The Great Debate: New York’s Best BBQ / Pizza / Seafood Spots Ranked
In the heart of Brooklyn, just a quick subway ride from Manhattan’s bustling core, lies the neighborhood of Williamsburg, a hotspot for pizza aficionados. Within this vibrant area, places like Roberta’s have redefined New York pizza with a creative twist. Known for its wood-fired oven and locally sourced ingredients, Roberta’s serves up pies that marry traditional Neapolitan techniques with inventive toppings like honeycomb and burrata. The rustic, industrial-chic setting adds to the experience, and the lively weekend crowds make it a memorable spot. Visiting in the spring or early fall allows you to enjoy their outdoor seating while savoring a slice, making the pizza tasting both a culinary and social delight.
Upstate, about two hours north of Albany, the town of Kingston hosts the acclaimed P&G’s, a BBQ joint that brings Southern smokehouse mastery to New York’s Hudson Valley. Here, slow-cooked meats like brisket and ribs draw on authentic pit-smoking methods, with hickory wood imparting a deep, smoky flavor not often found in the Northeast. The rustic ambiance echoes the town’s colonial roots, making it a perfect place to enjoy hearty BBQ after a day exploring the nearby Kingston Waterfront or the historic Rondout district. Autumn is especially magical here when the fall foliage paints the river valley in fiery hues, complementing the rich, smoky scents wafting from the smoker.
In Manhattan’s East Village, the seafood scene finds a champion in the venerable Grand Central Oyster Bar, located beneath the iconic Grand Central Terminal. Though a bit east of Midtown, visiting this subterranean locale feels like stepping into a time capsule of New York dining history. Their extensive oyster selection, drawn from various coasts, showcases the state’s affinity for fresh, briny flavors. The vaulted tile ceilings and marble countertops provide an ornate backdrop as you slurp oysters or savor clam chowder. For the best experience, arrive midday during weekdays when the crowds thin out, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the menu and the terminal’s architecture above.
Heading west to Rochester, roughly an hour’s drive from the Finger Lakes, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que stands out as a regional institution blending Memphis-style barbecue with a Northern twist. Its industrial-chic décor paired with slow-smoked ribs and pulled pork sandwiches offers a hearty, soulful meal. What sets this spot apart is its commitment to balancing smoky intensity with vinegary and sweet sauces, respecting the diversity of BBQ traditions. After indulging, visitors can stroll by the nearby Genesee Riverway Trail, a scenic path along the river that showcases Rochester’s revitalized waterfront, making for a satisfying day of food and nature.
On Long Island’s North Fork, about two hours east of Manhattan, seafood lovers find their haven at The Frisky Oyster in Greenport. This quaint town combines Maritime charm with fresh, local seafood harvested from Peconic Bay. The Frisky Oyster’s approach is to highlight the natural flavors through simple preparations, such as grilled octopus or a shellfish platter featuring clams, mussels, and oysters. Greenport’s historic waterfront district, with its old whaling museum and picturesque marina, invites visitors to linger after their meal, especially during the summer months when harbor views and gentle breezes elevate the dining experience.
Returning to New York City’s Bronx borough, the Arthur Avenue Retail Market stands as a testament to the borough’s Italian culinary heritage, making it a prime destination for pizza lovers seeking authenticity beyond Manhattan. Here, family-run pizzerias serve classic New York-style pies with thin, crispy crusts and generous tomato sauce. The market atmosphere allows patrons to experience the neighborhood’s vibrant energy and connect with generations-old recipes. The hustle of the market is best experienced on weekend mornings when local vendors and shoppers create a lively scene reminiscent of old-world Italian bazaars.
In the Adirondack region, about four hours north of Albany, The Adirondack Smokehouse in Ticonderoga offers a unique take on BBQ set against a backdrop of rugged wilderness. Their pit-smoked meats are infused with hardwoods native to the region, lending a distinctive flavor that reflects the forested surroundings. After a meal here, visitors can explore nearby Fort Ticonderoga, where history buffs wander the well-preserved grounds and learn about Revolutionary War battles. Summer evenings bring long daylight hours to savor the tranquil lake views while enjoying slow-cooked barbecue, creating a perfect blend of nature and cuisine.
Finally, back in Manhattan, the Chelsea Market is a bustling indoor food hall just west of the High Line that encapsulates New York’s diverse culinary scene, especially when it comes to seafood. Vendors offer everything from lobster rolls inspired by New England to innovative sashimi and ceviche dishes drawing on global influences. The market’s location, adjacent to the elevated greenway, means visitors can combine a food crawl with a stroll along the High Line’s gardens and skyline views. Early afternoon visits are ideal for avoiding crowds and watching the city’s dynamic energy pulse through this iconic food hub.
Through neighborhoods and natural landscapes, from Brooklyn to the Adirondacks, New York’s culinary offerings in BBQ, pizza, and seafood reflect the state’s vibrant cultural mosaic. Each spot delivers a unique taste experience rooted deeply in its location, making every bite a journey into the diverse flavors that define New York. Whether savoring a smoky brisket after a hike, a crispy slice in a bustling market, or fresh oysters beneath historic arches, the state invites you to dig in and discover your own favorite.