S3 in New York: 12 Spots From the Video

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for New York

Must-try foods in New York

• Vegetarian Fish Balls
  Vegetarian Fish BallsA unique pescatarian hidden gem on 9th Avenue. These spiced 'fish' balls (often made with sustainable whitefish or plant-based alternatives) are served in bowls with fresh Mediterranean vegetables, highlighted in 2026 local guides for their intense flavor.
• Khao Soi
  Khao SoiAn iconic Hell's Kitchen Thai-fusion dish. This northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup is rich and aromatic, featuring pickled mustard greens and crispy noodles. It remains a local staple in 2026 for its consistent quality and bold spice profile.
• Filetto di Salmone
  Filetto di SalmoneA classic Italian seafood preparation in a cozy, authentic setting. The salmon is expertly seared and served with a lemon-infused sauce, creamy cauliflower puree, and grilled asparagus, making it a top-rated choice for pescatarians in the neighborhood.
• Soft Tofu Jigae
  Soft Tofu JigaeA trending 2026 favorite in the neighborhood's growing Korean food scene. This bubbling, spicy soft tofu stew is a comforting, meat-free option that locals swear by for its authentic depth and 'home-cooked' feel.
• Maitake Steam Bao
  Maitake Steam BaoA high-end plant-based dish that uses French techniques. These steamed buns feature meaty maitake mushrooms, kimchi, onions, and radish, offering a sophisticated and artisanal take on street food that appeals to vegetarians and pescatarians alike.
• Grilled Shrimp
  Grilled ShrimpConsistently cited in recent 2026 Reddit food discussions as one of the best seafood bites in the city. The shrimp are perfectly charred and seasoned with a secret blend of spices, representing the best of the area's vibrant Hispanic seafood offerings.

Trip guide

• About New York
  About New YorkHell's Kitchen, also designated as Clinton, is a Manhattan neighborhood bounded by 34th Street, 59th Street, Eighth Avenue, and the Hudson River. Historically, the area functioned as a hub for industrial and waterfront activity, inhabited by working-class German and Irish immigrant populations in the 19th century.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Hell’s Kitchen is during the shoulder seasons of May to June or September to October, when the weather is mild and ideal for walking between the neighborhood's famous outdoor eateries. Summer can be uncomfortably humid and crowded, while winter offers lower hotel rates but freezing temperatures.
• Getting around
  Getting around New York

  • NYC Subway Access the neighborhood via the A, C, and E lines at the 42nd St-Port Authority or 50th St stations along 8th Avenue. The N, R, and W lines also serve the eastern edge at 49th St.
  • MTA Bus Utilize north-south routes like the M11 (on 9th and 10th Avenues) or M12 (on 11th and 12th Avenues) for local travel. Crosstown buses such as the M42 and M50 run along 42nd and 50th Streets.
  • Walking and Biking Hell's Kitchen is highly walkable with a grid layout; most destinations are within a 15-minute walk of Penn Station or Port Authority. Protected bike lanes on 8th and 9th Avenues.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Walk to the right on crowded sidewalks and pull over to the side if you need to stop to check directions or take photos.
  • Expect to tip between 18% and 22% at sit-down restaurants, as this is the standard social etiquette for service in the neighborhood.
  • Use the A, C, or E subway lines at the 42nd Street–Port Authority station for the most direct public transit access to the area.
• What’s new
  What’s new in New York

  • The opening of Sama 'Za, a new pizza concept on 9th Avenue that channels nostalgic 1990s slice-joint vibes.
  • The 2026 Ninth Avenue International Food Festival, showcasing neighborhood mainstays like Empanada Mama and Poseidon Bakery.