A culinary journey through the heart of New York City, uncovering the most exquisite sweets and unforgettable savory delights the metropolis has to offer. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through a meticulously planned foodie adventure, ensuring every bite is a memorable one.

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The Ultimate Foodie’s Guide to New York City: A Journey Through NYC’s Best Sweets and Savory Eats

New York City is more than just a concrete jungle; it’s a vibrant tapestry of cultures, and nowhere is this more evident than in its unparalleled food scene. Last month, my family and I embarked on an epic three-day gastronomic adventure, meticulously traversing 26.5 miles on foot in pursuit of the city’s most delectable offerings. From hidden bakeries to iconic delis, our mission was clear: to taste the very best of what NYC has to offer. Even after countless visits, the city’s culinary landscape continues to surprise and delight, proving it’s a destination I’ll forever crave.

Planning Your Epic NYC Food Adventure: Strategies for Success

Our culinary explorations are never spontaneous; they are the result of extensive research. We delve into Yelp reviews, scour magazine articles, pore over fellow food bloggers’ recommendations, and watch countless TV shows highlighting NYC’s culinary gems. A secret weapon in our planning arsenal is the invaluable input from my Instagram followers, who consistently provide fantastic, off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Once we’ve bookmarked our must-try spots and identified their signature dishes, I meticulously map out our route. This strategic approach allows us to seamlessly navigate from one delicious destination to the next, maximizing our time and minimizing travel between bites. It’s a system we’ve perfected, and we absolutely love the process!

Our Golden Rules for Feasting in NYC: A Balanced Approach

To truly savor the flavors of New York, we adhere to two primary rules (most of the time!). Firstly, we make it a point to walk everywhere possible. This isn’t just about exercise; it’s about building an honest appetite between stops and gently offsetting some of the glorious calories we consume. More importantly, walking immerses us in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, allowing us to discover hidden gems and experience the authentic rhythm of NYC. Secondly, we practice a “two-bite rule” at each location. For every item we order, each of us enjoys two generous bites. If, by some rare chance, the first bite doesn’t impress us (which is uncommon, thanks to our rigorous research), we conserve our appetite for something truly exceptional. However, most of the time, we’re indulging in incredible eats, so those two bites are a test of willpower, knowing that a myriad of other delights awaits us throughout the day. Of course, there are moments when a dish is so extraordinarily delicious that the “two-bite rule” is happily abandoned, and we devour the entire serving. Similarly, reservations at upscale restaurants are typically treated as full meals, where we savor every course.

Many people ask about our strategy for unfinished food. Depending on the item, we often share it with fellow food enthusiasts around us – a fun way to connect with locals and travelers! Anything that keeps fresh is carefully packed and brought back to our hotel. Sometimes, we even offer it to those on the street in need. I’ve even started bringing small baggies in my suitcase to transport the absolute best treats back home, allowing us to extend our NYC culinary experience and share bites with friends and family. This trip’s haul included an assortment of irresistible goodies, ensuring the delicious memories lingered long after our return.

I’ll begin by detailing each of our favorite stops, complete with links to their websites (where available). For your convenience, a comprehensive list with Yelp links to all recommended locations is provided at the very end of this post, making it easy for you to check reviews, bookmark your top picks, and plan your own delicious itinerary. Be warned: reading this guide is likely to ignite an insatiable craving for a trip to NYC!

And so, with our appetites primed and our spirits high, we boarded the plane, ready to immerse ourselves in the culinary wonders of the Big Apple…

Our little one was captivated by the views from the window as we soared above, and once we landed in the bustling city, she found it utterly awe-mazing. The energy was palpable, and we were eager to hit the ground running – or rather, eating. Having heard rave reviews about a particular donut shop in Brooklyn, I couldn’t resist asking our Uber driver for a quick detour en route to the hotel. Priorities, right?

