New York is a city famous for a lively food scene that never ceases to amaze locals and tourists alike with its diversity and quality. Whether it’s cool or sweltering, there’s nothing like treating yourself to a break at a food market or restaurant and satisfying your hunger along the way. Although it is well known that the food in this city is some of the best in the world, we recommend that you check it out in a market to experience New York culture and gastronomy up close.
Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market is located in the old factory where the first Oreo cookies were made. Today, the interior is home to aisles lined with stalls selling delicious food and artisan products. Everything is sold here, from cheese and freshly caught lobster to all kinds of fresh pasta. It is common to find businessmen from the area having a coffee together with tourists devouring some tacos. In fact, at Los Tacos No. 1 you can try the best in the city in a simple and cozy place. Don’t be deterred by the tail, as it moves quickly.
Address: 75 9th Avenue, New York, NY 10011 (United States)
Gansevoort Market
The Gansevoort market is five minutes from the Chelsea market, making it possible to visit both in the same afternoon. It is a large old industrial warehouse that houses stores specializing in various cuisines, from Korean chicken wings to American hamburgers, including huge cookies only suitable for those with a sweet tooth. This small space, which in the past functioned as a disco, is bathed in natural light thanks to a skylight decorated with intertwined branches and flowers. Just below is the seating area, with much more space than Chelsea Market. If you fancy a hearty meal, try the marrow burger at Burger, Inc. NYC or have an ají de gallina at Mission Ceviche.
Address: 353 West 14th Street, New York, NY 10014 (United States)
Urbanspace Vanderbilt
Urbanspace Vanderbilt is the ideal place to stop for a delicious meal while exploring the Midtown area of New York. It is rare that you do not find anything you like, since it has countless vegetarian, vegan and healthy food stalls. If this doesn’t particularly appeal to you, don’t worry, as there are also taco bars, cocktail bars, sushi bars, and hamburger bars. Tall windows and low, warm lighting envelop the place in an energetic, informal atmosphere. We highly recommend you try the honey sriracha chicken wings at Hong Kong Street Cart. I’m sure you can’t help but lick your fingers afterwards. There are other Urbanspace locations on Lexington Avenue and the Garment District.
Address: East 45th & Vanderbilt Avenue, New York, NY 10169 (United States)
Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg is the largest open-air weekly food market in the United States, famous for its endless selections. In this place, known as the epicenter of New York fusion cuisine, you can enjoy the most exclusive culinary experiences in the city. We advise you to go with your friends and share the dishes to be able to try everything you want. In the summer or spring months, it is advisable to bring an umbrella and use sunscreen, since you will not find many areas covered from the sun.
Although there are many dishes worth trying, don’t miss the famous ramen burger. The market is held at East River State Park on Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and at Prospect Park on Sundays at the same time, from where you can enjoy fantastic views of Manhattan Island. Remember to bring cash and an empty stomach.
DeKalb Market Hall
DeKalb Market Hall is a bustling food court with delicious food outlets decked out in neon signs. This food labyrinth is made up of narrow spaces that are often crowded with people and is somewhat reminiscent of the bustling food markets of Asia. Each of the 40 stalls offers a distinctive dish, reflecting the ethnic and cultural diversity of the area. We recommend you try Fletcher’s brisket sandwich. This simple dish couldn’t be more delicious, as the thick pieces of meat are smoked and can be garnished with barbecue sauce and gherkins.
Address: Basement Level of City Point, 445 Albee Square West, Brooklyn, NY 11201 (United States)