Fast food is a common choice for New Yorkers because they are constantly on the go. There are a ton of great locations to get a quick snack, but the restaurants in this directory stand out for their unique twists on traditional fast cuisine.
As you may have observed, New Yorkers occasionally exhibit signs of franticness. Due to this, there is a fantastic fast-food restaurant on almost every street in the city, and an increasing number of street food vendors are vying to become the greatest food trucks in New York City.
So whether you’re looking for the best hot dogs this side of Coney Island or the best burgers in NYC, you’re guaranteed to find something in New York—and quickly.
Here are the top 10 fast food restaurants and Fast food menus in New York.
1. Nathan’s Famous
Nathan’s Famous is always a top contender when looking for the best new place to get a fast bite. Since 1916, this recognizable chain has been selling hot dogs at its outlets all over the world. Although Nathan’s is most famous for its hot dogs, it also serves up a tasty range of burgers. Despite the fact that Nathan’s is most famous for its hot dogs, it also serves up a tasty range of burgers, fries, and shakes.
Also, because of its accessible locations, you can grab a quick supper without deviating too far from your planned excursion. So make sure to include Nathan’s Famous on your list, whether you’re looking for a fast snack or a traditional New York experience.
2. Sweet green
Everyone has written thought pieces on “the future of fast food,” but how many of these healthy, earth-friendly alternatives truly sound appetizing? Fortunately, this D.C. import delivers when it comes to salads that are completely stacked: the Rad Thai is crammed with citrus shrimp, sprouts, and sunflower seeds in a spicy cashew dressing, while the Hello Portobello piles high with raw beets, organic wild rice, shredded kale, and a miso-sesame-ginger dressing. You’ll probably find yourself stumbling back for lunch tomorrow if you’re anything like us.
3. Schnipper’s
Schnipper’s, which has locations in three of New York City’s busiest areas, is well-liked by locals and visitors who are looking for a quick but satisfying classic American lunch. It offers a variety of classic American dishes, including burgers, Mac and cheese, and gourmet salads. After finishing your fries, indulge in a homemade milkshake with one of their unusual flavors, such as honey vanilla, salted caramel, or mocha.
4. Jollibee
You should check out Jollibee if you enjoy Filipino cuisine. There are locations of this eatery all around the world, and they are unquestionably worth seeing. You can get traditional chicken dishes like the Chicken Joy in addition to other great choices like Joyful Spaghetti and Peach Mango Pie that will leave you craving more.
5. Five Guys
Being distinctive in a city that is well-known for its cuisine might be challenging. Because of its excellent burgers and fries, Five Guys has succeeded in doing exactly that. It’s simple to figure out why the franchise has quickly risen to prominence as one of New York’s most popular fast-food restaurants.
Fresh, hand-pressed beef is used to make Five Guys burgers, and all of the oil used to cook the fries is peanut oil. It’s no surprise that Five Guys is one of the greatest new fast-food restaurants in town when you consider the complimentary peanuts you may enjoy while you wait.
6. Shake Shack
No matter what neighborhood you reside in or how refined your palate may be, there’s a good chance that you’ve tasted burger paradise at one of Danny Meyer’s 14 restaurants in New York City. Everyone who can take lactose has achieved ice-cream heaven with an icy-cold custard concrete, while burger devotees appreciate the iconic Shack burger and vegetarians cling to the incredible ‘Shroom Burger. Although commonplace and frequently busy, this modern fast-food classic never fails to satisfy.
7. Blockheads
Blockheads is another popular Mexican restaurant in NYC, and they take pride in their reputation for serving their food in heavy portions. The chain has six profitable locations in Manhattan, which is a sizable footprint, but their goal is, we quote, “global dominance.” You’ll understand once you try one of their dessert shooters or quesadillas filled with guacamole.
8. Wafels & Dinges
Toasty and warm waffles are the specialty of the Belgian food truck Wafels & Dinges. For its mouthwatering waffles, the truck has garnered multiple accolades, including the NYC Vendy Award for best mobile vendor. Biscuit spread and Belgian chocolate sauces are only a couple of the sweet toppings that are placed on top of the waffles.
9. Ray’s Pizza
Since 1959, this straightforward pizzeria has been dishing out delectable slices, and it does not appear to be slowing down.
Why is Ray’s Pizza so unique? It could be the well-balanced toppings, the thin crust, or the secret sauce. Or perhaps it’s just that the coal-fired oven cooks the pizza to perfection.
Whatever the cause, Ray’s Pizza is without a doubt the best New York fast food available.
10. Gray’s Papaya
This storied 24-hour hot dog shop may only have one location left, but that only strengthens its reputation. Since 1973, celebrities like Tony Bourdain and the women of Sex and the City have praised Gray. Your goal is to purchase two dogs for $4.50 and learn the cause of the commotion.
11. Prêt a Manger
If you ever need a pick-me-up before an interview, appointment, or date in Manhattan, you’re probably going to find one at one of Prêt’s roughly two dozen outlets. Pret is a popular substitute for Starbucks for those who can’t tolerate it, thanks to its clean stores and well-prepared sandwiches.
