New York
The Best Street Food in New York
Discover the ultimate guide to the best street food spots in New York City.
Known as the melting pot of the world, New York City offers a culinary scene that's as diverse as its population. From classic American eats to flavors from around the globe, New York street food offers something for everyone. In this guide, we'll walk you through some of the most popular spots for street food in the city, including Wu's Wonton King, Katz's Delicatessen, and Dhamaka. But don't just take our word for it; our list is carefully curated based on recommendations from World of Mouth experts, including Eric Gutierrez, Mimi Lan, and Joshua David Stein. So whether you're a local or just passing through, there is sure to be something here for you as we showcase the best in street food that New York City has to offer.
Wu’s Wonton King in New York is known for its vibrant atmosphere and classic Cantonese flair. It’s a welcoming spot whether you’re dining solo or coming with a group, and you can bring your own drinks to make it even more relaxed. Swing by if you’re looking for a reliably fun outing with straightforward, satisfying food.
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Down in the LES, a great spot for a larger table, sharing crab, dumplings, whole suckling pig and roast duck. BYO too.Popular and very reliable spot, especially with the hospitality industry for any group or smaller occasion and level of hunger. The go-to for orphans Christmas, and lots of messy fun. Whole roast duck buns, live seafood tanks with crabs and other delights, dumplings, noodles and BBQ meats or order ahead for whole roast suckling pig to share with your BYO wine and table.A great spot for a quick solo lunch or sprawling dinner with friends. Use your napkin.
Katz's Delicatessen is a longtime New York institution known for its authentic deli experience and storied past. Open since 1888, it welcomes visitors with a lively atmosphere and a genuine taste of local history. Its classic charm and role in the city’s cultural fabric make it a memorable stop for both locals and travelers.
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Their signature dish, the colossal pastrami on rye, is often hailed as one of the city’s best.For over a century, this iconic restaurant has been serving up New York City’s quintessential Jewish comfort food. Their signature dish, the colossal pastrami on rye, is often hailed as one of the city’s best. Tourist trap or not, this is a pretty damn good sandwich. Other items on the menu include the corned beef sandwich, a rich matzo ball soup, and crunchy pickles.
Dhamaka is an Indian restaurant in New York known for its lively atmosphere and bold, vibrant flavors. Located in Essex Market on the Lower East Side, it showcases a side of Indian cooking that’s often overlooked. Its energetic setting and spicy approach draw people seeking a memorable dining experience.
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Spicy and sublime Indian food on the Lower East SideLocated in Essex Market, Dhamaka is a loud, colourful and teeth suckingly spicy restaurant focusing on Indian village food, with a fondness for offal. Incredible snacks (do not miss the papdi chaat, the beguni fried aubergine or pig's head doh khleh), grills and saucier dishes - we had a murgh kofta, a chicken mince meatball with a whole egg inside (an Indian Scotch egg, what's not to love?). And oh my, the butter, from the chapati to the rice. You will over-order, you will try dishes you've never tried before and you'll sweat. Just brilliant.
L’Industrie Pizzeria is a bustling spot in Williamsburg known for some of the best pizza slices in New York. Their paper-thin crusts, made with natural fermentation and high-hydration techniques, keep regulars coming back. Grab a seat at the bar or enjoy the lively sidewalk patio for a relaxed, neighborhood vibe.
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This renowned pizza joint delivers a delightful blend of classic and creative pies.When it comes to pizza in New York City, L’Industrie reigns supreme. Nestled in the vibrant Williamsburg area, this renowned joint delivers a delightful blend of classic and creative pies. What sets them apart is their mastery in crafting paper-thin crusts using natural fermentation and high-hydration techniques.Don't miss out on the burrata slice. A beautiful interplay of temperatures as the cool burrata perfectly balances the tangy tomato sauce. If you're not able to score a seat at the bar, you can enjoy your slice in the bustling ambiance of the spacious sidewalk patio.
Thai Diner blends Thai and American influences in a warm, laid-back setting in New York’s Lower East Side. It has a lively, welcoming vibe, with friendly bartenders and plenty of seating both indoors and out. You’ll find it respectful of Thai traditions while still offering a playful spin on familiar favorites.
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Thai and American cuisine come together in a deliciously unexpected way at Thai DinerThai and American cuisine come together in a deliciously unexpected way at Thai Diner. With a menu full of inventive and playful dishes that are still approachable, this casual eatery is a standout in the crowded New York City food scene. Don’t miss out on the heavenly egg sandwich with cheese, sai oua herbal sausage and Thai basil wrapped in roti. One of my favorite brunch items in town!
Ba Xuyên is a simple storefront in Brooklyn known for its authentic Vietnamese fare. Its laid-back setting and quick service make it a welcoming spot for a satisfying meal. Visitors appreciate the straightforward approach and consistent quality at this easygoing neighborhood favorite.
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Bánh Mì in Sunset Park with pork meat cooked in four different ways.Bánh Mì Thịt Nguội at Ba Xuyen in Sunset Park. Pork meat cooked in four different ways, pickled carrot, cucumber and daikon, coriander and jalapeño in a perfectly carved rice flour baguette. And milk tea.
Tian Fu Cuisine is a cozy spot tucked away in a basement under a grocery on Flushing Main Street in New York. It’s known for its bold, spicy Sichuan flavors that draw people in. The laid-back setting and authentic tastes make it a favorite among locals looking for something a little different.
