Culinary Exploration: The New York Food Scene

New York City Food Guide

During my numerous trips to New York City as a tour guide, I was able to experience the food scene in depth. My New York meal often started with a breakfast buffet at the hotel - a good start for the long walks through the city. At lunch, however, time was short, so I often grabbed a quick snack from a food truck or a pizza "to go". However, when I had the opportunity, I liked to take the time for a long lunch in a nice restaurant in New York City with a view. In the evening, a visit to the theater on Broadway was often planned. Then the pre-theater dinners in the nearby restaurants were perfect because they offered us delicious menus and were also affordable. This way I experienced New York's diversity in a culinary way, even with limited time.

 

 

Where to eat in New York

The answer to the question of where New Yorkers eat is not that simple. Which restaurant in New York City is worth visiting? There are numerous options. New York City is a paradise for foodies! New Yorkers eat street food as well as sandwiches or salads in delis. You can eat well in steakhouses or fine dining restaurants. Or are you more interested in a great meal with a view? Roof-top bars are also places where you can try typical New York food. Or would you like to try the latest pastry creations in a café in New York. As tour guide I was often out and about in New York looking for new food trends and restaurants. Whether you love street food, are looking for fine dining or just want to discover the best steakhouses in the city - I have put together the best tips for you here.

What do you have to eat in New York?

There are some Specialties that are typical for New York. We present them in detail in this article. You can find what you must eat in New York in the following restaurants, among others. Check out our New York insider tips for foodies. We asked travel bloggers who have been to New York and add our own tips. Here you are guaranteed to find one or two culinary tips for your own New York trip. We give restaurant recommendations as well as tips on where to find New York specialties. There are also tips for Breweries in New York.

 

 

New York Restaurants Tips for Steakhouses

For all foodies and pleasure travelers, we have put together the best New York restaurant tips for steak lovers here.

Gallagher's Steakhouse

New Yorkers like to eat steaks. You can find them in all regions of Manhattan. When I travel to New York, a visit to Gallagher's Steakhouse is an absolute must. Nowhere else is steak as perfect as there. The first steakhouse on Broadway was Gallagher's (228 W 52nd St). It was founded by Helen Gallagher, a former Ziegfeld Girl, and Jack Solomon in 1927. That was the time of Prohibition. Gallagher's is said to have had the first New York strip steak on the menu. Gallagher's is also known for its freezer chamber with glass windows. Behind it, restaurant guests can see the steaks that are “ripening” there for consumption.

The porterhouse steak was a tradition. Many believe that this was also first served in New York. In 2013, the steakhouse changed owners. The owner renovated the restaurant... and put the porterhouse steak back on the menu when it reopened in 2014. The new owner carried out a comprehensive restoration that returned it to its original state as a "speakeasy" steakhouse from the 1940s and 50s. In addition to the classics such as steak and potatoes, Gallagher's now also offers modernized dishes such as tuna tartare and Italian influences such as burrata with roasted peppers and clams casino. Gallagher's is a good restaurant in New York City for "pre-theater dinners" on Broadway.

Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse

Another well-known steakhouse in Manhattan is Smith & Wollensky (corner of 49th Street & 3rd Avenue). When I visited New York, I first noticed it because of the building in which it is located. I only visited it later. Its founders Alan Stillman and Ben Benson chose this house because of its beautiful facade. There are now Smith & Wollensky Steakhouses in numerous cities in the USA. Many of them have the familiar white and green facade of the original New York steakhouse. When Stillman sold the Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group, he kept the New York headquarters.

Other good New York steakhouses introduced by Grub Street (in English).

 

 

New York Restaurant Tip: Which famous restaurant in New York City is worth checking out?

There are some restaurants in New York City that are world famous. If you want to treat yourself to something special, then these are certainly a good choice. However, the food in these restaurants also has its price.

The Rainbow Room

On the 65th floor in one of the most famous skyscrapers in New York (30 Rockefeller Center) you can have cocktails in the Rainbow Room in the Sixtyfive bar and enjoy a wonderful view of New York. You can also order dishes from the bistro menu, which are quite affordable. A very special experience is the Spring Brunch, which is served at Easter, Mother's Day and Father's Day. For the steep price of US$ 162, you have a great selection at the Raw Bar, breakfast dishes, the Carving Station, Dim Sum and a fantastic selection of cakes, pies and other pastry specialties.

Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant

The price of the day menu is upscale in the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant (89 E 42nd St) on the lower floor of New York's main train station, Grand Central Station. It features fresh lobster, seafood and oyster delicacies that are served there. You can also order seafood, oyster and lobster sandwiches at lower prices at the counter. A meal in the Grand Central Oyster Bar is definitely an experience.

Delmonico's in the Financial District

Delmonico's, the legendary steakhouse in New York, has reopened in 2023 after a three-year closure and extensive renovations. Following the pandemic-related closure in 2020 and a lengthy legal battle between the previous owners, restaurateurs Dennis Turcinovic and Joseph Licul gained control of the property and signed a new 15-year lease. The restaurant has now reopened to the public under their management.

The interior has been updated by WAVE Design Studios with a modern twist, but retains the historic charm. Chef Edward J. Hong brings a creative mix of new dishes and classics such as the famous Delmonico steak and Lobster Newberg to the menu. The focus remains on fine dining and a unique New York flair that is intended to appeal to both traditional guests and a new generation.

 

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Trendy Restaurant New York Tips

If you are looking for the hottest restaurants, you will find the best addresses for an unforgettable culinary experience in our Trendy Restaurant New York tips.

Nobu New York Downtown

What do Hollywood actor Robert De Niro, sushi chef Nobu Matsuhisa, producer Meir Teper and restaurateur Drew Nieporent have in common? Very easy. They like (or create) Japanese cuisine in a class of their own. Nobu made a classic education to become a sushi chef. Through his travels and stays abroad, he expanded his skills. He created a new trend in Japanese cuisine, which he celebrates today in his many restaurants around the world. Nobu New York Downtown (195 Broadway) is the first restaurant to create a global chain of restaurants and hotels with De Niro, Meir Teper and Drew Nieporent. To eat there is not necessarily a cheap treat, but certainly a special experience.

Momofuku Noodle Bar

Do you like noodles and noodle soup? Then you are at the right place at Momofuku. There are two Momofuku noodle bars in New York: one in The Shops at Columbus Circle (10's Columbus Circle), the other - the original - in the East Village (planned: at the Pier 17 Building on South Street Seaport). The specialty in both are Ramen soups with Momofuku noodles made from barley flour. The menu changes daily.

Here you can enjoy the view of New York without eating

In New York eat with a view

It is a special pleasure in New York if you can enjoy a great view during the meal. There are a number of restaurants where this is possible. One we present here:

The River Café

Probably one of the most famous restaurants that offers a great view of New York is the River Café (One Water Street, Brooklyn) in Brooklyn. The restaurant is located beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. I liked eating there because you can see the bridge and the New York skyline all the way to the Statue of Liberty while you eat. The fact that The River Café is the proud owner of a Michelin star makes dining at this restaurant a special treat. Reservations are recommended: Tel. 718-522-5200

 

 

Lunch in Manhattan - it has to be quick

Since steakhouses and fine-dining restaurants aren't the cheapest options for eating in New York, New Yorkers have turned to other options instead. Fast food, street food and baking specialties that can be quickly eaten while walking have proven to be particularly suitable for everyday use. A real New Yorker is in a hurry. It was no different when I was in New York. Street food is simply part of it there. As a visitor, you will definitely notice how hectic life is in the Big Apple.

When you first come to New York, it's hard to keep up with New Yorkers. You can almost always recognize tourists by the fact that they move slower through the Big Apple's maze of streets than the locals. This fast-paced lifestyle is affecting the eating habits of residents – and ultimately visitors. The range of food has adapted to this lifestyle.

Lunch is often “on the go” for a New Yorker. It definitely has to be quick. The best way to do this is to get a hot dog, a sandwich, a wrap, a bagel, a muffin, Cookie or buy a cupcake to go. For eating, there are parks or other public places where you can eat your picnic lunch during a short break. Once you get used to the rhythm of life in New York, your picnic will taste better in the High Line Park, on the Hudson River boardwalk, or on a park bench in Battery Park or Central Park than in one of the shops where you buy it. Our tip: buy a packed lunch on your tour of Manhattan and take it with you for a break on the way.

