The Ultimate NYC Foodie Bucket List to Eat Like a Local

New York City is a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and culinary traditions, making it one of the best food destinations in the world. If you’re visiting the Big Apple for the first time, your itinerary should include more than just sightseeing — it’s mandatory to embark on a food-filled adventure! From iconic bagels to legendary pizzas, here are the must-try foods in NYC that will give you a true taste of the city. 

New York Bagels & Lox

Maybe it’s the water. Could be the generations of tradition. No matter what, New Yorkers agree: a trip to NYC isn’t complete without tearing into a freshly made bagel. New York bagels are famous for their chewy texture and crispy exterior, and a fresh slice of salty cured salmon is the ideal accompaniment for their timeless taste.

Where to try them:

• Ess-a-Bagel (831 3rd Avenue): Known for oversized bagels and their famous lox and schmear, this place is a must try.
• Barney Greengrass (541 Amsterdam Avenue): A historic Jewish deli specializing in smoked fish bagels and more.
• NY Jumbo Bagels (1070 2nd Avenue): A classic hole-in-the-wall neighborhood stop with truly massive bagels, as well as deli sandwiches and Mediterranean eats.
• Zabar’s (2245 Broadway): Don’t miss this Upper West Side spot made famous just as much for their multiple appearances in renowned New York-based films and television as for their unbeatable bagels.

New York-Style Pizza

New Yorkers take their pizza seriously, and you’ll understand why after just one taste. Whether you dig into a classic grab-and-go cheesy street slice or indulge in a full sit-down pie, NYC’s thin-crust, foldable pizza is a must-try.

Where to try it:

• Joe’s Pizza (7 Carmine Street): A no-frills spot serving some of the best slices in the city. A must-add to every foodie’s “gotta have it” list. 
• John’s of Bleecker Street (278 Bleecker Street): A coal-fired pizzeria with a major cult following. Try and decide if you’re a part of the tribe. 
• Prince Street Pizza (27 Prince Street): Famous for their spicy square slices, this iconic pizza place is a must visit for pizza lovers. 

The Classic New York Cheesecake

Rich, creamy, and velvety smooth, New York-style cheesecake is an indulgence worth every bite. Known for its dense texture and tangy-sweet flavor, it’s a must-try dessert that perfectly captures NYC’s decadent culinary scene!

Where to try it:

• Junior’s (1515 Broadway & other locations): Junior’s is renowned for its legendary New York cheesecake, rich and creamy with a perfect graham cracker crust. 
• Eileen’s Special Cheesecake (17 Cleveland Place): A smaller, family-run shop with melt-in-your-mouth slices, it is a must-visit for creamy, perfectly balanced bites
• Veniero’s Pastry Shop (342 E 11th Street): Serving traditional Italian cheesecakes since 1894, Veniero’s also offers classic Italian desserts like cannoli, cheesecakes, and tiramisu. 

The Iconic New York Hot Dog

A timeless Manhattan hot dog is a snappy, savory street food loved by locals and visitors alike. Typically served with mustard, onions and/or sauerkraut, this quick, satisfying snack is perfect for anyone on the go. It captures the essence of NYC’s vibrant, fast-paced energy and diverse culinary scene.

Where to try it:

• Gray’s Papaya (2090 Broadway): Gray’s Papaya is a famous New York hot dog stand known for its delicious, affordable franks and tropical drinks.
• Nathan’s Famous (1310 Surf Avenue Coney Island): The birthplace of the classic New York hot dog. The original, and for many, the all-time best.
• Crif Dogs (113 St. Marks Place): Crif Dogs may not be traditional, but their bacon-wrapped, deep-fried dog is a surprising twist on a tasty classic.

The Legendary Pastrami on Rye

New York delis are world-famous, and the pastrami on rye sandwich is a big part of the reason why. Piled high with juicy, peppery pastrami and served on fresh rye bread, this is a must-have meal — even if actually biting into it can sometimes be a challenge.