Sweet Indulgences: A Deep Dive into NYC’s Dessert Scene

NYC Donuts: A Hole Lot of Happiness

New York City’s donut scene is an absolute delight, offering everything from classic old-fashioned styles to innovative, gourmet creations. Here are our top picks that will satisfy any donut craving:

Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop (Brooklyn): Stepping into Peter Pan is like taking a delicious trip back in time. While all their donuts are excellent, their old-fashioned variety truly stands out. These are, without a doubt, some of the best old-fashioned donuts we’ve ever tasted – perfectly crisp on the outside, wonderfully tender within, and bursting with nostalgic flavor. A true Brooklyn gem that demands a visit.
Dough Doughnuts (Flatiron, Brooklyn & various kiosks): Dough is renowned for its raised yeast doughnuts, which are nothing short of perfection. These substantial, airy doughnuts come in an array of creative and fantastic flavors. Our absolute favorite was the dulce de leche with almonds – a harmonious blend of sweet caramel and nutty crunch. Don’t miss their unique “doughkas” – a babka made with their signature doughnut dough. The Mexican chocolate doughkas was an out-of-this-world experience, offering a rich, chocolatey, and wonderfully textured treat. This shop truly elevates the humble doughnut to an art form.
Doughnut Plant (Multiple Locations): My second visit to Doughnut Plant was just as exceptional as the first. Their doughnuts are distinctively unique, boasting creative flavors and a quality that speaks for itself. The texture is unlike any other, making each bite memorable. Our personal favorites include the wild blueberry cake, coffee cake, the delightful peanut butter & blackberry jam-filled, and the luxurious crème brûlée. Honestly, every doughnut we sampled here left a lasting impression. It’s a place that consistently delivers innovative and delicious treats.

NYC Cookies: Bites of Heavenly Bliss

New York City truly excels in the art of cookie making, transforming a simple treat into an extraordinary experience. Here are the cookie spots that captured our hearts and taste buds:

Levain Bakery (Multiple Locations): A classic for a reason! I’ve visited Levain Bakery countless times, and their legendary cookies never cease to amaze. I quite literally dream about these colossal, perfectly baked cookies. I even keep a secret stash in my freezer for those moments when only a Levain cookie will do – they’re a special occasion in themselves. Nothing else compares to their unique texture and rich flavor. Available in four incredible flavors (chocolate chip walnut, dark chocolate chocolate chip, dark chocolate peanut butter chip, and oatmeal raisin), you can’t go wrong. Our absolute favorites are the dark chocolate chocolate chip and the classic chocolate chip walnut. Despite being a tiny bakery with a modest selection of other goods, people patiently line up for these cookies, and they are absolutely worth every minute of the wait. If you’re in NYC, make a pilgrimage to Levain Bakery – it’s a cookie experience like no other!

Culture Espresso (Garment District): We initially sought out Culture Espresso for their coffee, but it was their chocolate chip cookie that truly captivated us. While their latte was arguably the best we had in the city, the cookie was utterly divine! This small, inviting coffee shop offers a great selection of baked goods, but their in-house baked cookies are the true stars. We were fortunate enough to arrive just as a fresh batch emerged from the oven, providing us with warm, gooey centers and a delightful crisp exterior. This cookie gives Levain a serious run for its money in the “favorite cookie on the planet” title. I’m already dreaming of recreating it and planning my return visit!

City Cakes (Chelsea): Despite the name, I came to City Cakes for the cookies – specifically, their half-pound cookies! These enormous, super-chewy delights come in a fantastic variety of flavors. We indulged in the classic chocolate chip, a rich red velvet, and the irresistible Reese’s peanut butter, loving every single one. Tucked away in the basement of a brownstone, this tiny bakery is an absolute must-visit for any serious cookie enthusiast.

