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Eat NYC's Most Iconic Foods at Grand Central Terminal

New York City is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, but there are a few standout foods that are undeniably, iconically New York. Instead of taking three different subway lines, a crosstown bus, and even a ferry to find them all, bring your appetite to the Dining Concourse of Grand Central Terminal, where you'll find the most definitive New York foods, from matzo ball soup to cheesecake.

If you think Grand Central Terminal is merely one of the world's mostly bustling commuter hubs, well you're right. Some 750,000 people pass through the station each day. But you'd be remiss to rush your trip. It's an architectural marvel, truly one of the most beautifully built buildings in the city, with its famed arched blue ceiling complete with zodiac mural. There is world-class shopping, a gourmet market and even a hidden tennis court. The whole place is worth exploring further. (Click here for an exclusive discount on the Grand Central Audio Tour.)  But perhaps the most convincing reason to stay is the host of great restaurants where you can sample the most authentic New York City foods under one (famous) roof.

  matzo

Matzo Ball Soup at Mendy's Kosher Delicatessen and Dairy
212-856-9399; mendysdeli.com

Mendy's own matzo ball soup, a.k.a. "Jewish Penicillin," to cure whatever ails you with steamy, savory broth, and fluffy matzo balls for your spoon to carve into. If you're seeking refuge on a cold, rainy day...this is where you'll want to dive in.

magnolia

Cupcakes at Magnolia Bakery
212-682-3588; magnoliabakery.com 

The bakery is famous for serving New Yorkers the most delicious classic vanilla cupcake with buttery vanilla frosting. Take home a whole box and mix and match with their homemade, pastel frostings for a colorful assortment. Fun fact: Solidifying their iconic New York status, these sweet treats were featured in an SNL digital short starring Andy Samberg.

shake-shack

The ShackBurger at Shake Shack
646-517-5804; shakeshack.com 

One of New York's most classic burgers: the ShackBurger, boasting 100 percent freshly ground Angus beef topped melted cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mysterious, delicious, ShackSauce. Go ahead, order the double. We did.

cheesecake

Cheesecake at Junior's Restaurant and Bakery
212-983-5257 (restaurant); 212-692-9800 (bakery); juniorscheesecake.com

Junior's is home to New York's most famous and "most fabulous" cheesecake and has been making true New Yorkers clean their plates since 1950 at the original location in Brooklyn. But there's no need to leave Manhattan thanks to the location here. Promptly order every flavor on the menu, but the original cheesecake is the real deal.

panroast

Oyster Pan Roast at Oyster Bar & Restaurant
212-490-6650; oysterbarny.com

The Oyster Pan Roast, notably awarded "Greatest Dish" by Grub Street, is comprised of half a dozen Bluepoint oysters swimming in a superbly seasoned creamy base, sitting atop toast that's been soaking up the dish's myriad flavors. It's insanely rich and totally delicious. And to enjoy said dish in the glorious seafood bar that's been operating continuously since 1913, well...it doesn't get more New York than that.

steak

Double Cut New York Strip for Two at Michael Jordan's The Steakhouse N.Y.C.
North Balcony, 212-655-2300; michaeljordansnyc.com

New York is a steak town. Indeed the best cut of meat was named after it (sorry, filet mignon). This mouthwatering 32 ounce Double Cut New York Strip for Two is a prime example. The sharable carniverous feast is prepared at your desired temperature, but we vote rare, so you can really get the most out of this juicy beast.



Manhattan at the Campbell Apartment
In the balcony, 212-953-0409; hospitalityholdings.com 

Head to the balcony in a marked elevator to Grand Central's own speakeasy-style cocktail bar and throw back this classic cocktail, made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, bitters, and a cherry. Proper dress required. No sneakers, ball caps, etc. A small price to pay for such excellent drinks.

About the Author

Melanie Baker hopes her aura is purple, and maintains a strict sushi diet. Big fan of mini-horses, Spotify, and pretending to be fluent in Spanish. She has 19 siblings and counting.

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