup is simmered for several hours before bread dumplings are poached in it. It’s perfect for a rainy day in the city.
8. Bakery goods
Photo by voyageenfrancais on Instagram
New York City has some world-famous bakeries. You can smell them before you see them, with droolworthy scents wafting down the street. Special mention goes to:
- Levain Bakery: for their 25-year-old secret recipe for the perfect chocolate chip and walnut cookie
- Magnolia Bakery: for their banana pudding, featuring a vanilla and banana pudding and vanilla wafer for added crunch
- Dominque Ansel Bakery: for inventing the cronut (croissant combined with a donut) obsession that has taken over the world!
9. Manhattan clam chowder
Compared to New England’s cream-based clam chowder, New York’s Manhattan version is tomato-based thanks to its Italian and Portuguese heritage. It also includes vegetables for added textural elements to this hearty soup.
10. Pastrami on rye
A pastrami on rye is the King of New York City sandwiches. Sussman Volk was a Lithuanian immigrant who opened one of the city’s first delicatessens in 1888. Volk perfected this cut of brisket (that is seasoned, brined and cured), served between two slices of dense rye bread, a generous lick of spicy mustard and a pickle on the side.
If you want to discover the best eats in New York City, join us on a Globus or Cosmos tour to the East Coast of the USA.