NYC Ice Cream: Scooping Up Happiness

New York City’s ice cream scene is vast and varied, making the choice of where to go an exciting challenge. We might just need a dedicated ice cream tour next time! Here are the frozen delights that stole the show on this trip:

Ample Hills Creamery (Hell’s Kitchen, Brooklyn & more): We stumbled upon Ample Hills Creamery by pure chance inside Gotham Market, and it completely blew us away. After a few delightful samples and a glance at their tempting cone options, we quickly realized our “two-bite rule” needed an upgrade to a “two-scoop rule!” Their flavor combinations are incredibly fun and utterly delicious. We were absolutely captivated by “The Munchies” (pretzel-infused ice cream with clusters of Ritz crackers, potato chips, pretzels, and mini M&Ms) and “Hell’s Kitchen Sink” (Guinness dark chocolate ice cream, chili-spiced brownies, brown butter cookie dough, and toffee bar crunch). I enjoyed my scoops on a chocolate chip cookie cone, while Brandon opted for a pretzel cone. We’re huge fans and eagerly anticipate our next visit!
Big Gay Ice Cream (East Village & West Village): This iconic ice cream shop had been on my NYC wishlist for ages, and I’m so glad we finally made it! Why did it take us so long?! It’s absolutely awesome. Specializing in soft serve, Big Gay Ice Cream offers the best we’ve ever tasted – incredibly smooth, creamy, and perfect for dipping. We chose the “American Globs,” a vanilla soft serve masterpiece covered in crushed pretzels and sea salt, then dipped in rich chocolate. It’s like a gourmet version of a classic soft-serve, but infinitely better! We should never have shared one; we were practically fighting for the last bites. Simply delightful!

Sundaes & Cones (East Village): This charming ice cream parlor boasts an impressive selection of unique and delicious flavors, blending Asian-inspired creations with traditional favorites. The staff was incredibly generous, allowing us to sample many options. It was a tough choice, but we settled on salted caramel, pistachio, and mocha chip. Each scoop was incredibly creamy and absolutely dreamy. A perfect spot for adventurous palates!
Cones (West Village): We almost skipped Cones, but I’m incredibly grateful we didn’t – their ice cream is truly astounding! With a delightful mix of familiar and unique flavors, Cones introduced me to a new favorite: corn ice cream. Yes, corn, the vegetable! If you’ve never tried it, you absolutely must. I’m usually not one for unconventional flavors, but a small sample won me over instantly. It’s sweet, creamy, and surprisingly delicious, especially with a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s an ice cream experience unlike any other, truly something special!

I ordered a scoop of this amazing corn ice cream over a scoop of rich dark chocolate – a surprisingly delicious combination! Brandon opted for peanut butter caramel over coffee mocha chip, a truly heavenly blend. It was a beautiful evening, so we took our cones and enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the West Village. Pure perfection.

Other Memorable Sweets: Beyond Donuts, Cookies, and Ice Cream

Beyond the classic categories, NYC’s bakeries and pastry shops offer an incredible array of unique sweet treats. We sampled many, and while some were good and others just okay, a few truly stood out. Allow me to share these exceptional discoveries with you:

Dominique Ansel Kitchen (Greenwich Village): Not to be confused with his original bakery, Dominique Ansel Kitchen offers a hybrid fast-casual restaurant and bakery experience, where nearly everything is “finished-to-order.” The atmosphere is charmingly casual, with a menu featuring many appealing concoctions. We were particularly drawn to the Ultimate S’mores – a masterpiece crafted with homemade Speculoos cookies, all-honey marshmallow, rich dark chocolate whiskey ganache, and a sprinkle of sea salt. This creation was as visually spectacular as it was delicious! While we sampled about six different items, another true standout was the Cinnamon Spun Roll with Apple Jack Frosting. Reminiscent of a cinnamon roll but with incredibly unique flavors, it was delightfully fun to pull apart and eat. I’m definitely inspired to recreate this one!

