New York City's Most Iconic Foods-and Where to Get Them

"Adulating fans come and go, and lines around the block aren't necessarily indicative of staying power. Given the city's vast culinary scene, memorable bites can also be found on most streets. It's somewhere in the combination of these things-great taste, high popularity, and the ability to maintain both of over time-that we consider worthy of icon status. There are some dishes that simply define New York, and punctuate every day life for locals while also dominating the must-see lists of Big Apple visitors."

"Our roster considers a vast spectrum of dishes ranging from the porterhouse steak from Peter Luger, which symbolizes the platonic ideal of a New York City steakhouse, to fresh-off-the-griddle bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches, from whichever bodega is closest when you need it most. The city's most memorable bites are unveiled from silver cloche and crinkled tin foil alike, some requiring reservations months in advance and others ordered on a whim in the dead of night."

"Near the underway of the Williamsburg Bridge, Peter Luger is a long-time steakhouse known and loved deeply by NYC locals and visitors alike. Somehow, even after all the hype and all the years, it still feels like a New York essential: With white tablecloths and spot-on waiters who've seen it all-it's no secret that the iconic joint offers up some of"

Iconic New York foods are defined by great taste, widespread popularity, and the capacity to sustain both over time. Memorable bites appear across the city, from celebrated steakhouses to neighborhood bodegas. The roster spans porterhouse steak at Peter Luger to fresh-off-the-griddle bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches. Dishes are presented from silver cloche and crinkled tin foil alike, with some requiring months-long reservations and others available on a late-night whim. Fame can stem from silver-screen exposure or word-of-mouth. The Peter Luger porterhouse exemplifies the classic New York steakhouse with white tablecloths, experienced waitstaff, and deep local affection.

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