Nycfoodblog in Manhattan, New York: 7 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for New York

Must-try foods in New York

• Recession Special
  Recession SpecialAn enduring Lincoln Square institution located on 72nd Street. This iconic deal includes two grilled frankfurters topped with mustard, onions, or sauerkraut, paired with their signature frothy papaya drink. It remains the quintessential 'cheap eat' for locals and theatergoers alike.
• Chocolate Babka
  Chocolate BabkaWidely considered the best in New York City, this babka is famous for its Nutella and dark chocolate filling and incredibly flaky, buttery dough. The Lincoln Square location is a prime spot to grab a loaf or a single-serve slice before a show at Lincoln Center.
• Short Rib Mafaldine
  Short Rib MafaldineA neighborhood staple for pre-theater dining, this dish features ribbon-like pasta tossed in a rich 10-hour ragu with burst tomatoes, mascarpone, and parmesan. It is the go-to comfort dish for the high-volume crowds that frequent the Broadway and 63rd Street corridor.
• Thin Crust Pizza
  Thin Crust PizzaKnown for its 'paper-thin' crust, the pizza here is a local favorite, often paired with selections from their legendary 50-item antipasto bar. It’s a classic Upper West Side experience where the food is served with old-school New York efficiency.
• Pastrami Sandwich
  Pastrami SandwichLocated directly across from Lincoln Center, this historic saloon serves a traditional New York pastrami sandwich that rivals the downtown greats. Locals love the 'Cadillac' atmosphere and often pair the sandwich with fresh oysters from the raw bar.
• Patty Melt
  Patty MeltA 'Lincoln Square Legend,' this restored 1950s-style diner serves what many consider the neighborhood's best patty melt. It features a custom beef blend, caramelized onions, and melted Swiss on perfectly griddled rye bread, embodying nostalgic New York comfort.

Trip guide

• About New York
  About New YorkLincoln Square is a sub-neighborhood of Manhattan’s Upper West Side, traditionally defined as the area between West 59th and West 72nd Streets, bounded by Central Park and the Hudson River. Historical Heritage The area was originally known as San Juan Hill in the early 1900s, serving as a residential district for African American and Afro-Caribbean communities.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Lincoln Square is during the shoulder seasons of April to June or September to November, when mild temperatures (50°F–75°F) make walking between the Lincoln Center and Central Park ideal. Peak crowds and prices hit during the summer and the December holiday season, while January and February offer the best off-peak value for budget travelers willing to brave the cold. For dessert lovers.
• Getting around
  Getting around New York

  • Subway Take the 1 train directly to the 66th Street-Lincoln Center station for immediate access. Alternatively, use the A, B, C, D, or 1 trains to 59th Street-Columbus Circle and walk north.
  • Bus Multiple MTA bus routes serve the area, including the M5, M7, M10, M11, M20, and M104.
  • Walking and Biking The neighborhood is highly pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and scenic paths near Central Park. For local travel, use the Citi Bike program.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use the 59th Street-Columbus Circle or 66th Street-Lincoln Center stations for the most direct subway access to the area's main venues.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before performances at Lincoln Center to clear security and navigate the large campus without rushing.
  • Walk on the right side of the sidewalk and step aside completely if you need to stop for photos or directions to avoid blocking the flow of busy pedestrians.
• What’s new
  What’s new in New York

  • Summer for the City 2026: A massive outdoor festival at Lincoln Center featuring free social dance nights, silent discos.
  • Breads Bakery Sourdough: The Lincoln Square location remains a viral staple for its slow-fermented artisanal sourdough loaves and world-famous chocolate babka.
• 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.