Breads Bakery (Union Square & more): I knew I would adore Breads Bakery from the moment I discovered it on Yelp, and my excitement was instantly confirmed upon stepping into its bustling interior. This place is a treasure trove of pastries, baked goods, and breads. We came specifically for their famous chocolate babka and Nutella rugelach, and neither disappointed! If I lived nearby, this bakery would be a delightful (and dangerous) indulgence. The babka, with its perfectly crisp exterior and tender, flaky, chocolate-rich interior, was phenomenal. The Nutella rugelach was some of the best we’ve ever had, with the creamy hazelnut filling making it even more memorable. Breads Bakery, we will certainly be back!
Wafels & Dinges (Various locations & carts): My daughter Baker and I first visited Wafels & Dinges during a previous NYC trip, and I couldn’t wait to introduce Brandon to it. Their Belgian-style wafels are incredibly light and crispy, and the “dinges” (toppings) offer a fun array of choices. While they have multiple locations and food carts throughout the city, we always gravitate towards the cart on the southeast corner of Central Park, near the zoo entrance. It’s a perfect spot to grab your wafel and then enjoy it on one of the park benches, ideal for people-watching. This time, we ordered “de Elvis Wafel,” featuring peanut butter, banana, thick crispy candied bacon, and a drizzle of honey. I added an extra drizzle of Nutella for an explosion of flavor! I’m sure Elvis himself would approve. Absolutely heavenly!
Magnolia Bakery (Multiple Locations): I’m a huge fan of Magnolia Bakery’s famous banana pudding. When I heard they had introduced a chocolate banana pudding just before our trip, I knew I had to try it. We got a small container, and while we still prefer the original, this chocolate version was wonderfully delicious. It features layers of Oreos, fresh bananas, creamy chocolate pudding, and delicate chocolate shavings. I even recreated it for our Easter Sunday lunch, and it was a huge hit!
Lady M Cake Boutique (Multiple Locations): A friend’s recommendation led us to Lady M, nestled in the basement food hall of The Plaza Hotel. They are renowned for their exquisite cakes, particularly their elegant mille crêpes cakes. These creations are absolutely beautiful – almost too pretty to eat, but only almost! We savored slices of both the green tea and chocolate banana. The green tea was, hands down, the superior choice; light, flavorful, and utterly delightful.
Epicerie Boulud (Multiple Locations): After enjoying Lady M’s offerings in The Plaza Food Hall, we discovered a Daniel Boulud bakery and couldn’t resist sampling their beautiful pastries. We ordered a Nutella Stuffed Croissant (speechless!), a fabulous Raspberry Chocolate Croissant, and a remarkably good chocolate chip cookie. Every item was delicious! If you find yourself near an Epicerie Boulud, do yourself a favor and stop in for one of these delightful treats.
William Greenberg Desserts (Upper East Side & The Plaza Food Hall): Another fantastic discovery in The Plaza Food Hall! William Greenberg Desserts was on my list, but I had planned to visit their main Upper East Side location. I’d heard great things about their black and white cookie, and honestly, I’d never been particularly impressed by them before. So, I was eager to give this one a try. Despite their amazing selection of other baked goods and candies, we focused on the black and white cookie and took it to Central Park for a leisurely tasting. And let me tell you, it was incredibly yummy! It completely won us over, making us big fans of this particular black and white cookie.
Rice to Riches (Nolita): Last, but certainly not least, on our list of favorite sweet stops is this unique spot dedicated entirely to rice pudding. It operates much like a froyo shop, offering a variety of rice pudding flavors with an array of toppings. While we’d never been big fans of rice pudding before, we absolutely adored Rice to Riches. We sampled several delightful flavors, from “Hazelnut Chocolate Bear Hug” to “Oreo” Gasm and “Be My Banana Coconut.” Ultimately, we chose “Sex Drugs & Rocky Road” and added a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream. This place is hilariously over-the-top (just check out the funny sayings posted throughout the shop in my photos!), and their rice pudding genuinely does not suck!

