New York City is renowned for its diverse and vibrant street food scene, offering a plethora of delicious options from various cultures around the world. Here are some must-try street foods to eat in New York.
15 Street Foods to Eat in New York
1. New York-Style Pizza
Grab a classic slice of New York-style pizza, characterized by its thin crust, foldable slice, and generous toppings. Famous pizzerias include Joe’s Pizza, Artichoke Basille’s Pizza, and Di Fara Pizza.
2. Hot Dogs
Enjoy a quintessential New York City hot dog from a street vendor, complete with mustard, ketchup, onions, and sauerkraut. Visit iconic spots like Gray’s Papaya, Papaya King, or the original Nathan’s Famous in Coney Island.
3. Halal Cart Chicken and Rice
Indulge in a hearty serving of halal cart chicken and rice, featuring seasoned grilled chicken over fragrant rice, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and creamy white and hot sauce. Try the famous Halal Guys cart in Midtown.
4. Soft Pretzels
Satisfy your cravings with a warm and soft pretzel, sprinkled with salt and served with mustard or cheese sauce. Look for street vendors throughout the city selling these tasty treats.
5. Falafel
Enjoy a flavorful falafel sandwich or platter, featuring crispy chickpea fritters wrapped in pita bread or served with salad, tahini sauce, and pickled vegetables. Mamoun’s Falafel and Taïm Falafel & Smoothie Bar are popular choices.
6. New York-Style Bagels
Sink your teeth into a freshly baked New York-style bagel, known for its dense and chewy texture. Top it with cream cheese, lox, or your favorite spread. Visit iconic bagel shops like Ess-a-Bagel or Murray’s Bagels.
7. Tacos
Explore the city’s diverse taco scene with offerings ranging from traditional Mexican tacos to creative fusion varieties. Check out Tacombi, Los Tacos No. 1, or Taqueria Diana for authentic flavors.
8. Chicken and Waffles
Indulge in the perfect combination of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles, drizzled with syrup or hot sauce. Head to Sweet Chick or Amy Ruth’s for this comforting dish.
9. Banh Mi
Delight in a Vietnamese banh mi sandwich, featuring a crunchy baguette filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and spicy mayo. Ba Xuyên and Saigon Vietnamese Sandwich Deli are popular spots.
10. Empanadas
Enjoy flavorful empanadas filled with a variety of ingredients such as beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack. Try Empanada Mama or Caracas Arepa Bar.
11. Gourmet Doughnuts
Treat yourself to gourmet doughnuts with unique flavors and creative toppings. Doughnut Plant and The Doughnut Project offer an array of inventive options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
12. Churros
Indulge in crispy and sugary churros, served plain or filled with chocolate or dulce de leche. Check out La Churreria or the Churros Calientes cart for authentic Spanish-style churros.
13. Arepa
Try a traditional Venezuelan arepa, a thick cornmeal cake stuffed with a variety of fillings such as shredded beef, cheese, or avocado. Arepa Lady and Caracas Arepa Bar are popular choices.
14. Bubble Tea
Cool off with a refreshing bubble tea, featuring sweetened tea or milk mixed with tapioca pearls or fruit jelly. Visit popular bubble tea spots like Gong Cha, Kung Fu Tea, or Vivi Bubble Tea.
15. Cronut
Indulge in the famous cronut, a croissant doughnut hybrid invented by Dominique Ansel Bakery. Join the line early to taste the monthly-changing flavor combinations of this sought-after pastry.
These are just a few of the many delicious street foods waiting to be savored in New York City. From savory to sweet, the city offers a culinary adventure that reflects its rich cultural diversity and vibrant food culture.
Read also – 20 Places to Eat Street Food in New York City
