New York City, a global hub of culture and innovation, is also a celebrated paradise for food lovers. Often lauded for its diverse and high-quality culinary scene, deciding where to eat in NYC can be both exciting and overwhelming. While trends and restaurant ownerships may shift, the core of New York’s food identity remains constant: a vibrant mix of international flavors and classic American staples. Instead of just listing addresses, we want to share some exceptional food experiences from our recent trip that truly represent some of the Best Food In Nyc.
Discovering Authentic Italian Flavors at Mercato Trattoria
Located in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen at 352 West 39th Street, New York, Mercato Trattoria stands out as a genuine gem. Our first visit in 2017 was a fortunate accident, a stumble upon culinary gold after a long day at the New York Times Travel Show. Exhausted and seeking refuge near our hotel, we found Mercato, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience. Returning this year, our high expectations were not only met but exceeded.
Mercato Trattoria offers a truly authentic Italian dining experience. The menu immediately signals its roots, evoking memories of dining in Italy itself. Chef Fabio Camardi, the owner, has successfully recreated the family-style cuisine of his hometown, Taranto in Southern Italy. This dedication to authenticity is palpable in every dish.
Our meal began with a bottle of Chianti, setting the perfect tone for the Italian feast to come. We ordered the house-made Eggplant Caponata, a delightful appetizer bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Following this, we shared the Rocket salad, a vibrant mix of arugula, fresh Parmigiano Reggiano shavings, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze – a simple yet elegant dish highlighting fresh, quality ingredients.
For the main courses, the Rigatoni with eggplant was an excellent choice, perfectly al dente pasta combined with rich and flavorful eggplant. Angelo opted for the Linguine with Pesce de Mare, a seafood pasta dish featuring incredibly fresh and delicious seafood. Despite feeling quite full, the sight of fried pettole (dough balls) with strawberry sauce being served to a neighboring table was too tempting to resist. These warm, sweet dough balls were the ideal finale to an already exceptional meal, proving that Mercato Trattoria is a must-visit for anyone seeking some of the best food in NYC, specifically authentic Italian cuisine.
[Imagine an image of Eggplant Caponata here with alt=”Delicious Eggplant Caponata appetizer at Mercato Trattoria, a top Italian restaurant in NYC’s Hell’s Kitchen. Experience authentic Italian cuisine in New York City.”]
Taco Heaven Found at Los Tacos No. 1 in Chelsea Market
While Mercato offered a taste of Italy, our quest for the best food in NYC also led us to Chelsea Market, a vibrant indoor marketplace brimming with diverse food vendors. Among the many tempting options, Los Tacos No. 1 at Chelsea Market, 75 9th Ave, New York stood out, drawing us in with its reputation for authentic Mexican tacos.
Originating from Tijuana and Southern California, Los Tacos No. 1 aims to bring the true taste of Mexican tacos to New York City. They focus on simple, traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, which is evident from the first bite. The line of eager customers is a testament to their popularity and quality.
We sampled a variety of tacos, starting with the classic Carne Asada. The grilled beef was flavorful and tender, perfectly complemented by fresh cilantro and onions on a soft corn tortilla. Next, we tried the Adobada, marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, shaved directly onto the tortilla. The combination of smoky, slightly spicy pork with the fresh toppings was simply divine. The Pollo (chicken) taco was equally impressive, featuring juicy, well-seasoned chicken. For a vegetarian option, the Nopal (cactus) taco was a surprisingly flavorful and texturally interesting choice.
Each taco at Los Tacos No. 1 is a celebration of fresh, authentic Mexican flavors. The simplicity of the ingredients and the focus on quality make these tacos stand out. Located in the bustling Chelsea Market, it’s the perfect spot to grab a quick, incredibly satisfying, and undeniably some of the best food in NYC.
[Imagine an image of various tacos from Los Tacos No. 1 here with alt=”Selection of authentic Mexican tacos including Carne Asada, Adobada, and Pollo from Los Tacos No. 1 in Chelsea Market, NYC. Experience the best tacos in New York City.”]
Conclusion: NYC – A Food Lover’s Paradise
Our recent culinary experiences in New York City, from the authentic Italian flavors of Mercato Trattoria in Hell’s Kitchen to the mouth-watering tacos of Los Tacos No. 1 in Chelsea Market, only scratched the surface of the city’s vast food scene. These two spots, however, represent the diversity and quality that define the best food in NYC. Whether you’re seeking a comforting Italian meal or craving authentic Mexican street food, New York City offers a culinary adventure for every palate. Explore beyond the usual tourist traps and discover your own list of best food in NYC – your taste buds will thank you.
