New York, New York
I took my first solo trip to ‘the big apple’ a few weeks ago to meet a friend on secondment and was blown away by this city. Not only due to the vast skyscrapers juxtaposed by the beautiful residential areas and tranquil water, but also down to the fact that New York is the perfect place to visit for a foodie like me. Carry on reading for my top picks!
Of course you have to tick off Times Square, right? So, on my first day I did just that and happened to stumble across Pick a Bagel which was definitely worth the visit. A New York Bagel is a must have of course. I tried a classic bagel with sundried tomato cream cheese – simple but delicious and the portions were HUGE. Good fuel for a day of 20k steps.
Alongside bagels, New York is renowned for great pizza. I visited a classic ‘dive bar’ in Soho town which allowed you to order pizza from a pizzeria nearby called Lombardi’s. This opened in 1905 as the first pizzeria in America – so you’d assume it was going to be good. The ‘Original’ pizza was incredible – smoky-crusted coal oven baked pizza, topped with tomato, fresh mozzarella and basil. New York does simple and classic flavours so well.
Tacocina Mexican, Williamsburg
Whilst in Williamsburg I stopped at a Mexican restaurant on the waterfront. The outdoor venue made for a great spot on a summer’s day – a vibrant and colourful setting with delicious food. I shared the Nachos with my friend and they were topped with Queso Blanco, Lime Crema, Chipotle, Pico De Gallo, Jalapeño and Cilantro. Full of flavour and great paired with a spicy marg.
You have to treat yourself to breakfast from Almondine if you’re ever in Dumbo. Serving classic French breads & pastries, everything is award worthy. The Almond croissant is the best I have EVER tried.
Vanessa’s Dumpling House, Upper East Side
After renting an e-bike to cycle around Central Park I stopped at Vanessa’s Dumpling House for lunch to try New York’s favourite Chinese dumplings. If you can’t choose which flavour dumpling, they let you choose the selection board! Quick, delicious and great value for money, too!
We visited Shoo Shoo for dinner on my last night and I was blown away by the food here. A contemporary take on Mediterranean cuisine with a menu of shareable plates to allow you to try lots of different dishes – my favourite way to eat out. I had the grilled Branzino fish (popular on New York menus), with potatoes purée, green beans and pine nuts, alongside a Greek salad and chicken shawarma with caramelized onions, tahini, tatbila and pita. If you’re looking for one place to go all out, it needs to be here.
I had a great time eating my way around New York, but if you think I missed a classic please do get in touch on socials with your recommendations @jellybeanagency
You never know I may be heading back there and will need some more inspiration!