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Additive cold Sichuan noodlesAdditive cold Sichuan noodles with chili oil, black vinegar, garlic and a lot of Sichuan pepper of course. In a small Basement under a grocery on Flushing Main Street.
Joe’s Steam Rice Roll in New York is a lively spot known for preparing its signature Cantonese steamed rice rolls to order. The place feels casual and welcoming, making it easy to drop in for a straightforward and satisfying bite. Its fresh approach and bustling atmosphere keep people coming back for more.
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Silky, extremely thin layers of rice pancakes filled with for example dried shrimps, shallots and egg. The pancakes are cooked in a special steamer.
Uma's is a cozy spot in Rockaway Beach, New York, featuring the rich and hearty flavors of Uzbek cuisine. It has a laid-back vibe that invites you to enjoy a casual meal. It’s worth a try if you appreciate straightforward, satisfying cooking.
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Uma's serves awesome low key Russian/Uzbek food in New York. Different dumplings that are popular items here called Manti and Pelmeni. Worth a try!
Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings – Flushing is a well-known spot in Flushing’s bustling Chinatown, offering authentic Northern Chinese flavors. It once caught the attention of Anthony Bourdain, and today continues to draw steady crowds. The relaxed setting and consistent reputation make it a go-to choice for those exploring Queens.
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The largest Chinatown of New York City is in Flushing, Queens. Totally worth of the culinary trip. Be sure to visit New World Mall’s food court. For the dumplings, head to the Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao. Anthony Bourdain was here too, that explains the lines.
Absolute Bagels is known as one of the best bagel shops in New York, with a line that’s often worth the wait. Founded in 1990, it serves fresh bagels that many find perfectly chewy and satisfying. It’s a straightforward spot that’s popular with both locals and visitors.
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It feels like you are obligated to have at least one bagel when you visit New York. We did an extensive research until deciding this was going to be the place to try a bagel in NYC. We can't tell if it's the best in the city, but one thing is sure, that bagel was super good and we will have it again on our next visit!
Ho Foods is a tiny, seven-seat restaurant in New York that draws inspiration from the flavors of Taiwan. They keep things simple with well-sourced ingredients and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a relaxed spot that appeals to people of all ages.
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Ho Foods is this tiny 7-seat place that is famous for one dish, Szechuan beef noodle. Yum, satisfying, especially in cold weather
Bakeri is a friendly bakery-café in Williamsburg, New York, where regulars begin their mornings grabbing fresh treats or settling in at the cozy communal table. Despite its intimate size, it’s well known among locals for its welcoming atmosphere and the aroma of warm baked goods. Tucked near the oven and kitchen, it’s a neighborhood favorite for a relaxed start to the day.
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Brooklyn’s favourite breakfast and bakery.Bakeri in Williamsburg is a wonderful tiny bakery-café where hunderds of Williamsburg creatives start their mornings either by picking up their takeaways or by enjoying breakfast in the long communal table in the small space next to the oven and kitchen. Unbeliveably delicious baked stuff makes it natural that everyone in Williamsburg know the place despite its small size. Try the amazing cheese-ham croissants or the apricot muffins. Just follow the colourful crowd inside or at the table by the street.
Dog Day Afternoon is a laid-back spot in New York that pays respect to a well-known Chicago-style tradition. The nostalgic, easygoing interior makes it feel like you’re stopping by a friend’s place for a quick bite. Locals keep returning for the genuine flavors and welcoming vibe that stand out in the neighborhood.
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My neighborhood hot dog shop, also one of the city's bestPut a hot dog anywhere near me and I'll try it. Despite living equidistant between Dog Day Afternoon and the stalwart Nathan's in Coney Island, I return again and again to DDA. The hot dogs are classic, with the perfect snap and served Chicago style (pickles, celery salt, yellow mustard, raw onions, bright green relish) on a poppy seed bun. They also make a tremendous Chicago style beef sandwich.
Taqueria Ramirez is a small spot in Brooklyn that focuses on delivering big flavors with a simple, carefully crafted menu. Though seating is limited, the cozy space adds to its laid-back atmosphere. The rich, aromatic cooking has a way of drawing people in from the street.
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At Taqueria Ramirez, it's all about the tacos - and they do them exceptionally well.At Taqueria Ramirez, it's all about the tacos - and they do them exceptionally well. With a simple yet carefully crafted menu, this small spot in Brooklyn delivers big on flavor and authenticity. The unique aroma of the broth, made with chile-laced bovine innards stewing in pork fat, is enough to lure passersby in from the street. You have to try the al pastor, longaniza and tripa - all so succulent and flavorful. The small space only has ten seats, but that just adds to the atmosphere.
Bellucci Pizza blends New York–style and New York–Neapolitan traditions, serving thin and crisp slices made with fresh, quality ingredients. The shop takes pride in its carefully crafted crust and consistent flavor, creating a welcoming spot for anyone who appreciates a good slice. Its down-to-earth atmosphere and focus on simple excellence make it an appealing neighborhood favorite.
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Bellucci is making consistently excellent thin, crisp, and flavorful slices in this tiny shop.World-class slice pizza somewhere between New York–style and “New York–Neapolitan” (aka coal-oven pizza) made by pizza obsessive Andrew Bellucci, the pizza maker who helped resurrect NYC icon Lombardi’s in the 1990s. Bellucci is making consistently excellent thin, crisp, and flavorful slices in this tiny shop off the beaten path in Queens.
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