NYC is one of my favorite cities, and after visiting several times, I’ve tried my fair share of viral food spots. Here’s a list of the ones I actually recommend, along with what to order at each—you won’t want to miss these!
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Sunday Morning NYC’s cinnamon rolls are a must-try viral bite—but definitely go early because they can sell out!
Sunday Morning - Viral Cinnamon Rolls
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I recommend checking out the NOMAD location—it's usually less crowded. Make sure to try the La Paradiso sandwich, you won’t regret it!
All'Antico Vinaio | Italian Sandwich Shop
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If you can only get one cookie while here, get the original Chocolate Chip Walnut, I tried a couple and this one was definitely the best one
Levain Bakery - Get the original chocolate chip walnut cookie!
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These tacos are super viral, and you might wonder if they’re worth the hype—but as someone born in Mexico, I can say they absolutely are! Totally worth every dime, and the line moves faster than you’d expect.
DON'T SKIP! Los Tacos No. 1 | Taquerias in New York City
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I can’t leave NYC without getting the banana pudding from Magnolia Bakery. I’ve tried some of their other desserts, but nothing beats the banana pudding in my opinion—it’s a must!
Banana Pudding | Magnolia Bakery
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The Crack Pie was delicious, but honestly, I found most of the other desserts a bit overhyped. The famous cereal milk ice cream, in particular, didn’t live up to expectations—no one in my group really enjoyed it.
Milk Bar: NYC's #1 Bakery Ships Desserts Nationwide
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2 Bros Pizza might not be super viral, but it’s perfect if you’re looking for a quick, tasty bite on a budget. The slices are delicious, and they offer plenty of flavor options.
2 Bros. Pizza - Great flavor for the price!
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We did a chinatown food tour and the only thing I would go back for would be Mei Lah Wah's Pineapple Pork Bun, it was delicious. It looks like there's a long line but If you go inside and pay cash they'll hand it over immediately.
Pineapple Pork Bun - Instagram (@meilaiwahcoffeeshop)
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At Katz’s Delicatessen, you can order a half-and-half sandwich—we did pastrami and brisket. The pastrami was definitely the star! I recommend going early; we went around 10 a.m. and avoided the crowds. By noon, the line was already stretching outside...
Katz's Delicatessen - Since 1888 - NYC's oldest deli
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Try the bulgogi buns—they’re absolutely amazing! We make sure to get them every time we visit Chelsea Market.
Chelsea Market - Mokbar
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They have unique asian-inspired ice cream flavors that are delicious
Unique asian-inspired ice cream flavors - Sundaes Best NYC
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I was pleasantly surprised by this burger—the bun was super soft and buttery, and the meat was perfectly seasoned. For just around $7, it was an amazing find and totally worth it!
Instagram (@7thstreetburgernyc)
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This spot went viral on TikTok for its vintage Coke, but unless you’re a die-hard Coke fan, it’s probably not worth waiting an hour in line for a Coke float. It’s super sweet and doesn’t really taste like the Coke we’re used to.
Lexington Candy Shop | NYC Luncheonette
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I love visiting Koreatown and checking out all the viral spots—Jongro Hot Dog is definitely a favorite! Their Korean hot dogs are super melty, crispy
Instagram (@jongroricehotdog)
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I’d been dying to visit Au Cheval, and it definitely lived up to the hype. They’re known for their burgers, but what really stood out to me was the thick-cut bacon—it was incredible!