Where to try it:

• Katz’s Delicatessen (205 E Houston Street): As the most iconic deli in all of NYC, Katz’s serves massive sandwiches you’ll have to eat to believe. Katz’s is also legendary for classic deli fare, and a signature ambiance. 
• 2nd Ave Deli (162 E 33rd Street): Another kosher deli with top-notch meats and classic deli fare. 2nd Avenue serves the perfect pastrami, matzo ball soup, and other hearty fare.
• Sarge’s Deli (548 3rd Avenue): Known for their massive portions, around-the-clock service and authentic flavors, Sarge’s Deli is quintessentially New York.

The NYC Black & White Cookie

Part cake, part cookie and all delicious, you simply can’t leave town without sampling this New York staple. Soft, sweet, and topped with half vanilla and half chocolate icing, this classic treat is a symbol of the city’s melting pot of flavors. Each iconic cookie offers the perfect balance of sweet simplicity and nostalgia in every delicious bite.

Where to try it:

• William Greenberg Desserts (1100 Madison Avenue): Known for their perfectly balanced version of the Black & White. As one of New York’s most beloved bakeries, William Greenberg is also famous for rich brownies and delicious pastries, all made with top-quality ingredients.
• Zabar’s (2245 Broadway): Zabar's warrants a second mention here. his beloved Upper West Side institution has been renowned for its gourmet delicacies, fresh bagels, smoked fish, and artisanal cheeses since 1934. And if you're a Friends fan, you might have even spotted Rachel carrying a Zabar’s takeaway bag in a few episodes.
• Orwashers Bakery (440 Amsterdam Avenue): Orwashers is a beloved, historic NYC institution known for its artisanal bread, pastries, hand-crafted bagels, and of course, authentic black & white cookies. They’ve been offering high-quality fresh-baked goods daily since 1916.

Matzo Ball Soup

Perfect for chilly days, a piping hot bowl of NYC matzo ball soup is both a comforting staple of Jewish cuisine and a “bucket list” experience for any foodie. Fluffy dumplings float in golden broth rich with chicken, carrots, and celery and every spoonful soothes the soul, bringing warmth and nostalgia. Whether for holidays or healing, this timeless dish is a hug in a bowl.

Where to try it:

• Russ & Daughters Cafe (127 Orchard Street): A legendary Jewish deli with a fantastic take on the city’s favorite soup. Russ & Daughters also serves cultural classics like bagels with lox, caviar, and latkes in a charming, nostalgic setting.
• Barney Greengrass (541 Amsterdam Avenue): The soup may be what brought you in the door, but this popular locals’ favorite is also known for their smoked fish and bagels.

NYC-Style Diner Pancakes

Fluffy, buttery, and often served in towering stacks, NYC diners are famous for their pancakes. Served with a generous dollop of butter and drenched in syrup, they’re the perfect breakfast indulgence. Often paired with crispy bacon or fresh fruit, these pancakes capture the essence of classic New York comfort food — simple, satisfying, and utterly iconic.

Where to try them:

• Clinton St. Baking Company (4 Clinton Street): Known for their blueberry pancakes, this beloved spot is also famed for fluffy biscuits, crispy bacon and all-day brunch. If you’re on the hunt for a cozy family eatery that draws food lovers with its Southern-inspired comfort dishes and laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, you’ve come to the right place.
• Bubby’s (120 Hudson Street): A Tribeca favorite serving homemade comfort food since 1990, Bubby’s is known for its comforting, home-style American eats. Hearty brunches, legendary pancakes, and classic pies are served within a warm, welcoming atmosphere here, making Bubby’s the go-to spot for locals and visitors craving delicious, nostalgic comfort food.
• Good Enough to Eat (520 Columbus Avenue): Step into a cozy Upper West Side diner with legendary pancakes. Famous for farm-fresh ingredients and a cozy atmosphere, this neighborhood gem has been serving delicious breakfasts, brunches, and classic dishes since 1981.

Where to Stay for the Ultimate NYC Foodie Adventure?

After indulging in all of NYC’s culinary delights, finding a comfortable place to relax and recharge is essential, and The Beacon Hotel NYC is the perfect choice for food lovers. Conveniently located on the Upper West Side, the hotel is surrounded by some of the city's best restaurants, delis, and bakeries. Thanks to convenient subway access, Beacon guests can effortlessly explore Midtown, the East Village, and Brooklyn’s vibrant food scene just moments from their room. So, grab your appetite and get ready to eat your way through the Big Apple!