New York City is a haven for food lovers and home to some of the best food in the country. From unique cuisines to classic dishes, you can explore many different types of food in the city. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hole-in-the-wall food spots, NYC has something for everyone.
Let’s dive into some of the must-try foods you can experience in New York City.
Iconic NYC Dishes and the Best Places to Try Them
New York City is filled with iconic dishes that every food lover must try. From pizza to bagels, here are some must-try dishes and the best places to sample them:
Pizza New York-style pizza is an icon of the city. It’s characterized by its thin, crispy crust and gooey mozzarella cheese. For a classic slice, try Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village or Di Fara Pizza in Midwood.
Bagels New York-style bagels are known for their chewy texture and unique flavor. Head to Russ & Daughters on the Lower East Side for a classic New York bagel with smoked salmon and cream cheese.
Pastrami on rye Katz’s Deli on the Lower East Side is famous for its pastrami on rye. This classic sandwich features smoked beef brisket, mustard, and fresh rye bread.
Cheesecake Junior’s in Brooklyn is legendary for its cheesecake. This creamy dessert comes in various flavors, including classic, chocolate swirl, and strawberry.
Pro-tip: To avoid long lines, visit these spots during off-hours or weekdays.
Food-Themed Walking Tours of NYC Neighborhoods
Food-themed walking tours are a great way to explore New York’s vibrant food scene while learning about the city’s rich history and diverse cultural influences. LookyTasty’s Adventures in Food New York City Chicago is one such tour that offers a unique culinary journey through the city’s most delicious neighborhoods.
With a focus on authentic and ethnic cuisine, the tour will take you through hidden gems and local favorites, indulging in a variety of flavors and textures. From crispy falafel to creamy gelato, you’ll get to taste the best of what each neighborhood has to offer.
The tour is a perfect option for foodies and history buffs alike, as you’ll not only get to enjoy mouth-watering bites, but also learn about the boroughs’ historical landmarks and vibrant communities.
The tour emphasizes supporting small local businesses and promoting sustainable food practices, making it an ethical and memorable experience.
Pro tip: Come hungry and bring comfortable shoes as you’ll walk a few miles!
Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Restaurants Worth the Visit
New York City is packed with incredible restaurants, but for a unique and hidden dining experience, venture off-the-beaten-path to these lesser-known gems.
Beebe’s: Beebe’s is in Long Island City and offers an elevated diner-style menu with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s retro theme and whimsical décor create a charming atmosphere for your meal.
Bollywood Theater: Bollywood Theater in Jackson Heights serves authentic Indian street food in a colorful and vibrant setting. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, including chaat, dosa, and thali plates.
Em Vietnamese: Located in Brooklyn, Em Vietnamese offers an extensive traditional and modern Vietnamese cuisine menu. The restaurant’s cozy and intimate ambiance, with colorful lanterns, is perfect for a romantic date night or cozy dinner with friends.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for a unique and memorable dining experience in New York City, don’t be afraid to venture off-the-beaten-path and explore the lesser-known restaurants. You never know what hidden gems you may discover!
Chicago’s Food Must-Try’s
LookyTasty Adventures in Food presents you the top must-try food spots in Chicago. So whether you’re a foodie looking for the latest food trends, a gourmet searching for the best restaurants, or a traveler wishing to sample the best of the Windy City, there are plenty of exciting dishes to try.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the top food hotspots and what they have to offer.
Iconic Chicago Foods and Where to Find Them
Chicago is known for its iconic foods deeply rooted in history and culture. Here are some must-try foods and where to find them:
Food Where to Find It
Chicago-style deep-dish pizza – Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s
Chicago-style hot dog – Portillo’s or Superdawg Drive-In
Italian beef sandwich – Al’s Beef or Mr. Beef
Garrett’s popcorn – Garrett Popcorn Shops
Rainbow cone – Original Rainbow Cone
These are just a few foods that make up Chicago’s rich culinary landscape. Don’t forget to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods for even more delicious finds.
Chicago-Style Pizza: A Guide to the Best Pies in town
Chicago-style pizza is an American invention and the most beloved food in Chicago. Here’s a guide to the best pies in town for you to discover.
There are two main styles of Chicago-style pizzas:
Deep-dish pizza: This pizza is known for its thick crust and towering layers of cheese, toppings, and tomato sauce. Some popular deep-dish pizza joints in Chicago include Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, and Gino’s East.
Thin-crust pizza: This pizza features a cracker-like crust and a generous layer of toppings. Some popular thin-crust pizza joints in Chicago include Vito & Nick’s, Pizzeria Uno, and Pequod’s Pizza.
Chicago-style pizza is a must-try food when visiting the city, and you won’t regret indulging in this culinary masterpiece.
Exploring Chicago’s Neighborhood Food Scenes
Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods offer a vast array of food scenes that present a unique taste of the city’s culinary culture. Here are some of Chicago’s famous must-try foods and the neighborhoods that feature them, enabling you to eat through “LookyTasty Adventures in Food New York City Chicago.”
