87th Street might not be the first thoroughfare that springs to mind when planning a foodie adventure in the city, but beneath its unassuming facade lies a delectable world of flavors waiting to be discovered. Nestled within the urban landscape, 87th Street presents a surprisingly diverse and satisfying array of dining experiences. From comforting classics to exotic international cuisines and hidden gems cherished by locals, this street offers a taste of something for everyone. So, put on your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and let’s embark on a culinary journey along 87th Street, uncovering the best places to eat and the unforgettable flavors to savor. This article explores the diverse food options that 87th Street has to offer, highlighting its culinary diversity and the many hidden dining gems that are ready to be explored.
Classic Comfort Food Favorites
Sometimes, all you crave is a familiar taste, a dish that evokes a sense of home and warmth. Fortunately, 87th Street delivers on the comfort food front, offering a selection of establishments that serve up those reliable and satisfying classics. If you are searching for the best places to eat that offer classic comfort foods, then 87th street is the place to be.
First, let’s talk about diners. The All-American diner is a cornerstone of comfort food, and 87th Street boasts at least one that’s a true neighborhood institution. “The Golden Spoon,” as the locals affectionately call it, serves up generous portions of breakfast favorites like fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked eggs. For lunch and dinner, you can’t go wrong with their juicy burgers, stacked high with fresh toppings, or their classic Reuben sandwich, piled with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. The friendly staff, the retro decor, and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee make The Golden Spoon a perfect spot for a satisfying and nostalgic meal. One regular mentioned, “I’ve been coming here since I was a kid. It’s like a second home. They know my order before I even sit down!”
Of course, no discussion of comfort food is complete without mentioning pizza. “Tony’s Pizzeria,” a family-owned business that’s been on 87th Street for over thirty years, is a local favorite. Their New York-style pizzas are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and their crust is perfectly crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Whether you prefer a classic Margherita, a spicy pepperoni, or a loaded supreme, Tony’s has a pizza to satisfy your cravings. And don’t forget to try their garlic knots, which are legendary in the neighborhood.
And for those craving the quintessential New York deli experience, “Katz’s Deli,” not the famed one downtown, but a worthy namesake on 87th Street, offers a wide range of sandwiches, soups, and salads. Their pastrami on rye is a must-try, with tender, flavorful pastrami piled high on fresh rye bread. They also offer a variety of classic deli sides, like potato salad, coleslaw, and pickles. Katz’s is the perfect place to grab a quick and satisfying lunch or a hearty dinner.
A Taste of the World: International Flavors on 87th Street
Beyond its classic comfort food offerings, 87th Street surprises with its diverse range of international cuisines. From the vibrant flavors of Mexico to the delicate aromas of Italy and the exotic spices of Asia, there’s a world of culinary experiences to discover on this unassuming street. This block is full of amazing places to eat that will expand your palette.
Let’s start with “Casa Mexicana,” a vibrant and colorful restaurant that brings the authentic flavors of Mexico to 87th Street. Their menu features a wide range of traditional dishes, from flavorful tacos and enchiladas to savory mole sauces and sizzling fajitas. Their margaritas are legendary, made with fresh lime juice and top-shelf tequila. The lively atmosphere and the friendly staff make Casa Mexicana a perfect spot for a festive and delicious meal. The owner, Maria, says, “We want to bring the flavors of my grandmother’s kitchen to this neighborhood. Everything is made with love and the freshest ingredients.”
For a taste of Italy, look no further than “Bella Italia,” a charming trattoria that serves up classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Their homemade pasta is a must-try, whether you choose the creamy carbonara, the flavorful Bolognese, or the delicate ravioli. They also offer a selection of delicious seafood dishes, grilled meats, and wood-fired pizzas. The cozy atmosphere and the romantic lighting make Bella Italia a perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The chef, Giovanni, explains, “We use only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking methods to create dishes that are both authentic and innovative.”
And for those craving the exotic flavors of Asia, “Spice Route” offers a pan-Asian menu with dishes from Thailand, China, and Japan. Their Pad Thai is a crowd-pleaser, with perfectly cooked noodles, flavorful sauce, and fresh vegetables. They also offer a variety of sushi rolls, stir-fries, and curries. The elegant decor and the attentive service make Spice Route a perfect spot for a sophisticated and delicious meal. “We want to take our customers on a culinary journey through Asia,” says the manager, Li. “Our dishes are made with authentic ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.”
Hidden Gems and Local Dining Spots
87th Street is also home to a number of hidden gems and local favorites, those underrated or lesser-known eateries that are worth seeking out. These are the places that locals swear by, the spots that offer something truly unique and special. These are the places to eat that will keep you coming back for more.
First up is “The Daily Bread,” a small bakery that’s been a neighborhood fixture for over twenty years. Their croissants are legendary, perfectly flaky and buttery. They also offer a variety of other pastries, breads, and cakes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. “I come here every morning for my croissant and coffee,” says a local resident. “It’s the perfect way to start my day.”
Another hidden gem is “The Gourmet Grocer,” a small food shop that sells a variety of specialty items, including artisanal cheeses, cured meats, olive oils, and vinegars. They also offer a selection of prepared foods, like salads, sandwiches, and soups. “We’re passionate about food,” says the owner, Sarah. “We want to bring the best ingredients and products from around the world to our neighborhood.”
And if you’re lucky enough to catch “The Taco Truck,” a popular food truck that parks on 87th Street on weekends, you’re in for a treat. Their tacos are made with fresh, flavorful ingredients, and their salsa is legendary. “These are the best tacos in the city,” says one loyal customer. “I’ve been coming here for years.”
Sweet Endings: Dessert Spots on 87th Street
No culinary journey is complete without a sweet ending, and 87th Street offers a selection of delightful dessert spots to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re craving ice cream, pastries, or cakes, you’ll find something to love on this street. If you love to eat dessert, then 87th street has some of the best local dessert restaurants in town.
“Sweet Dreams Ice Cream Parlor” is a classic ice cream parlor that’s been serving up delicious frozen treats for over thirty years. Their ice cream is made in-house, with fresh ingredients and creative flavors. They also offer a variety of sundaes, milkshakes, and floats. “We want to bring a smile to everyone’s face with our ice cream,” says the owner, Michael.
“The Cake Box” is a charming bakery that specializes in cakes, cupcakes, and other baked goods. Their cakes are beautifully decorated and incredibly delicious. They also offer custom cake orders for special occasions. “We’re passionate about creating beautiful and delicious cakes,” says the baker, Emily. “We want to make every celebration special.”
And for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, “The Cozy Cafe” offers a variety of desserts along with coffee and tea. Their chocolate cake is a must-try, rich and decadent. They also offer a selection of pastries, cookies, and muffins. “We want to create a cozy and welcoming space where people can enjoy delicious desserts and drinks,” says the owner, David.
In Conclusion
As you can see, 87th Street offers a surprisingly diverse and satisfying culinary experience. From classic comfort food favorites to exotic international cuisines and hidden gems cherished by locals, there’s something for everyone to discover on this unassuming street. If you are looking for a bite to eat at one of the best places to eat, then 87th street can offer you a variety of dining options.
So, I encourage you to explore the food scene on 87th Street and discover your own favorites. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the city, you’re sure to find something to love on this culinary journey. From burgers to pizza to tacos and pasta, 87th Street can offer you the best places to eat no matter what type of cuisine you are craving.
87th Street proves that culinary adventures can be found in the most unexpected places. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best flavors are hidden in plain sight, waiting to be discovered and savored. So, go ahead, take a stroll down 87th Street, and let your taste buds guide you on a delicious journey.
