12 Popular NYC Eats You Should Experience At Least Once And 5 All-Time Local Favorites

New York City is a food lover’s playground, where every block offers something new—and often legendary. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’ve lived here forever, there are just some iconic bites you can’t skip. Here are 12 popular NYC eats that are totally worth the hype—plus 5 long-standing local favorites that true New Yorkers never stop craving.

1. A Classic NY Slice from Joe’s Pizza

There’s nothing quite like a thin, foldable slice with crispy edges from Joe’s. Simple, greasy perfection. This iconic bite embodies New York’s vibrant food culture, offering an experience that’s both nostalgic and utterly satisfying. As you take a bite, the balance of cheese and tomato sauce tantalizes your taste buds. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, stopping by Joe’s Pizza is a must, and the long lines outside are a testament to its enduring popularity. A true staple in NYC’s diverse culinary landscape, revered by pizza enthusiasts everywhere.

2. Bagel with Lox and Schmear from Russ & Daughters

This Lower East Side staple makes the ultimate Jewish deli bagel—chewy, fresh, and layered with silky smoked salmon. Each bite is a journey through texture and flavor, combining the richness of lox with the lightness of a perfectly made bagel. Russ & Daughters has been serving this classic combination for over a century, making it an essential part of New York’s culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or brunch, this bagel is a beloved favorite among locals and visitors seeking an authentic taste of NYC.

3. Halal Chicken Over Rice from The Halal Guys

Street cart legend. Grilled chicken, yellow rice, salad, and that iconic white sauce. It hits every time. The Halal Guys have become synonymous with New York’s street food scene, offering a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. The combination of spices and textures makes every bite memorable, keeping customers coming back for more. Located at the corner of 53rd and 6th, this famed cart attracts long lines for a reason. Affordable and delicious, it’s a quintessential NYC dining experience that should not be missed.

4. Black and White Cookie from Zabar’s

Part cake, part cookie, all nostalgia. Half vanilla, half chocolate glaze. New York in baked good form. Zabar’s is renowned for this iconic treat, a sweet reminder of the city’s rich culinary history. The black and white cookie is not just a dessert; it’s a symbol of New York’s diverse heritage, bringing together flavors in perfect harmony. Enjoyed by generations, it’s a simple pleasure that continues to delight. Whether paired with coffee or savored on its own, this cookie is a must-try for anyone exploring NYC’s sweet offerings.

5. Cronut from Dominique Ansel Bakery

A croissant-doughnut hybrid that sparked a global frenzy. Still worth the early line for a taste of pastry history. Dominique Ansel Bakery introduced the world to this innovative treat, blending French pastry techniques with American creativity. The cronut’s crispy exterior and soft, layered interior create a delightful contrast that’s both unique and indulgent. Limited quantities and ever-changing flavors add to its mystique, making each purchase feel special. Since its debut, the cronut has remained a coveted experience, drawing pastry lovers from around the globe.

6. Pastrami on Rye from Katz’s Delicatessen

Thick-cut, hand-carved pastrami on fresh rye with mustard. Juicy, peppery, and totally unforgettable. Katz’s Delicatessen has been serving this legendary sandwich since 1888, becoming a landmark in New York’s culinary scene. Each bite delivers a rich tapestry of flavors, with the pastrami’s smoky warmth complementing the tangy mustard. This iconic sandwich has seen countless celebrity endorsements and has made appearances in popular films, solidifying its status as a cultural icon. A visit to NYC wouldn’t be complete without indulging in this time-honored delicacy.

7. Soup Dumplings from Joe’s Shanghai

Delicate dumplings filled with hot broth and meat. Use your spoon, bite carefully, and enjoy the flavor explosion. Joe’s Shanghai is famed for these culinary gems, offering a taste experience that’s both exciting and comforting. The art of making soup dumplings is intricate, requiring skill and precision to achieve the perfect balance of dough, filling, and broth. As patrons savor these delightful parcels, the bustling atmosphere of Chinatown enhances the experience. A shared joy among locals and tourists alike, these dumplings are a testament to NYC’s diverse culinary offerings.

8. Cheesecake from Junior’s

Creamy, dense, and just the right amount of sweet. The Brooklyn-born cheesecake that set the bar. Junior’s has been delighting dessert lovers since 1950, crafting cheesecakes that are both iconic and indulgent. Each slice offers a smooth, velvety texture that melts in your mouth, complemented by a buttery graham cracker crust. This legendary cheesecake is a staple at family gatherings and celebrations, cherished for its authenticity and quality. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with fresh fruit, Junior’s cheesecake is a quintessential New York dessert experience.

9. Chicken Parm Hero from Parm

Crunchy chicken cutlet, gooey mozzarella, and tangy sauce on a hero roll. It’s classic Italian-American comfort food. Parm, known for its nostalgic nod to classic red-sauce joints, delivers this beloved favorite with flair. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying meal that evokes memories of family dinners at your favorite Italian restaurant. Each bite is a warm embrace of culinary tradition, reminding diners why the chicken parm hero remains a staple in New York’s food scene. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

10. Falafel Sandwich from Mamouns

Crunchy falafel, creamy tahini, fresh veggies—cheap, fast, and satisfying. A Greenwich Village favorite since 1971. Mamoun’s has become synonymous with authentic Middle Eastern street food, offering a falafel sandwich that’s both flavorful and fulfilling. Each bite reveals a medley of spices and textures, with the falafel’s crispy exterior giving way to a tender, flavorful interior. This beloved sandwich provides a quick, delicious option for those on the go, representing the diverse culinary landscape of NYC. Enjoyed by students, locals, and tourists alike, it’s a taste of tradition in every bite.

11. Egg and Cheese on a Roll from Any Bodega

Salty, melty, perfect. It’s not brunch—it’s breakfast the NYC way. Bonus points if it’s wrapped in foil and served with an iced coffee. The bodega breakfast sandwich is an iconic part of New York’s daily rhythm, offering a quick and satisfying start to the day. Whether enjoyed on a bustling morning commute or a lazy weekend, this simple yet delicious meal is a staple for many New Yorkers. The combination of fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and a soft roll creates a comforting experience that’s uniquely NYC, cherished by locals and newcomers alike.

12. Chopped Cheese from a Bronx or Harlem Deli

NYC’s answer to the cheeseburger—ground beef, onions, melted cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on a hero roll. Messy, iconic, and delicious. The chopped cheese sandwich, born in the bodegas of Harlem and the Bronx, is a culinary icon that embodies the city’s diverse and dynamic food culture. Each bite is a flavorful explosion, with the savory beef and melted cheese blending with fresh veggies and creamy mayo. A beloved choice for lunch or late-night cravings, the chopped cheese is more than a meal—it’s a symbol of New York’s vibrant street food scene.

13. Lucali’s Brick-Oven Pizza (Brooklyn)

This dimly lit Carroll Gardens spot is beloved by locals and celebs alike. Thin, blistered crust and fresh toppings—worth the wait every time. Lucali’s offers an intimate dining experience where each pizza is crafted with care and attention to detail. The combination of high-quality ingredients and a wood-fired oven results in a pie that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and celebrity sightings, Lucali’s remains a cherished destination for pizza lovers seeking the ultimate Brooklyn slice. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this pizzeria never disappoints.

14. Xi’an Famous Foods’ Spicy Lamb Noodles

Hand-ripped noodles coated in spicy chili oil with tender lamb. Unique, bold, and totally addictive. Xi’an Famous Foods brings a taste of Northwestern Chinese cuisine to New York, offering dishes that are both authentic and innovative. The spicy lamb noodles are a standout, with the rich flavors of chili and cumin complementing the tender lamb and chewy noodles. Each bite provides a fiery kick that’s balanced by the noodles’ texture, making it a must-try for adventurous eaters. A favorite among food enthusiasts, this dish showcases the diverse culinary offerings of NYC.

15. Di Fara Pizza (Midwood, Brooklyn)

An old-school pizza institution where every pie is crafted with love by Dom DeMarco (RIP). Still one of the city’s best. Di Fara Pizza has been a Brooklyn staple for over five decades, known for its meticulous approach to pizza-making. Each pie is handcrafted with fresh ingredients, from the tangy tomato sauce to the creamy mozzarella. The legacy of Dom DeMarco continues to live on, drawing pizza enthusiasts from near and far. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a trip to Di Fara is an essential pilgrimage for any true pizza lover seeking authenticity and flavor.

16. Peter Luger’s Dry-Aged Porterhouse (Williamsburg)

Legendary steakhouse with no-frills service and massive, buttery slabs of dry-aged beef. A meat lover’s pilgrimage. Peter Luger’s has been a Williamsburg landmark since 1887, renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition. The dry-aged porterhouse is a masterpiece, offering rich, beefy flavors that have made it a favorite among steak enthusiasts. Each cut is skillfully prepared, ensuring tenderness and depth of flavor. A dining experience at Peter Luger’s is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of culinary excellence and a must-visit for anyone seeking the pinnacle of steakhouse dining.

17. Levain Bakery’s Giant Chocolate Chip Cookies

Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and as thick as a hockey puck. One cookie feeds two—but you’ll want your own. Levain Bakery’s chocolate chip cookies have achieved legendary status, drawing dessert lovers from all around. Each cookie is a perfect blend of textures, with crisp edges and a rich, chewy center filled with melty chocolate. A visit to Levain Bakery is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering an indulgent treat that’s both satisfying and unforgettable. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or on its own, this cookie is a testament to the city’s vibrant dessert scene.