What‘s the best?

Friends, family members & even strangers are constantly asking me “where can I find the best _____ in the city?” After years of this daunting and overwhelming question, the time has finally come for me to document my bests. Before I begin, let me just start off by saying this: I am no expert. I have no formal experience in the restaurant world and am far from a critic, but I do eat a lot. And I mean like a lot.

So here is my best of list. (note that this is specific to Manhattan, not even going to pretend I am qualified to answer this question about any other borough). If you think of another type of food/cuisine I should add, comment and let me know!

Best Tacos

Los Tacos No. 1

Chicken & Steak Tacos at Los Tacos No. 1 (Photo: Roxanne Schwartz)
Runner(s) Up
  • Empellón Al Pastor
  • Tacos Morelos
  • La Esquina Corner Deli

Best Ramen

Totto Ramen

Spicy Tonaktsu Ramen at Totto Ramen (Photo: Ryan You)
Runner(s) Up
  • Ivan Ramen
  • Momofuku Noodle Bar
  • Minca
  • Mr. Taka Ramen

Best Pizza (Pie)

Don Antonio by Starita

Fried Pizza at Don Antonio by Starita (Photo: Roxanne Schwartz)
Runner(s) Up
  • Keste
  • Motorino
  • Luzzos

Best Pizza (Slice)

Joe’s Pizza

Pepperoni Slice at Joe’s Pizza (Photo: Roxanne Schwartz)
Runner(s) Up
  • Prince Street Pizza
  • NY Pizza Suprema
  • Sal & Carmine

Best Burger

Spotted Pig

The chargrilled burger at The Spotted Pig (Photo: Zoren Jelenic)
Runner(s) Up
  • Minetta Tavern
  • JG Melon
  • Royale

Best Bagel

Brooklyn Bagel (chelsea)

Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese at Brooklyn Bagel (Photo: Style Domaine)
Runner(s) Up
  • Ess-a-bagel
  • Absolute Bagels
  • Murray’s Bagels

Best Donut

Doughnut Plant

Assorted donuts at Doughnut Plant (Photo: Roxanne Schwartz)
Runner(s) Up
  • Underwest Donuts
  • Dough
  • The Doughnut Project

Best Pasta

il Buco Alimentari & Vineria

Runner(s) Up
  • Scarpetta
  • All’onda
  • Vic’s
  • Supper
  • Bar Primi

Best Ice Cream

Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream

Runner(s) Up
  • Davey’s Ice Cream
  • Ample Hills
  • Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream
  • Sundaes & Cones

Best Sushi

Sushi of Gari

Tuna with jalapeño chive oil at Sushi of Gari (Photo: Roxanne Schwartz)
Runner(s) Up
  • Sushi Yasuda
  • Kura
  • Sushi Seki