Planning a trip to the city that never sleeps? New York is a city like no other. It engages all your senses and you'll never feel more alive being in this buzzing city at any time of the day.
New York is also home to some of the most popular foods around the world.
Having had the privilege of visiting NYC recently, I've compiled a list of foods that you should try when you visit this city.
1. Cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery
Cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery
Made famous by the popular TV series Sex and the City, these cupcakes made red velvet a household name. Located on trendy Bleecker Street, expect a line if you're visiting on a good day. Good for takeaways as the shop is a little too tiny to hang around and the cupcakes a tad too pretty to wolf down in one go.
2. Fried Chicken and Waffles in Harlem
Fried Chicken and Waffles in Harlem
Fried chicken and waffles is your typical soul food and can be easily found in Harlem. It's one interesting combination as the waffles are served with maple syrup so you get both savoury and sweet on one plate. I settled for eating both components separately and it was one of the best fried chickens I've ever tasted.
Check out
Sylvia's Harlem Restaurant for an unforgettable soul food experience.
3. Pork Belly Buns from Momofuku
The famous Momofuku pork belly buns
Momofuku NYC is apparently the birth place of the pork belly bun, a well thought out creation of celebrity chef Dave Chang.
No trip to New York will be complete without sampling the pork belly buns from the many Momofuku establishments dotted throughout the city.
The pork belly buns are exquisite and you'll be left wanting more.
I recommend
Momofuku Ssam for a laidback unpretentious dining atmosphere with top notch quality and service.
4. Japanese ramen at Ippudo's
Delicious chicken flavoured ramen at Ippudo's
Ippudo is a famous Japanese ramen chain restaurant that has established itself in many big cities all across the world. Ippudo's branch in East Village New York is the first overseas restaurant to open outside Japan. The ramen is out of this world and reminded me of the authentic ramen noodle bars in the streets of Tokyo.
Expect long lines especially during popular dinner hours. I suggest showing up early for a good chance of getting a table on the spot (the restaurant does not take reservations).
5. Shake Shack
Shake Shack at the Madison Square Park
Shake Shack serves up your average all American food: hot dogs, burgers, shakes, fries, ice cream and so on. The fries at Shake Shack was the standout item for me. Crinkle cut, absolutely delicious and addictive.
I recommend the Shake Shack at Madison Square Park for added buzz and people watching.
What are some of the foods in New York that have left a memorable mark on you? Do share!
