One of the most iconic and exciting cities in the world, New York City is a place that everyone should visit at least once in their lives. One of the things that make the city so special is the wide variety of street food that is sold throughout the city. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite on-the-go or you’re in search of a unique culinary experience, New York’s street vendors have got you covered. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best street food in New York City and where to find it.
Hot Dogs
No trip to New York City would be complete without trying a hot dog from one of the many street vendors. Served on a soft bun and topped with mustard and ketchup, it’s the ultimate American street food. The most popular spots for hot dogs are:
Nathan’s Famous
Founded in 1916, Nathan’s Famous is one of the oldest and most famous hot dog stands in the city. The hot dogs are made with beef, and they are juicy and flavorful.
Gray’s Papaya
Gray’s Papaya is a New York City institution. The hot dogs are made with a blend of beef and pork, and they come with a variety of toppings, including sauerkraut, chili, and onions.
Pizza
New York City is famous for its pizza, and there are plenty of street vendors that sell slices on the go. Here are some of the most popular:
Joe’s Pizza
Located in Greenwich Village, Joe’s Pizza is one of the most famous pizzerias in the city. The slices are large and thin, with just the right amount of cheese and sauce.
Prince Street Pizza
Located in Nolita, Prince Street Pizza is known for their pepperoni slices. The crust is crispy, and the pizza is topped with a generous amount of pepperoni.
Falafel
For a vegetarian option, falafel is a classic New York street food. These deep-fried balls made from chickpeas and spices are a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The most popular spot for falafel is:
Mamoun’s Falafel
Mamoun’s Falafel is a tiny shop in Greenwich Village that serves up some of the best falafel in the city. The falafel is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and they come with a variety of toppings and sauces.
Halal Cart
Halal carts are ubiquitous in New York City. They serve up halal meats that are grilled to perfection and served with fluffy rice and savory sauces. Some of the most popular halal carts are:
The Halal Guys
The Halal Guys is an iconic New York City street food vendor. The platter features a combination of chicken and lamb with rice, salad, and a mouth-watering white sauce.
Rafiqi’s
Rafiqi’s serves a similar menu as The Halal Guys, with chicken, lamb, or falafel served with rice, veggies, and a variety of sauces.
Tacos
Mexican food is more popular in New York City than ever before, and street vendors have stepped up to meet the demand. Here are some of the best taco spots:
El Rey del Taco
Located in the East Village, El Rey del Taco serves up traditional Mexican tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. The tacos are topped with cilantro, onions, and a variety of meats.
Calexico
Calexico is a taco stand that serves up a fusion of Mexican and American flavors. The tacos are topped with cheese, lettuce, and a variety of sauces.
Final Thoughts
New York City is a foodie’s paradise, and street food is a huge part of the culinary landscape. There are hundreds of street vendors to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and style. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic hot dog or want to try something new and exotic, New York’s street vendors have got you covered. Just be sure to bring your appetite!