NYC food experiences can be found everywhere. I mean there are food locations for every type of cuisine all over the city and what’s worse is most of them have thousands of reviews, 4-star and higher which does not make choosing easier.
But in case you’re looking for more than just good food, here is a list of dining options worth experiencing.
NYC Food Experiences you need to try:
1. Russian Tea Room
The Russian Tea Room is a glamorous, elegant, and decadent NYC food location with everything from fancy dinners to afternoon tea. Established in 1927 by the Russian Imperial Ballet, the Russian Tea Room is SUPER iconic and beautiful and was featured in the movie Tootsie.
Afternoon tea is 2 courses. The first course included caviar and several sandwiches. The second course included scones, cupcakes, a macaron, and 2 truffles.
Verdict: I LOVED the second course and their black tea was delicious. If you’re up for dining option full of elegance and a celebratory atmosphere, this place is for you.
TIP: We made reservations for afternoon tea. Depending on the season you go, this might be a safe option for you. And if you don’t eat a lot, they do allow you to take your food home and package it for you.
2. Ichiran Times Square
Verdict: A definite must in NYC. They have 3 locations in NYC. They only offer tonkatsu ramen that you can customize based on preferences of toppings and spice level, but theirs is amazing. What I loved the most is the cubicle style of eating. They describe it as being “distraction-free” so you can wholly enjoy the flavors of the broth.
This ramen destination has drawn in several celebrities and their faces are framed on the walls. Ichiran Ramen is such a unique NYC food experience.
TIP: Sip the broth first and then start eating from the middle so the flavors slowly mix and you get several flavors and seasonings in one sitting–an amazing ramen experience.
P.S. I lived in Japan for 3 years and I absolutely loved this ramen.
3. Ladauree Paris
NOTE: There are several locations in the United States and several in NYC.
Verdict: The Ladurée coffee was phenomenal! Definitely try the coffee. As for food, it’s like having bites of Paris without leaving the city. I sampled 3 viennoiseries and absolutely enjoyed all flavors of the croissants. There are more locations in other states and of course, Paris, so if you live in a state with one, you could probably skip it in NYC though each of the NY locations are beautiful.
4. Shake Shack (the original)
Shack Shack began as a hot dog cart by Madison Square before it blossomed into what it is today.
Verdict: This location is beautiful and is prettier at night! The food is amazing– I mean, it is Shake Shack. They are known for their amazing burgers and shakes, which I’ve had but I got their hot dog and crinkle fries and loved it. This one is the one in the movie, Something Borrowed.
5. Serendipity 3
Founded in the 1950’s, Serendipity 3 is where the movie Serendipity filmed a scene and has been visited by Andy Warhol, Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, Cary Grant, and obviously Kate Beckinsale in the movie.
Verdict: Their speciality “Frozen Hot Chocolate” is amazing. I don’t recommend any of their foods or coffees but definitely get their specialty.
6. Aysa Wine and Chocolate Bar
Verdict: Ayza Wine & Chocolate Bar has outstanding chocolate martinis, their atmosphere embodies NYC, and their wine & chocolate pairing makes for fun New York City food experiences. It was recommended to me by a friend who is a NYC local.
7. Levain Bakery
Levain Bakery’s chocolate walnut cookie is labeled by Cosmopolitan as the best cookie in the state of NY.
Verdict: DEFINITELY give this bakery a try. Their chocolate walnut was yummy but I actually loved their dark chocolate chip cookie, which tastes like semi-sweet chocolate chips so much more.
8. Ellen’s Stardust Diner
NYC is all about broadway and this diner not only has amazing food but it has broadway-hopefuls singing and serving food. When I went, one of the singers had just landed a broadway role and was in her last week of work at the diner.
Verdict: If you want a lively atmosphere, yummy food (milkshakes, too!), and entertainment, absolutely visit. This location definitely makes the list for amazing NYC food experiences.
TIP: There are LONG lines so plan accordingly.
Do you have any tips or suggestions for having amazing NYC food experiences? If so, I’d love it hear it!
I know sometimes traveling can be absolutely overwhelming. There is so much pressure to pick the “right place” or do “enough.” Traveling is meant to be fun and new and exciting, and it all begins with intentionality. So if you’re looking for some tips on positive traveling, here is a post with 3 Tips of Intentionality.
