Check out our list of classic restaurants to eat well in New York – the list was created entirely based on my experiences in the city and can help you escape the “tourist hunters”!
Classic restaurants to eat well in New York
Katz delicacies
Opened in 1888, Katz Deli is the most famous in New York and has appeared in countless films and television series – the most emblematic scene filmed there is from “Harry and Sally”, when Meg Ryan is faking an orgasm. The place is very well known and, to enter, you may have to wait in line, but the pastrami is worth it!
This is a gastronomic experience that you cannot miss in NYC. I shared a pastrami sandwich with my husband and we ordered cucumber pickles as a side – and almost had leftovers! On the walls, you will find many photos of famous people who passed through there and, among the regulars, many locals. And, even with a packed house, the service is quick and friendly.
Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY | Menu
Grays Papaya
The best hot dog I've ever had in my life – and one of the most iconic in the city too, as well as being super cheap! Despite being located in one of the most chic areas of the city, this is a simple and inexpensive place that works great for a quick meal on the way to Central Park – exactly like we did!
The place has a simple hot dog, as you'd expect in the United States, but the sausage is very good and the bread is soft. There is the option of a simple dog, with just bread and sausage, and there is also the option of eating it with chili and cheddar. Gray's Papaya is open 24 hours a day and is so successful that they sell 6,000 hot dogs on a weekend day.
Address: 2090 Broadway, New York, NY | Menu
Lombardi’s Pizza
Lombardi's was founded in 1905, becoming the first pizzeria in the United States – today, there are more than 75,000 pizzerias there. It's located in the Little Italy neighborhood and offers the same classic recipes since its opening, with pizzas baked in a coal oven, topped with San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella and basil (just writing it makes my mouth water!).
Expect a line, after all, American pizza started here – but the wait is worth it! The restaurant is charming, the pizza is delicious (and very different from Neapolitan) and the decor is beautiful! In the past, they served pizza by the slice for 5 dollars, but nowadays you have to buy it whole (the price ranges from 18 to 22 dollars).
Endereço: 32 Spring St, New York, NY | Menu
Empire Diner
One classic diner from the beginning of the last century, fully restored and with art deco decoration. We went there in the morning and my husband ordered the typical American breakfast and I went for the waffle (Belgium waffles). The dishes were plentiful and both were simply wonderful. The waffle comes with a divine mascarpone cream… After eating, you can do like us and stroll along the High Line next door and also enjoy the extra cool Chelsea Market, very close by!
Address: 210 10th Ave, New York, NY | Menu
Vincent’s Restaurant
The Italian restaurant is a classic in the city, opened in 1904 and is located right at the entrance to Little Italy, the little part of the Lower East Side dedicated to the Italian immigrants who settled there. From the facade and small tables with checkered tablecloths, you can already tell that the restaurant is traditional and family-friendly – the current manager is heir to the founder and has kept the recipes as they were at the beginning of the restaurant, which, they say, was frequented by mobsters.
There are photos of famous customers on the walls and the food is delicious, with plenty of seafood options. I tried the traditional spaghetti, accompanied by white wine and I loved it, despite the slightly high price. Great service, beautiful and cozy place…. The highlight is the pasta sauces – try the marinara – and of course the recipe is secret!
Address: 119 Mott St, Front A, New York, NY | Menu
Nathan’s Famous
In 1916, Polish immigrant Nathan Handwerker opened a nickel hot dog stand in Coney Island with a $300 loan from two friends and his wife's secret seasoning recipe. Today, Nathan's is the most famous hot dog in the world, with restaurants around the world, products in every supermarket in America, and millions of fans. And yes, the original Coney Island restaurant is still there on the corner of Surf and Stillwell – home of the annual Hot Dog Eating Contest (the sign with last year's record is outside, showing the scores).
One of its oldest customers was mobster Al Capone, but the place was frequented by Hollywood stars of the golden age of cinema, President Roosevelt and many others. It is said that, to celebrate the end of Prohibition, Nathan served free beer all day at Coney Island – that alone made me sympathize with him. The hot dog is delicious and very simple (bread+sausage+sauce) and the beer is always cold – ideal for after a walk along the Coney Island pier, like we did!
Address: 1310 Surf Ave – Coney Island, NYC | Menu
Sylvia’s
Sylvia's Restaurant, “The Queen of Soul Food”, was founded by Sylvia Woods in 1962. Born and raised on a farm in North Carolina, she dreamed of swapping the countryside for the bright lights of NYC, which she managed to accomplish with a impressive entrepreneurial spirit.
Established in the historic Harlem neighborhood, Sylvia is a community favorite known for its hearty, beautifully seasoned dishes. Serving authentic soul food For over 55 years, this icon continues to be a culinary must-visit for foodies who are getting to know New York. The fantastic atmosphere mixes locals with people from all over the world, there is superb service and the food… The food is southern and excellent! I ordered the dish of the day (turkey wings cooked with farofa) – in all dishes, you can choose two side dishes. I spent 17 dollars for a great meal! Tip: once there, sit at the table where Barack Obama sat and take a photo in the same position: it's a classic!
Endereço: 328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY | Menu
Yonah Shimmel Knish Bakery
One knish is an Eastern European snack popularized in North America by Jewish immigrants that consists primarily of potatoes, onions, and seasoned stuffing wrapped in a thin layer of dough that is baked, never fried. To try the real knish with its different fillings, only at Yonah, a bakery kosher beloved among New Yorkers!
What I like most about it is that there is no frills there: the place is very simple and has a worn-out appearance, but it is a must-visit for those who like Jewish cuisine and want to have a truly New York experience – Woody Allen is one of the customers of this century-old bakery.
I ordered the chocolate knish with cheese and blueberry and they were delicious. There are vegan and vegetarian options on the menu. The main tip is: go hungry! The snack is plentiful and feels more like a meal!
Address: 137 E Houston St, New York, NY | Menu
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