Typical food of New York

New York isn’t just famous for its iconic film locations and vibrant cultural scene but also for its awesome culinary diversity. A melting pot of cultures and traditions, this is reflected in its cuisine, blending local and international flavors. Many of New York’s most iconic dishes aren’t originally from the city itself but are influenced by Jewish, Italian, or Central European recipes. 

New York is a city where you can find anything your heart desires. The cultural diversity shapes the neighborhoods, and this is immediately reflected in its food, where the variety of restaurants and street food stalls is endless. Below is a selection of must-try bites, from the classic hot dog to the succulent Delmonico steak. 

This New York classic comes from the Jewish community that arrived in the late 19th century. A bagel is a round bread roll with a hole in the center, firm on the outside and soft on the inside, boiled in water with baking soda before being baked. It's typically sliced in half and filled. You’ll find many variations, both sweet and savory, but the most popular is the bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon. New Yorkers often eat it for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. 

The hot dog is the king of New York’s fast street food. Hot dog carts are found on nearly every corner, especially in iconic spots like Central Park and Times Square. You can find everything from classic to gourmet hot dogs. The most popular is beef or pork sausage served in a bun, typically with mustard, ketchup, and onions. On your visit to New York however, you’ll find the combinations are endless. Sausages were brought to the US by Central European immigrants, and many famous stands were established by Jewish and German immigrants. 

For a more sophisticated bite to eat, try the flavorful Delmonico steak. This cut was made famous at Delmonico’s Restaurant, which opened in Manhattan’s financial district in 1837. It is considered one of the first fine dining restaurants in the United States. This cut is normally prepared from the upper part of the beef rib or the sirloin, which are the most tender and tasty cuts. The steak is grilled and served with a simple side like potatoes or vegetables. Its succulent flavor and juiciness make it the essential dish for meat lovers. 

New York cheesecake is the city’s signature dessert. Although cheesecake is found in many cultures, the New York version is dense and creamy, made with cream cheese (instead of ricotta), cream, eggs, and sugar. While the traditional version is plain, it can also be topped with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries. One of the most famous places to enjoy this delicious dessert is Junior's in Brooklyn, which has been serving its famous cheesecake since 1950. 

While New York state is known for its fresh and dynamic wines, the cocktail is the city’s signature drink. 

The Finger Lakes AVA is the largest wine-producing area in New York State. The deep glacial lakes of the region retain heat well into November, helping to raise air temperatures and extend the ripening period of the vineyards. 

The winters, on the other hand, are very cold, similar to those of Central European wine-growing regions including Alsace and Germany. Therefore, it is common for producers to opt for varieties such as the aromatic Riesling and Gewürztraminer. The result is fresh and dynamic wines, with great acidity and longevity. 

The region also produces Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay, as well as wines made from American varieties, such as Concord and Niagara. Don't miss the opportunity to visit a wine bar in New York to taste these magnificent wines. 

Nothing is more New York than enjoying a cocktail with a view of the city’s skyline. But if you prefer something more authentic, the city is full of bars where you can welcome the night with a drink in hand, in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. 

One of the most popular is the Manhattan, an elegant cocktail made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of Angostura bitters. If you're a fan of the show Sex and the City, you're probably familiar with the Cosmopolitan, the favorite drink of Carrie and her friends. It’s made with vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice, and lime. 

Another classic is the Dry Martini, popularized by James Bond in the 1950s. Traditionally, it's made with aromatic gin and served with three olives, typically enjoyed as an aperitif. Remember to order it shaken, not stirred.