Garretts Popcorn: This famous popcorn brand with its classic caramel-crisp flavor and cheese popcorn can be found in the River North neighborhood and several other Chicago locations.
Chicago-style Pizza: Head out to Chicago’s River North and West Loop neighborhoods to indulge in Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza.
Maxwell Street Polish and Chicago-style hot dogs can be found in the West loop, specifically in Jim’s Original. Italian Beef Sandwich: Mouth-watering Italian beef sandwiches dripping with flavor from the juicy beef, sweet peppers, and zesty Giardiniera can be found in the Little Italy & University Village neighborhoods at Al’s Beef.
With food tours available for each cuisine, you can taste while learning about the city’s vibrant history and culture.
Pro-tip: Don’t forget to wear your stretch pants!
National Foodie Events in New York City and Chicago
The foodie scene in both New York City and Chicago is vibrant and bustling. So whether you’re looking for a unique dining experience or a once-in-a-lifetime taste-testing tour, there are plenty of national foodie events and activities to explore.
Let’s take a look at some of the great foodie events taking place in both of these dynamic cities.
Food Festivals: Celebrating Culture and Flavor
Food festivals are the perfect way to celebrate culture and flavor, and New York City and Chicago are the best places to explore the diverse cuisine of America.
In New York City, you can indulge in the Annual New York City Wine & Food Festival, where celebrity chefs showcase their culinary skills, or the Taste of Times Square, which features some of the most popular restaurants in the area.
In Chicago, the Taste of Chicago is a must-visit event, offering a range of cuisines from all over the city. You can also attend the Chicago Gourmet, featuring food demonstrations, wine tastings, and interactive seminars by renowned chefs.
LookyTasty Adventures in Food is an excellent platform to explore and sample food from the best vendors in New York City and Chicago. From pizza tours to dessert safaris, LookyTasty has it all covered.
Embrace your inner foodie and join in the celebration of culture and flavor at the next food festival in your city.
Farmers Markets: A Great Way to Taste Local Produce
Farmers markets are an excellent way to sample locally grown produce and support small-scale farmers. These markets offer a diverse range of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and artisanal products, and provide an opportunity to learn about local food production and seasonal eating.
National culinary events such as “Eat Your Way Through LookyTasty Adventures in Food New York City Chicago” showcase the best local food culture, including farm-to-table dining and artisanal food production.
Attending farmers markets and culinary events is a great way to gain an appreciation for the flavors and traditions of different regions, and support sustainable and ethical food practices. So, to taste the best local produce, check out your nearest farmers market or join a culinary event in your area!
Restaurant Weeks: An Excuse to Try Something New
Restaurant weeks are a perfect opportunity for foodies to try new and exciting dishes from various cuisines at discounted prices. With national foodie events in New York City and Chicago, you can indulge in a feast that will tantalize your taste buds! Some popular foodie events include BrunchCon, the New York City Wine and Food Festival, and Chicago Gourmet.
LookyTasty Adventures in Food offers a wide range of tours and events to help you explore these events and experience the best dishes and beverages.
Whether you prefer classic Italian dishes, exotic fusion cuisine, or creative cocktails, there’s something for everyone during these foodie expeditions. So don’t miss out on the chance to savor delicious food while mingling with fellow food lovers.
Pro Tip: List the events and restaurants you want to visit in advance, and book your tickets early to avoid missing out on the best deals.
Healthy Eating Options in NYC and Chicago
Plenty of healthy eating options exist in the big cities of New York City and Chicago. Eating your way through LookyTasty Adventures in Food can be an adventure as many unique, healthy options exist. From vegan restaurants to farm-to-table juice bars, let’s explore the best healthy options these two bustling cities offer.
The Best Juice Bars and Health-Food Stores
If you’re looking for healthy eating options in NYC and Chicago, the best juice bars and health-food stores can be a great place to start. These establishments offer delicious and nutritious food and drink options aimed at helping you achieve your wellness goals. Here are some of the best options to consider:
NYC: Chicago:
1. Juice Generation: Offering a range of fresh juices and smoothies, Juice Generation has become a go-to spot for health-conscious New Yorkers. 1. Real Good Juice Co.: This local chain specializes in cold-pressed juices and smoothies made from locally-sourced, organic ingredients.
2. The Butcher’s Daughter: Known for its plant-based menu and fresh-squeezed juices, The Butcher’s Daughter is a must-visit for anyone interested in healthy eating. 2. Karyn’s Fresh Corner: This vegan cafe serves a range of healthy options, including fresh juices, smoothies, and bowls.
3. Whole Foods Market: With several locations throughout the city, Whole Foods Market is a great place to find healthy grocery options and grab a quick bite to eat. 3. Nature’s Market: Offering a variety of organic and natural foods, supplements, and skincare products, Nature’s Market is a one-stop-shop for all your health-food needs.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to ask for recommendations when visiting a new juice bar or health-food store. The staff is often knowledgeable about the menu items and can help guide you towards the healthiest options.
