The New York City food scene is bustling with impossible-to-get reservations, exclusive 8-seat sushi counters, and exorbitant amounts of truffle.
But hidden in the decadence lies a sense of simplicity: the quintessential things that make New York undeniably New York. Greasy slices of pizza, hotdogs smothered in sauerkraut and relish, and roasted chestnuts fresh out of the oven.
See Also: The 6 Best Halal Restaurants In NYC
And while culture permeates through every avenue and crossroad, there’s nothing that screams New York City more than the food trucks parked on every corner. We searched NYC for the most mouthwatering street food from east to west. Here are the results.
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Coined as a “leader in the New York food truck scene,” Gorilla Cheese is the mecca of all things greasy and delicious. As evident in the name, this restaurant-on-wheels specializes in everybody’s favorite comfort food: grilled cheese. Diners can choose from a wide variety of cheeses, ranging from cheddar to smoked mozzarella, as well as a plethora of dipping sauces, and creative additions like barbecue pulled pork, sauteed jalapenos, and more! If you’re feeling adventurous, indulge in one of their specialty sammies, such as the triple cream brie with prosciutto and strawberry preserves, or the Philly cheesesteak melt topped with caramelized onions and marinara.
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48 St. and Park Ave.
It’s safe to say that Jerk Pan serves some of the most delicious, and authentic, Jamaican food in all of Manhattan. While everything on the menu is melt-in-your-mouth delicious, the spicy jerk chicken is a party-in-your-mouth you’ll never want to end. Chopped with vibrant Jamaican seasoning, this classic dish is executed with perfection, and then some. Conveniently located next to J.P. Morgan, you may even meet your husband over a side of fried plantains and macaroni salad.
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263 Canal St. B
Warm fried dough topped with condensed milk and melted chocolate? Please, say less. A Chinatown staple for as long as we can remember, Ling’s has been an integral part of the New York City street food scene since its inception. Somewhat of a pancake-waffle hybrid, these intoxicatingly sweet treats are nothing short of delicious. Parked in the famed Canal Street market, visitors can snack on these pillowy puffs while perusing the rest of the vendors.
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Multiple locations / Website
When you think of food trucks, you automatically think of juicy beef gyro, piping-hot pita bread, and the crispiest falafel you ever did eat. Industry giants from the start, Halal Guys is synonymous with the buzzing, and ever-so-popular food truck scene. Known as the pioneers of American Halal food, Halal Guys has taken New York City by storm with its famous platters, sandwiches, and spreads. And let's take a moment of silence for the crispy Baklava. The chokehold this dessert has on us is indescribable, even for a writer.
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Multiple locations / Website
Californians may make fun of New York’s Mexican food, but have they ever tried Los Tacos? We didn’t think so. With the goal of bringing authentic Mexican food to the East Coast, Los Tacos is seriously elevating our taco game. Focused on simplicity, the menu is relatively straightforward, with options ranging from grilled steak tacos, marinated pork quesadillas, and seriously addictive chips and guacamole. If you’re not afraid to step out of your comfort zone, try the grilled cactus. It sounds scary, but we promise it will take your breath away.
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245 Park Ave. / Website
You know that famous sandwich shop in Florence everybody posts “non-filtered” photos from? Well, Diso’s is the slightly-less-basic American version. And by the way, what are the requirements to get into a sandwich society? We are very interested in a membership that involves carbs. Although there are tons of options to choose from, our favorites are the Lefty Louie made with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, arugula, Parmigiano Reggiano, and glazed balsamic dressing, and the Carmine with breaded chicken cutlet, mortadella, broccoli rabe, fresh mozzarella, and homemade marinara. Plus, there are plenty of vegetarian options sure to impress even the biggest of meat eaters!
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1017 Cortelyou Road, Brooklyn / Website
Characterized as New York’s “No. 1 burger truck and luncheonette,” there’s no better to stuff your face than Hard Time Sundaes. It would be a crime to come here without getting Andrew’s Signature burger. Toeing the line between simplicity and innovation, this jaw-dropping cheeseburger is topped with sweet caramelized onions and thick, salty bacon. And since sundae is in the name, you’re obligated to get a black & white shack for ol’ time's sake. We’re salivating just thinking about it.
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Multiple locations / Website
Who better to master the art of Greek street food than the Souvlaki king himself? The right answer is nobody. Famous for its drool-worthy chicken gyro pita sandwich, hand-skewered pork on a stick, and our personal favorite, the hand-cut fries cooked in Extra Virgin olive oil and topped with salt and oregano, this city-renowned establishment can do no wrong. Can we all agree there’s something about Souvlaki on a stick that just hits different? And don’t forget to get a side (or two) of the homemade King Sauce dip. That stuff is addictive.
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Multiple locations / Website
Let the sweet scent from these legendary waffles draw you in. In Belgium, “de Dinges” is slang for “yummy toppings.” From dulce de leche to bananas to maple and bacon, it’s easy to taste why. In addition to the sweet and savory toppings, you can make it a double-decker for a waffle worth the journey.
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71st Ave & Queens Blvd., Queens / 646.226.7555
Jubao Express has achieved cult status for a reason. The waffle truck is perfect for a quick stop for lunch if you want Vietnamese sandwiches, teriyaki, General Tso’s chicken and other classics.
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50 Washington Square S, / 646.343.4089 / Website
New Yorkers love waiting in line but here's one that's actually worth the wait. At NY Dosas, stroll through Washington Square Park before getting a delicious crepe with a cup of lentil soup and a side of coconut chutney. There's no way you won't learn the name of this cart by heart.
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1221 6th Ave. / 917.497.2317/ Website
For years, New Yorkers have flocked to this halal food truck. It doesn’t matter if you choose lamb over rice or a falafel sandwich when everything is flavorful, filling and famous.
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77-05 Roosevelt Ave., Queens / Website
Although it has since expanded to sit-down locations, the Birria-Landia food truck is the original. Come to the Jackson Heights location to see why the tacos consistently make people's lists for the best bites in NYC and are guaranteed to make your mouth water.
Photography by: Maskot . / Getty Images
