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What are the best food spots in New York City?

With a city as big and diverse as New York City, there’s no doubt there are tons of restaurants and food carts to eat from. But, what are the best spots to eat at? What do you need to try the most? It’s understandable if you’re struggling on where to go, especially if you’re in the city for a limited time. Therefore, we made a list of the best food spots in New York City, because you must try these at least once in your lifetime!

  • Joe’s Pizza
  • Xian’s Famous Foods
  • Halal Guys
  • Papaya King
  • Murray’s Cheese Bar

Joe’s Pizza

You can’t have a New York experience until you have a slice of the city’s famed thin crust pizza. What better way to get one than going to Joe’s Pizza? For just a few bucks, you can get a huge slice or two of arguably the city’s best pizza. It’s so good, you won’t even need to put any condiments on it (looking at you, ranch eaters)!

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A post shared by Joe’s Pizza NYC (@joespizzanyc) on Dec 10, 2017 at 9:20am PST


Xi’an Famous Foods

Xi’an Famous Foods is a must eat place to go to if you crave fragrant and flavorful food. At Xi’an Famous Foods, they serve almost 30 items that all range from under $4 to under $13. However, the spicy cumin lamb noodles have to be ordered every time you’re there. With tender lamb and fresh hand-pulled noodles, along with 30 different spices, this dish is an absolute explosion for your tastebuds.

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A post shared by Xi'an Famous Foods (@xianfoods) on Feb 3, 2019 at 12:14pm PST


Halal Guys

If you’re looking for a great food cart experience, venture no further than the Halal Guys! Hundreds of people line up all day for a chance to eat a combo (chicken & gyro) over rice with white sauce. However, keep in mind that you should go before or after the lunch rush, and to visit the cart located on 53rd Street and 6th Avenue. Despite multiple locations, this specific one is agreed as the best one to go to.

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A post shared by The Halal Guys (@thehalalguys) on May 19, 2020 at 8:02am PDT


Papaya King

If you’re a big fan of hot dogs and fruity drinks, then you should definitely stop by Papaya King during your trip. The restaurant has been around for almost 90 years, and they serve what some New Yorkers call the best hot dog in the city. For about $7, you can get 2 snappy and loaded hot dogs with a tropical drink. You would think that combination wouldn’t go so well, but it actually provides a balanced tasting experience.

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A post shared by Papaya King (@papayaking) on Aug 12, 2019 at 12:23pm PDT


Murray’s Cheese Bar

For those that are grilled cheese lovers, Murray’s Cheese Bar is the right place for you. Their signature grilled cheese, known as the “Murray’s Melt,” is generally agreed upon as the best grilled cheese sandwich in the city. With a secret blend of cheeses packed between two slices of bread and coated in butter, this sandwich is one of a kind. You absolutely cannot get this anywhere else.

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A post shared by Murray's Cheese (@murrayscheese) on Mar 2, 2020 at 3:01pm PST


Now that you know where the best food in New York City is, you can check them all out in person when you book a trip through our flights page. Seeking travel tips or inspiration? Take a look at our blog. For all your travel needs, visit BudgetAir.com!

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