5 Legendary New York City Foods (And Where to Find the Best)
New York City is a bucket list destination for travel enthusiasts across the globe. With a population of over 8 million and over 62 million visitors per year, it is no surprise that New York has earned the title of the “City That Never Sleeps”. With so much to see in such a concentrated area, you are sure to break records on your daily step counter and work up quite an appetite along the way.
The food options in New York City are just as vast as the options for attractions, so it’s easy to ask the question, “Where should I begin?”
It would take a lifetime to fully immerse yourself in the NYC culinary scene, but read on to learn about 5 legendary New York City foods and where to find the best.
New York-Style Pizza
Jonny’s Pizza in the Lower East Side
Visiting New York City and having a slice of pizza is like going to France and eating a croissant—it simply must be done. In true melting-pot fashion, pizza began in New York City with the arrival of Italian immigrants in the early 20th century.
In an adaptation of the Neapolitan style, New York style swapped the wood-fired oven for a coal-fired one. Today, electric ovens are most commonly used. This pizza’s famous thin crust and light sauce are ideal for folding & taking on the go, which is fitting for the city's lively hustle.
John's of Bleecker Street, NYC
There are over 2,000 pizzerias to choose from, so don’t worry if a line out the door is too daunting. You’ll find options on essentially every corner in the city.
Highly rated venues include L’industrie Pizzeria in Brooklyn and the West Village, Joe’s Pizza with many locations across the city, and Mama’s Too off Broadway.
I tried a slice at Jonny’s Pizza in the Lower East Side, and it absolutely lived up to the hype.
Pastrami
Towering pastrami at Katz’s Delicatessen
Pastrami established its fame in the New York City food scene starting in the late 19th century, when it was introduced by Romanian Jewish immigrants. Using a recipe with origins from Southeastern Europe, pastrami is made by flavoring and smoking corned beef. Pastrami sandwiches were so popular in New York that by the mid-20th century, there were Jewish delicatessens all across the city.
Today, you’ll find pastrami served on rye bread with mustard and with meat stacked nearly as high as the nearby skyscrapers. Katz’s Delicatessen, founded in 1888, is credited as the oldest deli in New York City and is one of the most famous places to order this impressive sandwich.
Pro tip: During peak lunch & dinner hours, you’ll find a line out the door and down the street, but almost none if you visit in the morning.
Doughnuts
COPS, Greenwich Village
New York City is credited as the birthplace of the doughnut when it was created by Dutch immigrants in the 17th & 18th centuries. The first doughnut shop opened on Broadway in 1678, where a Dutch woman named Anna Joralemon sold treats known as olykoeks, which translates to “oily cakes.” The term “doughnut” was first introduced in the early 19th century.
Today, there are numerous doughnut shops across the city, offering varieties such as traditional yeast donuts, decadent cake donuts, and the trendy cronut. Highly reviewed doughnut shops in New York City include Dough, with locations across the city, COPS in Greenwich Village, and Dominque Ansel in SOHO.
I visited COPS and can honestly say the donuts were the best I’ve ever had, and I cannot wait to go back.
Bagels & Schmear
Lox & cream cheese bagel, Katz’s Delicatessen
The origins of bagels date back to the 13th century in Poland from German immigrants who imported pretzel dough. The Jewish citizens were not allowed to bake bread due to religious beliefs and therefore opted to boil it. Bagels arrived in New York City with Jewish Polish immigrants in the late 19th century. The iconic lox and cream cheese became famous between World War I and II and has remained a staple since.
There are over 200 bagel shops in New York City, with countless varieties from sweet to savory, and they are always served with a heap of “schmear” (aka cream cheese). Locally loved establishments include Tompkins Square Bagels and Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee.
Taste Authentic Italian in Little Italy
Rounding out our 5 legendary foods in New York City is a culinary tour of Little Italy. Located in Lower Manhattan, alongside Chinatown, Little Italy’s roots date back to the arrival of Italian immigrants in the mid-20th century. Restrictions stemming from limited job prospects and language barriers fostered a strong community rich in Italian heritage.
Today, there are many Italian restaurants with staples such as freshly made pasta. For an authentic Italian market, visit Di Palo’s Fine Foods (pictured above), which has been in business for over 100 years and sells Italian cheeses, meats, sauces, and more.
Crafting fresh pasta at Osteria Barocca, Little Italy
Before you depart Little Italy, grab some cannoli and some New York cheesecake from Ferrara Bakery & Café. This historic establishment opened in 1892 & is credited as America’s first Italian bakery and espresso bar.
Hungry yet? It’s time to plan your trip to the Big Apple!
Looking for less touristy ways to explore New York City? Read here!
Published: October 21, 2024 - Updated May 19, 2026