Savory Sensations: Uncovering NYC’s Best Meals

Having satisfied our sweet tooth, it’s time to turn our attention to the savory side of New York City’s culinary landscape. While I tend to focus on sweet treats on my Instagram, Brandon (aka @dadacookstoo) is the one highlighting our savory discoveries. Here are some of our favorite savory eats from this trip to NYC:

NYC Bagels: The Quintessential New York Bite

Best Bagel & Coffee (Midtown West): New York City is famous for its bagels, and while a simple smear of cream cheese is delightful, this city truly shines with its elaborate bagel sandwiches. Imagine enormous, perfectly chewy bagels generously stuffed with cream cheese, smoked salmon, various meats, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese – you name it. The bagel sandwiches at Best Bagel & Coffee were truly exceptional! Don’t be deterred by the line stretching out the door; it moves incredibly fast, a testament to their efficient operation and immense popularity. It’s a sure sign you’re in for a treat!

I ordered a bacon, egg, and cheese on a whole wheat everything bagel, and it was so incredibly delicious I could have easily eaten two, had we not planned to eat our way through the entire city that day. Absolutely fantastic!

Brandon opted for smoked salmon and scallion cream cheese on a whole wheat everything bagel, and it was out of this world – a perfect blend of fresh, savory flavors.

NYC Ramen & Delis: Iconic Comfort Food

Ippudo (East Village & Midtown West): New York City’s ramen scene is legendary, and Brandon, who travels to NYC frequently, had raved about Ippudo countless times. Trying some awesome ramen was one of my most anticipated experiences of the trip, and Ippudo certainly delivered! We arrived during prime Friday night dining hours, so we added our names to the list and enjoyed a pleasant hour-long stroll around the neighborhood before receiving a text that our table was ready. Brandon, a seasoned Ippudo visitor, knew exactly what to order: fun cocktails, incredibly tender pork belly buns, and their classic ramen, served spicy with a perfectly cooked egg. Everything was unbelievably good! Next time, I’m definitely ordering my own bowl of ramen – it’s too delicious to share!

Katz’s Delicatessen (Lower East Side): We had visited Katz’s six years prior and were eager to return to this iconic NYC institution. It’s a culinary landmark that everyone should experience at least once. The line can be long and a bit chaotic at the ordering counter, but it moves incredibly fast, thanks to their friendly and efficient service. We ordered the legendary pastrami reuben, and it was just as magnificent as we remembered – piled high with tender, flavorful pastrami, perfectly balanced with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing. Pure deli perfection!

One happy husband after this satisfying stop!

Russ & Daughters Cafe (Lower East Side): We had been admiring countless beautiful food pictures from Russ & Daughters Cafe, particularly their smoked salmon boards and sharing platters. Brandon, a true lox enthusiast, insisted we try “The Classic Board,” which featured exquisite smoked salmon, creamy cream cheese, fresh tomato, red onion, capers, and a perfectly toasted bagel. It was absolutely awesome! Every ingredient was incredibly fresh, and the simple flavors came together in a truly delicious harmony. We also ordered the potato latkes, served with wild salmon roe and crème fraîche, which were equally outstanding. Russ & Daughters Cafe offers fantastic food in a wonderful atmosphere. They also have a market down the street where locals can shop for their favorite appetizing goods.

Our little Brookie even managed a good snooze at Russ & Daughters, proving that even tiny food critics appreciate a good meal (or a peaceful nap after one)!

The Spotted Pig (West Village): To secure a spot at The Spotted Pig, we made sure to arrive at 5 PM for their 5:30 PM opening, still anticipating a 45-minute wait. They take your cell number and text you when your table is ready, so we happily explored the charming West Village until it was time to dine. We came specifically for their deviled eggs and the legendary sheep’s milk ricotta gnudi with brown butter and crispy sage. Both dishes were absolutely fantastic! The deviled eggs were perfectly executed – a richer, more flavorful version of the traditional classic. But the gnudi… oh, the gnudi! They were melt-in-your-mouth amazing, probably one of the most perfectly crafted dishes we’ve ever eaten. This dish belongs on everyone’s “must-try before I die” list; it’s truly that good!

