A Foodie’s Guide to NYC: Savory Bites

Embark on an epicurean discovery of New York’s best eats. Whether you’re craving the quintessential New York pizza or an authentic taco, scroll down to find out where to get the best savory bites in New York. 

Tick Tock Diner

Your first stop should be our very own Tick Tock Diner. And we’re not just saying it. This is a classic diner that brings back the retro days of sharing milkshakes while listening to an old jukebox. The 24-hour diner serves the best breakfasts, burgers and American-style comfort food. Check out our favorite dishes from Tick Tock Diner and get ready for mouth-watering descriptions. 

Pizza

Now that we’ve covered the must-eat American comfort food, let’s talk about pizza. Where can you find the best pizza in New York? It’s hard to say but there are two main contestants: Grimaldi’s, especially the Brooklyn location, is the most popular spot but Lombardi’s in Little Italy is just as delicious. Before ordering, remember that in New York a “slice” means simply a cheese pizza. 

Fun fact: Eating pizza won’t break the bank. Since the 1960s, the price of a slice of pizza in New York is, on average, the same as a single subway ride. Check out other things you didn’t know about NYC. 

Bagels

Another famous savory bite in New York is a bagel. Not just any bagel, though, a bagel with a schmear. “Schmear” is another New York-born word that refers to a bagel with an even layer of cream cheese. Although you can buy frozen bagels in many supermarkets, there’s nothing like a freshly baked one. Buy yours at Best Bagel & Coffee, right behind The New Yorker Hotel, or, if you have late-night cravings head to NY Jumbo Bagels. For more options, read our post on the best bagels in New York. 

Tacos

A taco place is called a “taqueria.” No, we don’t mean Taco Bell. If that’s your idea of a taco, you’re in for the surprise of a lifetime! Mexicans have brought the real deal to the streets of New York. The meat that goes into the tacos are usually marinated with fresh sauces like “adobo'' and “al pastor” to achieve a unique taste. The best tacos in New York are served in Los Tacos No. 1, Otto’s Tacos or Empellón, if you want a more sophisticated locale. 

Insider’s tip: When given the option between flour and corn tortilla, choose corn. 

Sandwiches

Sandwiches come in all shapes, sizes and combinations. If you want to visit just one of New York’s most popular sandwich shops, go to Katz’s Delicatessen in the Lower East Side and order their famous corned beef or pastrami. The New Yorker is close to Carnegie Deli, another great spot that cures its own meats and where cheesecakes come in a combo. 

Have you had enough savory bites? Then, it’s time for the best desserts in New York City!