New York City Foodie Weekend
New York City is one of those places that no matter how many times you’ve been (or even if you live there) you can never see it all. It is constantly changing and there is so much to see it can be overwhelming, but damn is it a fun place to be.
We’ve been living on the east coast for a year now and made several trips into the city and still haven’t even made a dent in our NYC bucket list. Or at least not in my foodie list 🙂
New York City is a foodie paradise – the top-notch restaurants, the star chefs, killer street food, artisan shops, cooking stores, museums, and the list goes on and on. So where do you begin if you’ve only got one weekend to make all your foodie dreams come true?
Note: If you are just eating for the insta and have no real interest in food this list isn’t for you.
Where to Eat
This bakery is home to the famous and delicious Cronut, but it is about so much more. Be prepared to wait in line (especially on the weekend) and if you are going in chilly weather wrap up because the line forms outside. You really can’t go wrong with anything you get here, but my favorites are the madeleines, frozen s’mores, and anything from their limited edition collections.
Pizza and NYC go hand in hand and there is certainly no shortage of pizzerias across the city, but this one is special. Scarr Pimental owns and operates this unassuming joint and finds time to mill his own flour every single day. That time and care are what make these pies so delicious.
NYC doesn’t want for good Jewish delis, but this is one of the mainstays and for good reason. Opened in 1914, this historic eatery remains in the family and the long lines prove that it will stay that way for quite a while to come. Don’t be deterred by the wait, it is well worth it. Try the bagels and the smoked fish and grab some halvah to go.
What list of NYC restaurants would be complete without a Danny Meyer’s place? This cafe launched it all back in 1985 and it still lives up to those original high standards. You can’t really go wrong with any entree on the menu, but whatever you do don’t skip the bar nuts.
If you want to be transported to Italy by plate or wine glass this is the place to do it. These low-key restaurants remind me of many of the long-standing places we dined in Florence and Rome and I could eat here every day. The fresh pasta and the imported wine will have you lingering for hours.
Where to Visit
The Big Apple has seen a boom in food halls over the past decade, but this is still one of the best. Packed with artisans and merchants you won’t leave hungry or empty-handed. Stop at Los Tacos No 1 for a quick bite or Big Mozz for mozzarella sticks that are to die for. Check out the fun kitchen supplies at Bowery Kitchen Supply and find unique spice blends at Spices and Tease.
If you enjoy learning about the crossroads of food, history and culture this museum is for you. The Museum of Food and Drink is hoping to grow into a leading educational space with the mission “to inspire curiosity about food, what it means, and how it connects with the world around us.” Past exhibits have included a working 1930s-era cereal puffing gun, an exploration of how flavors are created, and the birth and growth of Chinese restaurants in America. Check the website for the most up-to-date exhibit information.
If you love artisan chocolate you don’t want to miss a visit to Raaka Chocolate Factory. See how chocolate goes from bean to bar on the factory tour or participate in a Bean-to-Bar Making class to make your own artisan bar.
Where to Shop
This independent bookstore is a cook’s daydream. Packed with out-of-print and antique cookbooks as well as dishes and cookery you could spend hours perusing the collection.
Established in 1944, this shop started with a focus on Turkish and Middle Eastern products but has expanded into products from across the globe. If you haven’t been able to find a spice or ingredient in other places you will almost certainly be able to find it here. Wander the aisles to take in all the spices and be inspired to create dishes from around the world.
This New York institution is worth a visit even if you only wander the aisles. The first floor is packed with products from across the globe and items made right in store. Pick up all the fixings for a picnic and make your way to Central Park for a leisurely meal. Before you do that though make sure you head upstairs to check out all the kitchen gear.
A few spots for when you need to break out of your food coma:
One of the best museums I’ve ever visited, this completely immersive experience will take you several hours. Your visit will show you all the different sides of this monumental day and provide a view of not just that day, but how it has affected life since. The visual and audio exhibits can leave visitors emotional so be prepared.
NYC is blessed with some amazing green spaces including this innovative park. Built on an elevated rail line, the park is an example of using sustainable practices to revitalize a space for public use. It features gorgeous gardens, art, open space to breath, and a different view of this bustling city.
New York City is really a foodie’s city. You could spend your whole life living there and still never get to all the amazing eateries, shops, and sites. Hopefully, this list will at least get you started for one weekend.
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