National Geographic in Manhattan, New York

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Manhattan

Must-try foods in Manhattan

• Pastrami on Rye
  Pastrami on RyeThe quintessential Manhattan deli staple, specifically the hand-carved, spice-rubbed pastrami at Katz’s Delicatessen. This Jewish deli icon on the Lower East Side has been serving these massive, melt-in-your-mouth sandwiches since 1888, traditionally paired with spicy brown mustard and a side of half-sour pickles.
• Everything Bagel with Lox and Schmear
  Everything Bagel with Lox and SchmearA cornerstone of New York breakfast culture. For the gold standard, locals head to Russ & Daughters or Ess-a-Bagel for a hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagel topped with silky Nova smoked salmon, a generous 'schmear' of cream cheese, capers, and red onion.
• New York-Style Thin Crust Pizza
  New York-Style Thin Crust PizzaCharacterized by its large, hand-tossed thin crust that is crisp yet pliable enough to be folded in half. While Joe’s Pizza remains the classic 'street slice' benchmark, 2026 trends see enthusiasts flocking to L’Industrie Pizzeria in the West Village for their sourdough crust and burrata toppings.
• Chopped Cheese
  Chopped CheeseOften called the 'Philly Cheesesteak of NYC,' this sandwich originated in East Harlem bodegas. It consists of ground beef, onions, and melted American cheese grilled together on a flat top, then chopped and served on a hero roll with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
• Halal Chicken Over Rice
  Halal Chicken Over RiceThe ultimate Manhattan street food experience. Originally popularized by The Halal Guys on 53rd and 6th, this dish features yellow basmati rice topped with spiced chicken, pita bread, and the legendary, highly addictive 'white sauce' and fiery red chili sauce.
• Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles
  Cumin Lamb Biang Biang NoodlesA modern Manhattan classic from Xi’an Famous Foods. These wide, hand-ripped chewy noodles are tossed in a pungent, spicy sauce made with heavy cumin, chili oil, and tender chunks of lamb, representing the bold flavors of Western Chinese cuisine that have taken over the city.

Trip guide

• About Manhattan
  About ManhattanManhattan is an island borough of New York City, bounded by the Hudson, East, and Harlem Rivers. Historically, the land was inhabited by the Lenape people before Dutch settlers established New Amsterdam in 1624. The English took control in 1664, renaming it New York.
• When to go
  When to goThe best times to visit Manhattan are from September to November and May to June, when the weather is pleasantly mild and the city’s parks are at their most scenic. While summer is hot and humid and winter can be bitterly cold, the holiday season in December remains a popular but expensive peak period. For the lowest rates and fewest crowds, aim for the off-peak months of January through March, though you should prepare for snow and freezing temperatures.
• Getting around
  Getting around Manhattan

  • Public Transit (AirTrain & Subway/Rail) From JFK or Newark (EWR), take the AirTrain to connect with the NYC Subway, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).
  • NYC Subway System The primary method for navigating Manhattan, operating 24/7 with extensive coverage. Use the OMNY contactless payment system to tap-and-go with your phone or credit card at any turnstile for a flat fare of $2.90 per.
  • Yellow Cabs & Rideshares Taxis can be hailed on the street (look for illuminated numbers), while Uber and Lyft are widely available via apps. These provide door-to-door convenience but are subject to Manhattan's significant traffic congestion.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always stand to the right on escalators and walk on the right side of sidewalks to allow faster pedestrians to pass on your left.
  • Step to the side of the sidewalk or subway platform before stopping to check your phone or a map to avoid blocking the flow of traffic.
  • Remove your backpack and hold it at your feet when boarding a crowded subway car to create more space for fellow passengers.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Manhattan

  • The New Museum's 60,000-square-foot expansion and OMA-designed zero-waste restaurant in Nolita.
  • Primark's 54,000-square-foot Manhattan flagship store opening at Herald Square.
• 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.