 

 

Empire Diner: A classic with a new look

The Empire Diner, an icon in West Chelsea (210 10th Ave.), combines nostalgic charm with modern flair. Since reopening, the restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxed breakfast, lunch or dinner. Not only classic diner dishes await you here, but also innovative creations.

A look at the menu reveals a diverse selection of dishes. For example, start your day with avocado toast for $18 or the Empire pancakes for $17. For lunch or dinner, you can look forward to the popular Empire Burger for $25, served with cheddar, bacon and homemade fries. Vegetarians also get their money's worth: the Beyond Meat Burger for $26 is a delicious alternative.

For a special recommendation that fits in with our Trendy Restaurant New York picks, try the Truffle Mac & Cheese for $18. The combination of creamy sauce and delicate truffle flavor is a highlight on the menu.

 

 

Where to eat cheap in New York

Good New York Delis

Katz's Delicatessen

Pastrami at its best

New Yorker's favorite sandwich is the pastrami sandwich. Pastrami, is a meat made by smoking, curing and preserving in a delicious spicy breading. Mostly beef breast. Sounds not so tempting? OK. That's what happened to me when I got the invitation from a New Yorker. Located in New York's Lower East Side Katz's Delicatessen is certainly the place to get to know the best, juiciest and tenderest pastrami sandwich. More than five warm and still dripping slices and a dollop of yellow, coarse Mostrich lie between the slices of white bread. These are served with crisp cucumbers.

The ambience seems a bit cold. It's noisy. You feel transported to another time. The staff is more businesslike than overly friendly. That's just New York. I see framed photos on the walls. Tons. Well-known faces and celebrities from culture and politics. Oh yes. And then I know the shop from somewhere! Didn't Harry & Sally eat the pastrami sandwich here in the movie scene that is remembered by the whole world? Yes. It was here.

You can not miss the Deli, still run since 1888, on E Houston St at the corner of Clinton St. The dominating red neon sign already screams from the distance and vies for attention.
If you are traveling without a car, the closest metro station, 2 Avenue Station, is about 300 meters walk from the destination.

Sylwia of Born4Travel contributed this tip. There's nothing better to eat in New York.

New York food prices

• breakfast: A simple breakfast, such as a bagel with coffee, currently costs about $4 to $7. A bagel sandwich (e.g. with egg and cheese) costs about $5 to $8. A full breakfast with a croissant, fruit, and coffee could cost between $8 and $12.
• Lunch: A typical lunch item at a basic restaurant, such as a burger or sandwich, can cost around $10 to $15. Food truck fare, such as gyros or tacos, tends to cost $5 to $10 per serving, while a large, high-quality slice of pizza costs around $3 to $5.50.
• Dinner and breakfast: In a simple restaurant, evening prices for burgers or sushi can rise to $15-$20. Alternatively, street food options and food trucks continue to offer cheaper meals between $8-$12.
• Drinks and snacks: A pint of water from a street vendor costs about $1 to $2. High-quality hot drinks, such as cappuccinos, are about $4 to $6.

 

 

Discover good food on a New York Food Tour

Nolita Food Tour

An absolute must as a food crazed traveler in New York is to visit Little Italy. There is a problem there however - the restaurants and delicatessen are mostly designed for tourist requirements. But if you go only a few hundred meters outside of this epicenter, you will get to know a completely new food scene.

I went on a food tour through North of Little Italy (short Nolita) and got to know the true and authentic New York. The clocks tick differently here - more relaxed and less touristy. That doesn't detract from the delicacies, because they are almost always better than in their big sister Little Italy. Most of the legendary movie “The Godfather” was shot here. Incidentally, based on a true story! At that time Nolita was the center of the Italian Mafia and part of Little Italy. It wasn't until the 90s that the neighborhood was re-christened but not changed significantly.

