New York City, often dubbed as the world's culinary capital, is a paradise for food lovers from all corners of the globe. With its diverse population and rich cultural tapestry, the city boasts an unparalleled array of culinary delights that reflect its status as a true melting pot of cultures. While quintessential New Yorker food like bagels and pizza are certainly worth trying, a plethora of unique and lesser-known dishes are waiting to be discovered. Join us on a gastronomic journey through the streets of NYC as we explore the 20 best things to eat in this vibrant metropolis.

1. Momos from Jackson Heights, Queens

Start your culinary adventure with a taste of Nepal in Jackson Heights, Queens. Momos, Nepalese dumplings filled with seasoned meat or vegetables and served with spicy dipping sauce, are beloved street food in this diverse neighbourhood.

2. Halal Cart Chicken and Rice

Every visit to New York City is complete with sampling the iconic halal cart chicken and rice. Served over a bed of fluffy rice with salad and a generous white and hot sauce drizzle, this flavorful dish is a staple of the city's street food scene.

3. Banh Mi from Chinatown

Venture into Manhattan's Chinatown for a taste of Vietnam with a classic banh mi sandwich. Packed with grilled meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, these Vietnamese sandwiches are a delicious fusion of flavours and textures.

4. Jerk Chicken from Crown Heights, Brooklyn

Head to Crown Heights, Brooklyn, for a taste of the Caribbean with juicy and flavorful jerk chicken. Marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection, this beloved dish is a must-try for spice lovers.

5. Dosas from Little India, Queens

Discover the flavours of South India in Little India, Queens, with a crispy and savoury dosa. Served with chutneys and sambar, these giant rice crepes are a popular street food snack perfect for breakfast or lunch.

6. Lox Bagel from Russ & Daughters

Indulge in a quintessential New York breakfast with a lox bagel from Russ & Daughters. Layered with silky smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and onions, this iconic dish is a true NYC classic.

7. Tacos Al Pastor from Sunset Park, Brooklyn

Transport your taste buds to Mexico with tacos al pastor from Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Made with marinated pork cooked on a spit and served with pineapple, onions, and cilantro, these tacos burst with bold and spicy flavours.

8. Ethiopian Platter from Harlem

Experience the vibrant flavours of Ethiopia with an Ethiopian platter from Harlem. Featuring injera (sourdough flatbread) served with various savoury stews and spicy sauces, this communal dining experience is as delicious as it is unique.

9. Cannoli from Little Italy

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a classic cannoli from Little Italy. These Italian pastries are filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips, then dusted with powdered sugar for the perfect finishing touch.

10. Arepas from Jackson Heights, Queens

Treat yourself to arepas from Jackson Heights, Queens, for a taste of Colombia and Venezuela. These savoury corn cakes are filled with delicious ingredients like cheese, meat, and avocado, making them satisfying and flavorful snacks.

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11. Pastrami Sandwich from Katz's Delicatessen

Sink your teeth into a mouthwatering pastrami sandwich from Katz's Delicatessen. Served on rye bread with mustard, this iconic NYC sandwich is piled high with thinly sliced, tender pastrami that's been smoked to perfection.

12. Ramen from East Village

Warm up on a chilly day with a steaming bowl of ramen from one of the many ramen shops in the East Village. Various flavours and styles suit every taste, from rich and creamy tonkotsu to spicy miso.

13. Pierogies from Greenpoint, Brooklyn

Sample the flavours of Eastern Europe with pierogies from Greenpoint, Brooklyn. These dumplings are filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, and other savoury ingredients, then boiled or fried to golden perfection.

14. Empanadas from Washington Heights

Explore the diverse flavours of Latin America with empanadas from Washington Heights. These savoury pastries are filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables, then baked or fried until crispy and golden brown.

15. Soup Dumplings from Flushing, Queens

Delight your taste buds with soup dumplings from Flushing, Queens. These delicate dumplings are filled with flavorful broth and tender meat, creating a delicious flavour explosion with every bite.

16. Chicken and Waffles from Harlem

Indulge in a classic soul food dish with chicken and waffles from Harlem. Crispy fried chicken is served atop fluffy waffles and drizzled with maple syrup for a sweet and savoury flavour combination that's simply irresistible.

17. Pupusas from Corona, Queens

Experience the flavours of El Salvador with pupusas from Corona, Queens. These thick corn tortillas are filled with cheese, beans, and meat, then grilled until crispy and served with tangy curtido and salsa.

18. Knishes from the Lower East Side

Satisfy your cravings for comfort food with knishes from the Lower East Side. These savoury pastries are filled with mashed potatoes, onions, and other flavorful ingredients, then baked or fried to crispy perfection.

19. Baklava from Astoria, Queens

Indulge in a sweet treat with baklava from Astoria, Queens. Layers of flaky phyllo dough are filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey syrup, creating a decadent and irresistible dessert.

20. Falafel from Greenwich Village

End your culinary journey with falafel from Greenwich Village. These crispy chickpea fritters are served in a warm pita with tahini sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles for a delicious and satisfying meal.

In conclusion, New York City's culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its population, offering food lovers endless flavours and experiences to savour. From traditional New Yorker favourites to international delights from around the globe, the city's culinary melting pot promises something for every palate and preference. So, embark on a culinary adventure through the streets of NYC and indulge in the 20 best things to eat in this gastronomic paradise.