While everyone around us was ordering the burger, we felt a slight pressure to try it, despite our focus on the deviled eggs and gnudi. Honestly, we were a little disappointed; the meat was somewhat bland, and the Roquefort cheese overwhelmed the overall flavor. However, the other dishes were so outstanding that our love for The Spotted Pig remains strong!

The Halal Guys (W 53rd St & 6th Ave – Original Cart): Despite several previous trips to NYC, we had never tried the famous Halal Guys food cart until now. We visited the original location at W 53rd Street and 6th Avenue in the mid-afternoon. Although there was a line, we only waited about 10 minutes – a testament to their efficient service. We ordered the chicken and beef combo over rice, which comes with a small salad and pita, all served in one convenient container. We’d heard their sauces were incredible and that the red one was intensely spicy, so we requested a generous drizzle of the white sauce and just a touch of the red. They also provide sauce packets, but the initial amount was perfect. The food was really, really good. The meats were incredibly flavorful, and as rumored, the sauces were addicting! Everything came together beautifully, offering a fantastic and incredibly satisfying meal for an excellent price.

Unique Savory Finds: Beyond the Staples

Murray’s Cheese Bar (Greenwich Village): A restaurant entirely dedicated to cheese and wine? Count us in! Our experience at Murray’s Cheese Bar was exceptional. Despite arriving without a reservation during a busy Saturday night, the staff quickly and graciously accommodated us and our stroller at the bar. This vantage point offered a fascinating view of the cheesemongers preparing their exquisite boards. We ordered the “Cheesemonger’s Choice” with four cheeses and four meats, accompanied by a couple of glasses of wine, and we were in heaven. The way the cheesemonger expertly paired each cheese with its accompanying meat and honey/jam was absolutely masterful. We could have happily stayed at that bar for hours, savoring every thoughtful combination.
Bleecker Street Pizza (West Village): A culinary tour of NYC wouldn’t be complete without a slice of authentic New York pizza. Several years ago, we did a pizza crawl through the West Village, and Bleecker Street Pizza, along with Keste and John’s, emerged as our favorites. Since Keste and John’s are typically sit-down, whole-pizza establishments, we opted for Bleecker Street this time for their convenient by-the-slice option. Their pizza is spot on: a thin yet crispy crust, fresh and flavorful toppings, and incredibly generous slices. Pizza mission accomplished, and it was glorious!
Minetta Tavern (Greenwich Village): Our visit to Minetta Tavern was driven by one specific goal: to try their renowned Black Label Burger, rumored to be one of the best in the city. And let me tell you, the rumors are true – it’s absolutely amazing! While it’s a pricey burger at $30, it is worth every single penny. The patty is a blend of high-quality cuts, and ours was cooked perfectly to a medium-rare. With no cheese, just caramelized onions, the perfectly cooked meat, and a soft bun, it’s a masterclass in burger perfection. Served alongside crispy fries and paired with a fine glass of red wine, it was a truly heavenly dining experience.

Tip: If you’re solely focused on the burger, skip the main dining room wait and grab a seat at the bar. The bartenders are excellent, and the ambiance is equally relaxing and enjoyable.

Little Collins Cafe (Midtown East): On our last morning in NYC, we decided to embark on an “avocado toast run.” I had four places on our list, but the first two stops were so incredibly delicious that we devoured both toasts entirely, leaving no room for anything else. NYC had officially stuffed us! Our first stop was Little Collins Cafe, a quaint and bustling coffee shop in Midtown East. Their menu boasts several appealing items, but we were there for “The Smash” – avocado and feta mash on toast, topped with chili flakes and pepitas. We both agreed it was the best avocado toast we’d ever had. We battled for the last bites and were genuinely sad when it was gone. It’s one of those dishes that makes you consider moving to NYC just to have constant access! Seriously, the multigrain bread had the perfect texture, thickness, and toastiness, and the avocado and feta mash, simple yet elevated by chili flakes, pepitas, and cilantro, made it truly special. We’ve replicated this toast numerous times at home since our trip. Pure joy!

