Matt Peterson in Upper East Side, New York

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for New York

Must-try foods in New York

• Burrata Pizza Slice
  Burrata Pizza SliceWhile the classic 'plain slice' is eternal, 2026 belongs to the elevated Burrata Slice. Leading the charge is L’Industrie (now with locations in Little Italy, West Village, and Williamsburg), which uses a sourdough crust topped with high-quality burrata and basil. It is widely considered the city's current gold standard for a modern New York slice.
• Pastrami on Rye
  Pastrami on RyeAn untouchable icon, specifically from Katz’s Delicatessen. The hand-carved, thick-cut pastrami is cured for weeks and served with a simple smear of mustard. It remains the quintessential NYC 'cozy' meal, especially as the September chill begins to set in.
• Prawn Pot Pie
  Prawn Pot PieA breakout 'hidden gem' dish from Confidant, which recently relocated to Brooklyn Heights in early 2026. This dish features a dramatic, flaky, dome-shaped pastry head over a spicy, savory prawn stew. It has quickly become a 'must-order' for locals seeking comfort food with a fine-dining pedigree.
• Thai Tea Babka & Disco Fries
  Thai Tea Babka & Disco FriesFound at Thai Diner in NoMad, these dishes represent the best of NYC's creative fusion. The Thai tea-infused babka and the 'disco fries' (smothered in massaman curry instead of gravy) are legendary staples that continue to draw massive crowds in late 2026.
• Live-Fire Levantine Seafood
  Live-Fire Levantine SeafoodAt the newly opened Or'esh in SoHo (opened February 2026), wood-roasted seafood and vibrant vegetable-forward dishes are prepared on a custom live-fire grill. The smokiness of the live fire provides a warm, cozy atmosphere perfect for early autumn dining.
• Everything Bagel with Lox and Schmear
  Everything Bagel with Lox and SchmearThe ultimate New York breakfast. While institutions like Russ & Daughters and Ess-a-Bagel are classics, 2026 locals are championing Tompkins Square Bagels for their hand-rolled, kettle-boiled texture and high-quality smoked fish.

Trip guide

• About New York
  About New YorkNew York City, located at the mouth of the Hudson River, was established as a Dutch trading post called New Amsterdam in 1624. The settlement was renamed New York in 1664 following its seizure by the British. It served as the first capital of the United States from 1785 to 1790. In 1898, the modern city was formed through the consolidation of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
• When to go
  When to goThe best times to visit New York are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when temperatures are mild and the city’s parks are at their most scenic. While summer is hot and humid and winter can be freezing, the holiday season in December remains a popular peak period despite the cold. For lower prices and fewer crowds, aim for the off-peak months of January through early March, though you should be prepared for snow and biting winds.
• Getting around
  Getting around New York

  • Air Travel (JFK, LGA, EWR) Most visitors arrive via John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), or Newark Liberty (EWR) airports. From JFK.
  • MTA Subway and Bus System The most efficient way to get around is the 24/7 subway system, which costs $2.90 per ride. Use the OMNY contactless system to tap and pay with your phone or credit card at any turnstile. Buses are ideal for crosstown.
  • Walking and Taxis New York is a highly walkable city, especially within Manhattan's grid system. For longer distances or late-night travel, iconic yellow taxis can be hailed on the street.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Treat sidewalks like highways by staying to the right and stepping aside completely before stopping to check maps or take photos.
  • Always let passengers exit the subway car fully before attempting to board, and move toward the center of the car to keep doorways clear.
  • Expect to tip 18–20% at sit-down restaurants, as gratuity is a standard and essential part of service industry wages in the city.
• What’s new
  What’s new in New York

  • Centennial Feast of San Gennaro (September 17–27).
  • The Hip Hop Museum (Opening Fall 2026).
• NYC Tourism + Conventions↗
  NYC Tourism + ConventionsThe official destination marketing organization and visitor bureau for the five boroughs of New York City, including Manhattan's Upper East Side.