Where to eat in Nolita

A must in Nolita is the pizza in Emporio Ristorante, preferably the white pizza without tomato sauce. Next up, treat yourself to a Brooklyn Blackout Cupcake (named because of the major power outage), which is so famous that it is dubbed the best in the USA by various food critics. If you are still hungry you have to make a detour to the tartinery. They have fresh sourdough bread with different toppings (I tried chicken with pistachio). The crowning glory is the homemade salted caramel gelato from Il Buco Alimentari & Vineria!

Jessica writes about culinary surprises, cooking classes and food tours around the world on her blog Yummy Travel. Always with a touch of culture and the focus on slow travel and individual travel.

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Enjoy the views from Roof Top Bars

Of course, a nice drink is the perfect way to end an exciting day in a city. And especially in Manhattan, it is worthwhile to visit one of the countless Roof Top Bars. Only which ones? And how to decide?

A Roof Top Bar Tour visits three different rooftops with an international group. Ideal for exchanging tips with other travelers in addition to the great views of Manhattan at night. We meet near the Times Square in a coffee and will be welcomed there by the friendly "tour guides". It is a bit strange at first that a bus travels the few blocks, but on the one hand the group stays together and on the other hand the girls in the sometimes adventurously high heels are in a good mood.

We visited three rooftop bars in the area between Times Square and Empire State Building. Each bar includes a drink and you spend about an hour listening to local lounge music and enjoying the view before heading to the next stop. In the last bar, the guides say goodbye and you can still comfortably end the evening with the other participants or continue to party. The style of the bars went from modern-glazed to "hipster-ig" bronzed, so something for everyone. Good restaurants in Times Square we also present here.

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One of the rooftop bars introduces Ulli Jeute:

 

 

Manhattan skyline at night

The view of the Manhattan skyline is something very special by day. Anyone who walked over the Brooklyn Bridge once and turned around 90 degrees knows what I'm talking about.
In 2017 I was alone in NYC and Brooklyn for a few days and wanted to enjoy this view. In the middle of the party mile, almost directly on the banks of the East River, the wonderfully stylish ambience of the Whyte Hotel and its rooftop "The Ides Bar" is hidden behind red brick tiles.

The outdoor area is spacious. Small seats and bar tables offer plenty of opportunities to make yourself comfortable. For me the perfect place to have a drink on a mild summer night and enjoy a magnificent view of the Manhattan skyline. From time to time you can hear the horn of an evening cruise ringing, which gives the whole thing a pinch of adventure and a sense of freedom. I was willing to dig a little deeper into my pocket for that.

Ulrike Jeute aka Little Bigvoyager stands for the travel blog for the whole family. In addition to many small and large trips with the family, also times for two or just alone. As in real life - the mix makes it.

 

 

New York Restaurant Insider Tips

New York City is a foodie's paradise, and there are plenty of culinary gems to discover off the beaten path. So here are some of our favorite insider tips for New York restaurants to try on your next visit:

1. Foxface Natural

This East Village restaurant offers an ever-changing menu of creative dishes made from seasonal ingredients. The intimate atmosphere and innovative creations make every visit an experience.

• Address: 189 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
• Website

2nd Rezdôra

For lovers of Italian cuisine, Rezdôra is a must. This Michelin-starred restaurant serves handmade pasta and authentic dishes from Emilia-Romagna. The combination of traditional techniques and modern flavors is impressive.

• Address: 27 East 20th Street, New York, NY 10003
• Website

Restaurant Yuu

Located in Brooklyn's Greenpoint, Restaurant Yuu combines French cuisine with Japanese influences. The tasting menu offers a unique fusion of both cuisine styles in an elegant setting.

• Address: 55 Nassau Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11222
• Website

frenchette

Instead, this Tribeca bistro combines classic French cuisine with modern twists. Its relaxed atmosphere and carefully prepared dishes make it a favorite among locals.

• Address: 241 West Broadway, New York, NY 10013
• Website

These restaurants offer unique culinary experiences that will make your stay in New York unforgettable.

More sources for the best restaurants in NYC

• Time Out New York: This page lists the current best restaurants in New York and provides detailed descriptions and reviews from experts.
• The Infatuation: This page provides a list of the best restaurants in New York with detailed reviews and tips.
• Eater New York: This site is known for its comprehensive restaurant reviews and dining recommendations. It offers a detailed overview of the best restaurants in different parts of New York.
• You can also find good desserts in the best Icecream Shops of New York.

