The Best Street Food Spots in NYC

Is there a sentence more beautiful than ‘do want to get street food’? We think not. And when you’re in New York City, you are spoiled for choice. But where exactly do you go for street food in NYC, a city famed for delicious eateries practically around every corner? We’ve got it covered. We’ve hunted down the best street food in New York, from local favorites to places a little off the beaten track. Grab your wallet, your takeout containers (in case you have leftovers) and hit up these tried-and-tested spots.

Try Tacos and Burgers at Swingers Crazy Golf

Can’t make up your mind on what street food to try? Swingers Nomad is here to solve your dilemma. We’ve partnered with some of the city’s best food vendors, so you can try them all! We’ve got grass-fed beef burgers and spicy chicken sandwiches from Emmy2 Burger, carnitas tacos and mango guacamole from Tacos Fonda, and vodka pizza and fresh garlic knots from sauce pizza. In the mood for something sweet? Whilst you’re here, why don’t you have a quick round of mini golf, or sip a cheeky libation in one of our stylish bars? We’ll see you there.

The Wafels & Dinges Truck

The award-winning Wafels & Dinges is here for the carb-lovers. They’re famous for their batter-based liege waffles – the perfect sugary pick-me-up on-to-go. You can build your own waffle, or choose one that’s ready to go – S’mores or strawberry shortcake waffles sound good to you? If you’re feeling a little adventurous, and need a caffeine fix, opt for the intriguing Waffodugato. This features waffle bites, dulce de leche, vanilla ice cream, with an espresso shot poured over. Feeling more savory? The all day breakfast menu includes house grilled ham and cheese, spinach croissant, and the early turkey breakfast waffle –  made with turkey sausage, bananas and maple syrup. Sound right up Elvis Presley’s street. Waffles & Dinges bright Orange trucks can be found across the city, including by the Flat Iron and outside the Museum of Natural History.

Los Tacos No. 1

Los Tacos No. 1 is serving up authentic Mexican street food here on the East Coast. Choose from corn and flour tortillas for your taco or tostada, and fill up with grilled steak, chicken, or pork. On a veggie kick? Opt for the Nopal grilled cactus as your protein. If you’re not in the mood for tacos (but honestly, who isn’t ever in the taco mood?), quesadillas and mulas are also on the menu. Carb up on chips with salsa or guacamole, and wash it all down with an agua fresca. Los Tacos No. 1 is ideal for a quick but equal parts flavorful and filling bite to eat. Locations can be found in Chelsea Market, Times square, and Grand Central. Heads up – there might be a long line. But our sources say it’s definitely worth it!

Taïm

Taïm is Israeli-Mediterranean street food at its best, having first started in a tiny kitchen in the West Village. Be prepared for a wait at the OG location – this place is really popular! But for those who aren’t so good at waiting – Taïm Mobile trucks can be found across NYC. But let’s get onto what we are all here for – the food. Choose a pita or bowl as your base, then load up on flavourful ingredients. Choose from falafel, chicken shawarma,hummus, chopped up greens, roasted meatballs, za′atar croutons, avocado, red pepper baba ganoush, pickles, tahini, whipped vinaigrette – the list goes on! Team with a side of hand cut fries with saffron aioli, and finish off with a piece of sticky and sweet baklava. Yum!

Di Fara Pizza

Now the question of ‘where is the best pizza in NYC’ is a contentious topic, but we’ve found a mighty contender – Di Fara Pizza. You know it’s good when it has its own wikipedia page. Di Fata dates back to 1965, after owner Dom emigrated to Brooklyn from Italy. Each pizza is handcrafted by Dom, who has spent over 50 years perfecting his recipes. Yes, he’s still at it! Get pizza by the slice or a full pie, and choose from classic toppings. These include pepperoni, meatballs, sun dried tomatoes, wild onions, and olives to name a few. There are three locations to choose – Midwood, Williamsburg and the recently opened South street Seaport. Do note that the original location only has 15 seats inside, and can attract quite a crowd! 

Try the Famous Cronut at Dominique Ansel Creations

Welcome to sweet tooth heaven at Dominique Ansel Creation – home of the cronut. This year marks its 10 year anniversary! This croissant-donut hybrid is everything you dream of – light, flakey, and irresistibly tasty. The flavor changes every month and never repeats. There are other playful sweet treats to enjoy too, including chocolate chip cookie shots, kiwi sorbet bars, and frozen s’mores. Check out the two locations in NYC, where you are invited to dine in or take away. The interiors are light and spacious, creating an relaxing atmosphere to indulge in your treat.

Nakamura Ramen

You know you’re in for a tasty time when the chef is declared a ‘Ramen God’. Ramen Nakamura is based in the Lower East Side and is famous for – you guessed it – ramen.. But before you get into the main attraction, how about starting with some small plates? There’s spicy yuzu wonton soup, umami truffle fries, and pesto covered edamame beans. For those who are a little more impatient, go for what this joint is famous for. We’re particularly tempted by the shrimp yuzu wanton bowl. There’s vegan options a-plenty with the truffle miso and XO miso ramen bowls. Do plan ahead with this one. There’s limited seating inside and, like many of the spots on this list, is very popular and fills up quickly.

Fuku

Check out the best of fusion cuisine with a sando sandwich from Fuku. With a menu inspired by a variety of Asian and American flavors, the original East Village location opened back in 2015. Fuku locations can now be found at Hudson Yards and Rockefeller Center, as well as in stadiums across the country. So what’s there to eat? Find variations on Fuku’s famous sando, made with Crispy Habanero-brined Chicken Breast, mayo, and pickles all in a potato roll. We’ll order two. Variations on this taste-bud-pleaser include the C.B.R, with crispy bacon and ranch, and the knockout, with seasoned cabbage and creamy-tangy sauce. Add in a portion of sweet jalapeño seasoned waffle fries and you’re good to go!

MáLà Project

Enjoy comforting Sichuan cuisine at the MáLà Project. Featured in the Michelin Guide, this spot is the place for Northern Chinese dishes. Try building (note: cooking) your own dry pot with your choice of meat, seafood, and/or vegetables, all wok fried with the signature secret MáLà sauce. There’s plenty of dim sum, noodles, and speciality rice dishes try as well. Expect spicy, bold and fresh flavors and a friendly, relaxed environment.

Los Mariscos

Los Mariscos is the home of authentic Mexican home recipes, fresh seafood, and tongue-tingling flavors. This lively, counter-service restaurant can be found in Chelsea Market, and serves budget-friendly bites. Run by the same team behind Los Tacos, this is the seafood sibling of the popular street food vendor. There’s fish tacos, ceviche, and shrimp cocktail to try. Accompany your main with a side of chips and, if you’re feeling fancy, and margarita, and you’ll be laughing all the way home. Sit down on one of the restaurant’s picnic tables, and get stuck in.