I’ve now spent a full year in this wild, exciting, and chaotic city.
I wouldn’t call myself a local. I’m more like a one-year tourist who just happened to live here. I wandered through a lot of neighborhoods and ate a lot of meals. Some were nostalgic, some were surprising, and some were simply comforting in the middle of a homesick week.
Here’s a list of the places I recommend.
🥯 Breakfast & Brunch
Liberty Bagels (Midtown & FiDi)
My favorite bagel in NYC. I was skeptical of the rainbow bagel at first, but it turned out to be surprisingly delicious and totally unforgettable. I usually stop by when taking visitors to Central Park or Wall Street. I recommand trying one sweet (Oreo, blueberry, or Nutella) and one savory such as lox, avocado, egg and cheese— and share with friends. They also do festive holiday bagels that are photogenic.
Ellen’s Stardust Diner (Midtown)
If you’re short on time or budget and can’t catch a Broadway show, this diner is a fun alternative. The food isn’t anything special, but the live singing waitstaff give you a little taste of musical theater magic while you eat.
🍽️ Lunch & Dinner
Maison Pickle (Upper West Side)
My favorite restaurant in the city!!! The French toast fried chicken is unreal: it’s sweet, spicy, savory, crispy, and soft. The buffalo mac & cheese is pure comfort. The garlic bun is famous, but I personally prefer the herb one more. For dessert, try the Oreo cake, even though the signature 24-layer cake looks cooler.
Prince Street Pizza (SoHo)
The square slice here is iconic — thick, crispy, cheesy, and a little greasy in the best way. It’s probably too heavy for a typical Taiwanese stomach, but hey, you’re in NYC! Embrace the junk food.
Sakagura (Midtown East)
High-quality Japanese food that’s still affordable. Come for the weekday lunch special if you work close to Grand Central!
Maxi’s Noodle (Flushing)
The best wonton I’ve had in the U.S. I made the trip to Flushing just for it twice! Still need to try their Manhattan location.
Bar B (Greenwich Village)
A tiny standing bar with great happy hour and fun energy. No seats, but that’s part of the charm. Dishes are all small plates. But it has never disappointed me.
Keens Steakhouse (Midtown)
Not a place I’d go alone, but perfect when family visits. Classic NYC steakhouse with rich dishes. Bonus: their desserts come from top bakeries like Eileen’s Special Cheesecake — so you get the best without the line.
🍰 Desserts & Cafés
Bibble & Sip (Midtown)
Their cream puff reminds me of the quality I’d expect in Asia. A perfect homesick cure when you’re craving something sweet and familiar.
Cha-An Teahouse (East Village)
A lovely matcha spot with thoughtful desserts and a calm, cozy atmosphere. Get there right when it opens to avoid a wait — it fills up quickly for good reason.
Anita La Mamma del Gelato (Upper West Side)
My go-to ice cream spot (been here over five times). Rich, creamy, and full of fun flavors. Still looking for something to beats The Franklin Fountain in Philly.
Veniero’s Pasticceria & Caffe (East Village)
Old-school Italian café with huge slices of cake and a cozy, uncrowded vibe. The cheesecake is solid. Not a “must-go,” but a lovely stop if you’re in the area after dinner.
🌙 Late Night Eats
Katz’s Delicatessen (Lower East Side)
A New York legend. Huge pastrami sandwiches and chaotic vintage vibes. Tip: Go after midnight after bar— they’re open 24/7, and you’ll skip the crazy lines.
The Overlook Bar (Midtwon)
I went here for the Speakeasy Magick show. The bartender is surpringly awesome! No menu! Just tell her what you want, and you will get a wonderful cocktail.
Double Chicken Please (Lower East Side)
This bar is crazy busy — I don’t think I’d wait in that line again. But if you’ve never been and you’re curious, the tea-based cocktails are genuinely impressive. It’s rare to find cocktails with this kind of tea flavor and balance in the U.S. Worth trying once… if you have the patience.
If you’re visiting or just moved here, I hope this list gives you a few ideas to start with. And if you have better gelato recommendations, please let me know. I’m still looking.