Little Collins also serves a fabulous latte and offers a great selection of baked goods. We enjoyed a chocolate espresso coconut cookie and a peanut butter and jelly muffin alongside our latte. We absolutely adore this cafe!

Bluestone Lane (Multiple Locations): Next on our avocado toast tour was Bluestone Lane. We visited their tiny original location in the basement atrium of an office building in Midtown East. Though small, they delivered big on both their latte and avocado smash. We’re fairly certain they use the same multigrain bread as Little Collins Cafe, which we absolutely love – it truly makes for a great avocado toast. Their avocado is smashed simply with lemon, salt, and pepper, then topped with chili flakes and a drizzle of olive oil. We added feta, cherry tomatoes, and prosciutto, but frankly, the pure and simple avocado smash is probably what we’d opt for next time. While the additions were enjoyable, there’s something about a perfectly executed, unadorned avocado toast that makes my heart sing.
We highly recommend Bluestone Lane’s latte too. There’s nothing quite like a well-made latte!
Num Pang Sandwich Shop (Multiple Locations): This sandwich shop repeatedly surfaced in my research, making it an unmissable stop. Num Pang is celebrated for its Vietnamese-style sandwiches, a personal favorite, so I knew if they lived up to their reputation, we’d love it. With several locations throughout the city, we visited one that featured a window bar with a few stools. If you prefer a full sit-down experience, other locations might be more suitable. Since the weather was beautiful, we grabbed our sandwiches and found a bench down the street to enjoy them.

We opted for the five-spiced glazed pork belly sandwich with pickled Asian pear. All sandwiches come with refreshing cucumber, pickled carrots, fresh cilantro, and a creamy chili mayo, served on a baguette that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy within. The pork belly was incredibly tender and bursting with flavor. Truly, a phenomenally good sandwich!

Reflecting on Our Culinary Journey: NYC, We Love You!

And so concludes our most recent adventure through the vibrant streets and delectable eateries of New York City. It was truly an amazing weekend, filled with endless strolls, culinary discoveries, and cherished family moments. Sharing this experience with Brandon and Brookie, navigating the city one delicious bite at a time, creates memories that we will treasure forever.

We eagerly anticipate our next visit, looking forward to revisiting some of these incredible culinary havens and exploring new ones that continue to emerge in this dynamic city. New York City, your flavors and spirit have truly captured our hearts!

Your Essential NYC Food Map: A Curated List of Our Favorite Spots

Do you have a beloved NYC sweet treat or savory eat that we absolutely must know about, but didn’t mention above? Please share your recommendations in the comments below! We’re always eager to discover new culinary treasures.

Here’s a concise recap of all the places recommended above, complete with Yelp links. Use this guide to easily check out other reviews, bookmark your personal favorites, and meticulously plan your own unforgettable foodie trip. Please note, some establishments have multiple locations, but the links provided lead to the specific location we visited.

Recommended NYC DONUTS:

Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop
Dough Doughnuts
Doughnut Plant

Recommended NYC COOKIES:

Levain Bakery
Culture Espresso
City Cakes

Recommended NYC ICE CREAM:

Ample Hills Creamery
Big Gay Ice Cream
Sundaes & Cones
Cones

Recommended NYC OTHER SWEETS:

Dominique Ansel Kitchen
Breads Bakery
Wafels & Dinges
Magnolia Bakery
Lady M Cake Boutique
Epicerie Boulud
William Greenberg Desserts
Rice to Riches

Recommended NYC SAVORY EATS:

Best Bagel & Coffee
Ippudo
Katz’s Delicatessen
Russ & Daughters Cafe
The Spotted Pig
The Halal Guys
Murray’s Cheese Bar
Bleecker Street Pizza
Minetta Tavern
Little Collins Cafe
Bluestone Lane Coffee
Num Pang Sandwich Shop

This is my second in-depth guide to traveling and eating in NYC. For more food recommendations and fun things to do when visiting with kids, click here to read about my trip to NYC with Baker in Fall 2015!

Happy traveling and happy eating!

xoxo,