Eater in Manhattan, New York: 2 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for New York

Must-try foods in New York

• Pastrami on Rye
  Pastrami on RyeThe quintessential NYC deli experience, specifically the hand-carved, thick-cut pastrami at Katz’s Delicatessen. This Jewish deli staple is cured for weeks and smoked to a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, traditionally served on rye with a side of deli mustard and pickles.
• Bagel with Lox and Schmear
  Bagel with Lox and SchmearA New York breakfast icon. Upscale versions, such as those from Russ & Daughters, feature hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels topped with Gaspe Nova smoked salmon, high-quality cream cheese, and optional capers and red onions for a sophisticated balance of salt and cream.
• New York-Style Coal-Fired Pizza
  New York-Style Coal-Fired PizzaWhile the 'dollar slice' is iconic, the upscale coal-fired pies at institutions like Lucali or John’s of Bleecker Street offer a thin, blistered crust and premium toppings that locals and critics consistently rank as the city's finest pizza experience.
• Miso-Marinated Black Cod
  Miso-Marinated Black CodAn iconic dish that defined New York's high-end fusion scene, pioneered by Nobu Matsuhisa. The buttery, flaky cod is marinated in a sweet and savory miso glaze for days before being broiled to perfection, remaining a must-try for any fine-dining enthusiast.
• Caribbean Tasting Menu Dishes
  Caribbean Tasting Menu DishesTrending heavily in 2026, restaurants like Kabawa (ranked 1 by the NYT) are elevating West Indian flavors. Look for sophisticated takes on Caribbean staples, such as curried goat or snapper served with artisanal roti and heritage spices.
• Cronut
  CronutInvented by Dominique Ansel, this croissant-doughnut hybrid remains a legendary NYC pastry. In 2026, it continues to draw crowds for its monthly-changing flavors and its perfect balance of flaky layers and creamy filling.

Trip guide

• About New York
  About New YorkNew York City is a metropolis situated at the mouth of the Hudson River, comprising five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Originally settled by the Dutch as New Amsterdam in 1625, the settlement was transferred to English control in 1664 and renamed New York. It served as the capital of the United States from 1789 to 1790.
• When to go
  When to goThe best times to visit New York are during the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October, which offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter (January–March) is the most affordable off-peak period, it is often bitterly cold and windy. For the quintessential NYC experience, late November and December are peak times due to holiday festivities, though you will face the highest prices and largest crowds.
• Getting around
  Getting around New York

  • Airports and AirTrain New York is served by JFK, LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark (EWR) airports. From JFK and Newark, the AirTrain connects passengers to the subway or NJ Transit/LIRR rail lines for efficient travel into Manhattan.
  • MTA Subway and Bus System The 24/7 subway system is the most efficient way to navigate the five boroughs. You can pay using OMNY contactless tap-to-pay with a credit card or smartphone, which includes a fare-capping feature for frequent riders.
  • Yellow Taxis and Rideshares Iconic yellow cabs can be hailed on the street in Manhattan, while boro taxis serve the outer boroughs. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are also widely available, though traffic often makes them slower than the subway.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always stand to the right on escalators and walk on the right side of sidewalks to allow local commuters to pass on the left.
  • Use the OMNY contactless payment system with your smartphone or credit card for seamless entry at all subway turnstiles and on buses.
  • Budget for a standard gratuity of 18% to 22% at sit-down restaurants, as tips are a primary source of income for service staff.
• What’s new
  What’s new in New York

  • FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zones at Rockefeller Center and Brooklyn Bridge Park.
  • Centre 360: The newly opened public panoramic observatory atop the David N. Dinkins Municipal Building.
• New York City Tourism + Conventions↗
  New York City Tourism + ConventionsThe official destination marketing organization and visitor guide for the five boroughs of New York City, including Manhattan.