 

 

Current food trends in New York City

fusion cuisine

Fusion cuisine is currently experiencing a boom in New York. Here, flavors from Asia, Latin America and Europe are combined in new dishes. We often discover creative combinations, such as sushi tacos or Korean BBQ tacos. These dishes reflect the multicultural soul of the city. If you want to get involved in food trends, you should visit the food markets and local bistros. There we find the most innovative ideas and sample the global influences that shape New York's scene.

street food trucks

Street food trucks in New York offer a constantly changing variety of international dishes. Here we try Asian dumplings, Mexican tacos or Arabic falafel - often at one stand. Street food trucks can be found all over the city and offer us culinary experiences right at our fingertips. A favorite are the food truck parks, where several trucks come together. This way we discover even more exciting dishes and the trends that shape New York.

Vegan and vegetarian options

Vegan and vegetarian options are becoming increasingly important in New York. We are now discovering plant-based burgers, pizza without animal products and creative vegetable creations everywhere. Even the traditional delis now offer vegan options and the food markets have special stands for plant-based dishes. This diversity makes it easy for us to keep finding new, purely plant-based and exciting flavors. For us, this means more choice and even more culinary experiences in the city.

 

 

Questions and answers about New York food

Where can I find good street food in New York?

Popular street food stalls can be found in areas such as Times Square, Central Park, SoHo, Union Square and along 5th Avenue. Food truck events like Smorgasburg in Brooklyn are also recommended.

Which international cuisines are particularly well represented in New York?

New York is known for its culinary diversity. Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Indian, Korean and Jewish cuisines are particularly well represented.

How do I find good, inexpensive restaurants in New York?

To find cheap restaurants, it pays to venture out of the tourist areas and look for local recommendations in neighborhoods like the East Village, Chinatown, Astoria, or Jackson Heights.

Where is the best place to have breakfast or brunch in New York?

New York offers numerous breakfast and brunch options. Cafes and bakeries in neighborhoods like SoHo, West Village, Williamsburg, and Park Slope are often known for their excellent deals.

Are there any recommended vegetarian or vegan restaurants in New York?

Yes, New York has a great selection of vegetarian as well vegan restaurants. Popular neighborhoods for such establishments include Greenwich Village, East Village, Chelsea and Williamsburg.

Where can I eat authentic New York style pizza in New York?

New York pizza can be found in many pizzerias in the city. Famous pizzerias like Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn, Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village and Prince Street Pizza in SoHo are good places to go.

What food festivals and events are held in New York?

There are also numerous culinary festivals in New York, such as the New York City Wine & Food Festival, NYC Restaurant Week, Taste of Tribeca and the Smorgasburg Food Market at the World Trade Center, in Williamsburg or in Brooklyn.

Where can I find rooftop bars in New York with good food and a view?

Rooftop bars with good food and a view can be found, for example, at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, The Press Lounge or the Ophelia Lounge. These also offer a combination of food, drinks and panoramic views.

How can I find authentic ethnic cuisine in New York?

To enjoy authentic ethnic cuisine, visit neighborhoods with a high concentration of certain cultures, such as Chinatown for Chinese cuisine, Little Italy for Italian cuisine, or Jackson Heights for Indian and South American dishes.

 

 

 

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Do you know this?

• Observation Decks in New York City
• Why a New York City Pass is useful
• New York Tour on the Big Bus
• Plan your New York trip: Booking tips for flights and accommodation
• The best time to visit New York
• New York Helicopter Flight
• Christmas in New York City - the most beautiful places at Christmas time

 

Source Restaurant in New York City: On-site research as a tour guide in New York and the travel tips of the contributing travel bloggers. Our opinion is definitely our own.

Text Restaurant in New York City: © Copyright Monika Fuchs, TravelWorldOnline and the travel blogger colleagues mentioned in the article
Photos restaurant in New York City © Copyright Monika Fuchs, TravelWorldOnline as well as the travel blogger colleagues and Unsplash mentioned in the article
Video © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline