Eat Your Way Through New York City With 12 Iconic Food Spots Worth The Hype

Steam rises from a paper-wrapped slice and the city hum shifts into focus. Crust snaps, cheese stretches, mustard blooms on warm rye. In New York City, flavor doubles as folklore – delis that bark your order back, counters polished by a million elbows, ovens seasoned by decades.

Pastrami leans into smoke and spice; pies land blistered and proud. You don’t just eat here. You collect stories in bites.

1. Peter Luger Steak House

Brooklyn’s Peter Luger has been serving some of the city’s best steaks since 1887, and it shows. The porterhouse arrives sizzling, pre-sliced, and swimming in its own buttery juices.

No frills, no fancy plating – just perfectly aged beef cooked exactly right. The atmosphere feels old-school, with wooden tables and waiters who’ve seen it all. Cash or debit only, so plan ahead before making the trip across the bridge.

2. Keens Steakhouse

Keens has been a Midtown fixture since 1885, and the ceiling covered in clay pipes hints at its storied past. The mutton chop here is legendary – a massive, tender cut that’s hard to find anywhere else in the city.

Steaks are excellent too, cooked over hickory and oak for a subtle smokiness. The dimly lit rooms and vintage decor create a cozy, almost theatrical atmosphere that makes dinner feel special.

3. Joe’s Pizza (Greenwich Village)

Joe’s serves the kind of slice that defines New York pizza – thin, foldable, and perfectly balanced. The crust has just enough chew, the sauce is tangy without being too sweet, and the cheese stretches in all the right ways.

It’s a no-fuss spot with a steady stream of locals and tourists grabbing a quick bite. Stand at the counter, fold your slice, and enjoy one of the city’s simplest pleasures.

4. Di Fara Pizza

Di Fara in Midwood, Brooklyn, is where pizza becomes an art form. Each pie is crafted with care, topped with imported ingredients and finished with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil.

Expect a wait – everything is made to order by hand. But when that first bite arrives, the flavors justify the patience. The crust strikes a perfect balance between crispy and chewy, with a richness that lingers long after the last slice.

5. Lombardi’s Pizza

Lombardi’s claims the title of America’s first pizzeria, opening in 1905, and the coal oven has been firing pies ever since. The crust comes out blistered and slightly charred, with a smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate.

Toppings are simple and high-quality, letting the dough shine. The Little Italy location adds a touch of history to every meal. It’s a spot where tradition and taste come together beautifully.

6. Sylvia’s Restaurant

Sylvia’s has been serving soul food in Harlem since 1962, and the menu reads like a love letter to Southern cooking. Fried chicken arrives crispy and golden, while collard greens and mac and cheese round out the plate with comfort and flavor.

The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with a sense of community in every corner. Sunday brunch brings live gospel music, turning a meal into a full experience.

7. SriPraPhai (Queens)

Tucked away in Woodside, Queens, SriPraPhai serves Thai food that feels authentic and vibrant. The menu is extensive, with curries that pack heat and noodle dishes that balance sweet, sour, and savory perfectly.

Portions are generous, and flavors are bold without overwhelming the palate. The casual setting might surprise first-timers, but the food speaks for itself. It’s a neighborhood gem worth the subway ride.

8. Xi’an Famous Foods

Xi’an Famous Foods started as a small stall and grew into a beloved chain known for bold, spicy flavors. The hand-pulled noodles have a satisfying chew, and the cumin lamb brings a warming spice that’s both complex and addictive.

Prices stay affordable, making it easy to try multiple dishes. The menu highlights flavors from China’s Shaanxi province, offering something different from typical Chinese takeout. It’s fast, flavorful, and unforgettable.

9. The Halal Guys (53rd & 6th)

The Halal Guys started as a single cart in Midtown and became a citywide phenomenon. The chicken and rice platter is simple but satisfying, with tender meat, fluffy rice, and that signature white sauce everyone talks about.

Lines can stretch down the block, especially late at night. The red sauce adds a fiery kick, so use it sparingly. It’s street food done right, with flavors that keep people coming back.

10. Russ & Daughters Cafe

Russ & Daughters started as an appetizing shop over a century ago, and the cafe continues that legacy with smoked fish done right. Bagels come loaded with silky lox, cream cheese, and all the classic toppings.

Everything tastes fresh and carefully sourced. The space feels welcoming, with bright lighting and a menu that honors Jewish culinary traditions. Whether grabbing breakfast or brunch, expect flavors that feel both nostalgic and timeless.

11. Nathan’s Famous (Coney Island)

Nathan’s has been a Coney Island staple since 1916, and the hot dogs remain a summertime ritual. The snap of the casing and the smoky flavor make each bite feel like a piece of New York history.

Grab a seat on the boardwalk and watch the ocean while munching on fries and a dog. The annual hot dog eating contest adds to the legend, but the real draw is the simple pleasure of a perfectly cooked frank.

12. Katz’s Delicatessen

Walking into Katz’s feels like stepping back in time, with ticket stubs in hand and the smell of cured meats filling the air. The pastrami on rye here isn’t just a sandwich – it’s a New York tradition piled high with tender, peppery meat.

Lines might look intimidating, but they move quickly. Once that first bite hits, everything makes sense. The meat practically melts, and the rye bread holds it all together without stealing the show.