Best Food in New York City: 5 Must-Try Street Spots

New York City Street Food Tour like You've Never Seen – A Chasing a Plate Guide

New York City is the ultimate playground for food lovers, and in this New York City street food tour by Chasing a Plate, Thomas & Sheena show you the city’s best eats from iconic American classics to rare hidden gems. Whether you’re craving bagels, tacos, pizza or Indonesian flavors, we’ve got the spots that locals swear by.

Best Bagel in New York City – Absolute Bagel

Start your culinary adventure at Absolute Bagel on Broadway. The shop’s loyal following isn’t hard to understand: freshly baked, boiled‑then‑baked rings topped with poppy and sesame seeds, a generous spread of lox (salt‑cured salmon) and bright red onion. Thomas and Sheena describe the texture as “out of this world”—crisp on top, chewy inside, with a subtle cream cheese finish that balances the saltiness perfectly.

Legendary Slice – Patsy’s Pizzeria

Next up is Patsy’s Pizzeria on 1st Avenue, where coal‑fired ovens create the quintessential New York slice. The thin base and classic toppings make it a must‑visit for pizza lovers looking for an authentic taste of the city.

Hidden Gems Worth Visiting – Al Pastor Tacos Cart

If you’re up late, the Al Pastor Tacos Cart on Roosevelt Avenue in Queens serves mouth‑watering tacos that keep locals coming back. The cart’s late‑night hours and fresh ingredients give a true feel for the city’s diverse street food scene.

Local Favorite – Antojitos Donafela

On the same stretch of Roosevelt Avenue, Antojitos Donafela offers Peruvian street fare, including beef heart anticuchos that are both spicy and tender. The cart’s simple setup belies the complex flavors packed into each bite.

Best Indonesian Food in New York City – Warung Selasa

Hidden inside an Indo Java grocery store on Queens Blvd is Warung Selasa, a pop‑up that delivers authentic Indonesian dishes. From nasi goreng to satay, this spot proves that even within a supermarket you can find culinary treasures.

Things to Do in New York City – Street Food Edition

• Explore diverse neighborhoods: Harlem, Queens, and the Lower East Side each bring their own flavor.
• Meet local food enthusiasts: Thomas & Sheena’s vlogger friends share insider tips on where to eat in NYC.
• Enjoy late‑night tacos: The Al Pastor cart is open until the early morning hours.

Pro Tips from the Vlog

• Arrive early for bagels: Absolute Bagel has a queue, so plan to get there before lunch rush.
• Try the everything bagel: It’s a crowd‑pleaser that showcases all the classic toppings.
• Bring cash: Some street carts only accept cash, especially in Queens.

Where to Eat in New York City – Quick Recap

Ready to Dive Into NYC’s Street Food Scene?

With this guide, you’ll know exactly where to find the best bagels, pizza slices, tacos, and more in New York City. Grab your camera, follow Thomas & Sheena’s footsteps, and discover the flavors that make this city unforgettable. Happy eating!