The best things Time Out New York editors ate in 2024
New York City’s culinary scene never ceases to amaze with its vibrant, ever-evolving array of dining options, from the hole-in-the-wall eateries to the high-end gastronomic temples. As 2024 unfolded, Time Out New York editors left no stone unturned in the Big Apple’s vast food landscape, hunting down and sampling an incredible variety of dishes. In a year full of delicious exploration, these are the standout bites that truly captured our hearts and taste buds.
1. Revolutionary Ramen at Ramen Shack QNS – The chefs have reimagined traditional ramen with daring flavors and unconventional toppings. Their ‘Smoked Bacon Tonkotsu’ is an inventive twist on a classic that floored us with its depth of flavor.
2. The Uni Carbonara at Osteria Fusco – This dish boasts a heavenly blend of sea urchin and creamy sauce, giving this Italian staple an umami-packed elevation that we’re still dreaming about.
3. Persian Kebabs at Shandeez Grill – Saffron-kissed meat skewers served fresh off the charcoal grill transported our senses to the streets of Tehran. Outstandingly tender and aromatic, these kebabs are simply unmatched.
4. Sichuan Chili Crab at Red Chilli House – A delectably spicy dish that tests your heat tolerance while being addictively flavorful. This messy but memorable delight had us licking our fingers and reaching for more.
5. Brooklyn Blackout Cake at Sweet Dreams Bakery – A luscious multi-layered chocolate cake so rich and moist it felt like eating a slice of chocolate heaven itself. It was decadent enough to make even the staunchest dessert skeptic swoon.
6. Artisanal Empanadas at La Esquina Criolla – Each empanada is crafted with such care that every bite is a perfect mix of flaky pastry and sumptuous filling. The ‘Carne Picante’ empanada was fiery and filled with exquisitely seasoned beef.
7. Mango Lassi Popsicle at Kool Pops – A frozen treat that managed to perfectly capture the essence of summer in New York City—refreshing, sweet, with a hint of tanginess from ripe mangos; it’s childhood nostalgia on a stick.
8. Vegan Delight Pizza at Green Slice- Even die-hard carnivores were won over by this pie, topped with vegan cheese that melted flawlessly and an array of garden-fresh veggies on a gluten-free crust.
9. Matcha Mille Crêpe Cake at Tea Symphony- Twenty whisper-thin layers filled with matcha-flavored cream made for an elegant dessert that balanced sweetness with the distinctive tea bitterness masterfully.
10. Smoked Pastrami Sandwich at Katz’s Next Gen Deli – An iconic New York staple reinvented; smoked to perfection with a modern touch—a harmony of spices leading to an incredibly juicy, flavorful experience sandwiched between rye slices.
This list could easily go on as New York City’s edible offerings are infinite and diverse—but these culinary highlights stood out as some of the best things Time Out New York editors ate in 2024, reflecting both innovation and homage to tradition within NYC’s unparalleled dining scene.