Vegan and Vegetarian Dining: More Than Just Salad
There’s more to the menu regarding vegan and vegetarian dining than just salads. In cities like New York City and Chicago, you can find various healthy and delicious dining options to satisfy your cravings.
In New York City, popular vegan and vegetarian spots include By Chloe, which serves plant-based burgers, salads, and desserts, and Superiority Burger, which has a rotating menu of veggie burgers, sandwiches, and sides.
In Chicago, restaurants like Green Zebra offer a variety of vegetable-based dishes like charred broccoli and miso-glazed beets, and The Chicago Diner serves up vegan comfort food classics like burgers and milkshakes.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, plenty of options go beyond just salads.
Where to Find Organic and Local Produce
If you are looking for organic and local produce in NYC and Chicago, many options are available for healthy eating. Here are some places to start your search:
Farmer’s MarketsCommunity Supported Agriculture (CSA)Local Grocery StoresOnline Grocery Delivery Services
Farmer’s Markets offer a vast selection of fresh, locally grown, and organic produce. Markets such as the Union Square Greenmarket and the Green City Market in Chicago are open year-round, making it easy to buy fresh produce year-round. Join a CSA program to receive fresh, organic produce directly from local farmers. It’s a great way to support the local farming community and receive a weekly supply of fresh vegetables and fruits. Several local grocery stores throughout NYC and Chicago specialize in organic and locally sourced produce, including Mariano’s Fresh Market and Greenstar Co-op in Chicago and Westerly Natural Market and Brooklyn Kitchen in NYC. In addition, services like FreshDirect, Farmigo, or Green Bean Delivery bring locally sourced organic produce directly to your doorstep.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to look for seasonal produce for optimal flavor and freshness.
LookyTasty Adventures in Food New York City Chicago
For the culinary enthusiast looking for a unique experience, LookyTasty Adventures in Food New York City Chicago offers an immersive experience in two of America’s most vibrant cities. With a focus on seasonal and sustainable ingredients, you will explore the diverse cuisines in two of the nation’s most popular culinary destinations.
Let us look closer at the unique culinary experiences and attractions LookyTasty offers.
Cooking Classes: Learn to Cook Like a Pro
Cooking classes provide an excellent opportunity to learn new culinary skills and techniques from experienced chefs, allowing you to cook like a pro from home.
Classes are available in various cuisines, from Italian and French to Thai and Mexican. Some classes focus on kitchen skills like knife techniques, while others teach entire menus or cooking styles such as baking or grilling.
New York City and Chicago offer unique culinary experiences like Eat Your Way Through LookyTasty Adventures in Food, where you can learn about the local food scene while sampling delicious cuisine. These classes include food tours, cooking classes, and mixology experiences, allowing you to delve deep into the culinary culture of these vibrant cities.
Whether you are a beginner looking to develop basic kitchen skills or a seasoned home cook looking to learn new techniques and recipes, cooking classes are an enjoyable and educational way to improve your culinary prowess.
Pro Tip: When choosing a cooking class, consider your interests and skill level, and read reviews and testimonials from past students to find the right fit for you.
Immersive Dining: Dinner Takes Center Stage
Immersive Dining experiences are taking center stage in the culinary world, integrating food and entertainment in unique and memorable ways. Cities like NYC and Chicago offer a variety of breathtaking dining experiences that cater to a wide range of palates.
Experience Description
Dinner Party by Story – A 13-course meal served inside a themed interactive art exhibition that changes every few months.
LookyTasty Adventures in Food Tour – A walking tour that takes you through NYC or Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods to sample diverse global cuisines.
Alinea A restaurant that offers a multi-sensory, 16-to-18 course experience with each dish presented as a work of art.
These immersive dining experiences redefine how we dine out, making it an adventure worth experiencing. Treat your taste buds to something different, explore the culinary world in a whole new way!
Speakeasies and Mixology: Exploring the Cocktail Scene
Speakeasies and mixology are an integral aspect of the cocktail scene in New York City and Chicago, offering unique culinary experiences that are a must-try for food and drink enthusiasts alike. LookyTasty Adventures in Food offers curated tours that allow you to explore the best of these hidden bars and indulge in some of the best cocktails in the cities.
From the iconic Death & Co. in New York City, with its underground ambiance, expert mixologists and customized drinks, to the innovative mixology of Three Dots and a Dash in Chicago, a tiki-themed bar with exotic drinks and hidden rooms, LookyTasty Adventures in Food provides a unique culinary experience to explore speakeasies and mixology in both cities.
With LookyTasty Adventures in Food, you can discover other culinary delights, including artisanal chocolate and pizza tours in NYC, and an eclectic food tour of Chicago’s food neighborhoods. This experience is guaranteed to satisfy all your food and drink cravings!