New York must-tries: 5 must-taste specialties!
New York is THE city that buzzes with energy, like a heart beating 24 hours a day. In this concrete jungle, where skyscrapers and food trucks coexist, cuisine is king. New York is like a patchwork of flavors: each neighborhood tells a story, each bite a journey. How about a few emblematic dishes? Those that, quite literally, thrill the taste buds of this inimitable city:)
1. The Bagel, or a taste for authenticity
If you've ever smelled a fresh bagel, you know: nothing beats that irresistible aroma. But where does it come from? Ashkenazi Jewish immigrants, a good century ago. But not just any bagel: the New York-style bagel. It's first immersed in boiling water, then browned in the oven, giving it that soft yet crisp texture. A real treat!
The winning combo? Cream cheese and smoked salmon. Classic, you say? Yes, but unbeatable! Stop by Russ & Daughters, in the heart of the Lower East Side: an institution! You'll see, a bagel in New York is like a piece of history in your hand.
2. Pizza, thin and infinitely crispy
Ah, New York pizza! A crunchy tribute to the city's Italian roots. You could say it's a simple pizza... but that would be an insult to every pizzaiolo in the Big Apple. Here, the dough is thin, but not too thin; the slice is huge, because "bigger is better". And why bother with cutlery? In New York, you eat it with your fingers, folding the slice in half.
Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village and Di Fara in Brooklyn are places where the line is (very) long, but the wait is well worth it. And believe us, after one bite of this pizza, you'll never look at pizza the same way again!
3. Cheesecake: the creamy temptation
Soft, creamy, slightly tart... New York cheesecake is more than a dessert, it's a promise of gourmet ecstasy. Known for its dense texture thanks to cream cheese, this cake symbolizes American generosity. And if you want to get close to perfection, go to Junior's in Brooklyn. This cheesecake has character, and one small slice is enough to fill your heart (and belly!) with happiness.
Speaking of generosity, New York cheesecake is a fine illustration of the "big everything" culture of the United States. It's often said that "enough is enough", but here, we're back for more!
4. The Hot Dog: New York in portable version
Another must: the hot dog! Have you seen those little carts all along 5th Avenue? They sell hot dogs, piping-hot, flavored and served with a simple bun. It's the ultimate street snack, fast and efficient. The recipe? Sausage, soft bread, mustard or ketchup (or both!), and, if you feel like it, sauerkraut or caramelized onions.
And if you're ever in Coney Island, don't miss Nathan's Famous. It's where it all began! A hot dog at Nathan's is a nod to the America of yesteryear.
5. Pastrami on Rye: The smoked delight
The pastrami on rye is the soul of the New York deli. This sandwich, which originated in Jewish neighborhoods, is an explosion of flavors: thin slices of smoked pastrami, rye bread, mustard, and that's it! When it's well done, you don't need anything else. Each bite is a pure pleasure, a perfect balance between the salty meat and the softness of the bread.
The legendary address? Katz's Delicatessen, in existence since 1888! This sandwich is talked about in the movies, and eaten as a rite of passage. And if you remember Quand Harry rencontre Sally, you'll know why...
New York: A mixed plate
And there you have it, five dishes that, each in their own way, sum up the essence of New York: a city where ancient meets modern, where traditions are reinvented. The culinary specialties here are not just food, but symbols. To eat a bagel, bite into a slice of pizza, savor a cheesecake... is to taste a part of this fascinating city, where every street corner tells a story!
So, are you ready for a gourmet journey?