Queens New York, USA Travel Guide
Queens has a mosaic of global flavors. Its culinary identity developed as waves of immigrants settled here, establishing restaurants with traditional, generations-old recipes. The food here is evidence of cultural preservation.
Strong Greek influence (souvlaki, gyros), also quality Italian and Middle Eastern.
Dominantly Chinese cuisine (Sichuan, Cantonese), Korean BBQ, Vietnamese pho, Malaysian.
Hub for South Asian (curries, snacks) and Latin American (arepas, empanadas) food.
Skewered or sliced meats in pita with tzatziki, tomato, onion. Find authentic versions in Astoria.
Astoria: Mediterranean, Meat
Freshly made, chewy noodles in savory broths or stir-fries, alongside various dumplings.
Flushing: Asian, Noodles
Cornmeal flatbreads, often filled with cheese, shredded meat, or scrambled eggs. A hearty staple.
Jackson Heights: Latin American, Flatbread
Li City has a thriving craft brewery scene with beers from the area.
Taiwanese tea-based drink with tapioca pearls, highly sought-after in Flushing.
Queens has fewer dedicated fine dining establishments compared to Manhattan. Upscale options in Long Island City offer modern American cuisine and skyline views, suitable for special occasions.
Mid-range restaurants are abundant across most Queens neighborhoods. Diverse global cuisines offer comfortable dining experiences with quality food at reasonable prices. Excellent for a satisfying meal.
Budget eateries and street food are a highlight. Explore ethnic enclaves for incredibly authentic and affordable options. Flushing's food plazas are excellent for sampling Asian dishes at low prices.
Bustling indoor food courts (New World Mall, Flushing Commons) and markets offer vast arrays of prepared foods and fresh produce.
Asian, Fresh Produce, Prepared Foods
A major outdoor event (seasonal) showing diverse street food from local vendors, art, and folk performances.
Seasonal, Outdoor, Global Cuisine
Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Malaysian
Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Nepalese, Tibetan
Colombian, Mexican, Ecuadorian, Peruvian
Greek, Italian, Irish, West Asian, Filipino, Ethiopian
An increasing number of restaurants offer gluten-free options. Always inform your server clearly about any allergies. Cross-contamination can occur; severe allergies require caution.
Consistently communicate your needs thoroughly.
Use apps like Yelp (filter by preferences) and HappyCow (vegan/vegetarian). Search local food blogs or forums. Call restaurants ahead or speak with staff upon arrival.
Direct communication is .
Kosher food is available in neighborhoods with significant Jewish communities. Look in Forest Hills, Kew Gardens, and Fresh Meadows.
The incredible concentration of international food in Queens lets you experience everything from spicy to savory, sweet, and sour.
Guided tours in Astoria (Greek), Flushing (Asian), or Jackson Heights (South Asian/Latin American) offer cultural insights.
Experience an urban farm, see livestock, and explore historical buildings. Seasonal produce is available.
Some arts centers or private chefs have lessons to learn traditional dishes.
A rich, sweet Greek pastry made of filo dough, nuts, and syrup/honey. A specialty in Astoria.
Sweet & Nutty
Chinese cuisine made in small, bite-sized portions, often served with tea. Available in Flushing.
Small Plates
Venture into neighborhoods like Astoria, Flushing, and Jackson Heights for true culinary journeys.
Food festivals and cultural events offer special dishes and a lively atmosphere.
Be mindful of tipping practices and sharing traditions, especially in ethnic restaurants.
Queens is a global culinary destination where you might experience virtually every cuisine imaginable, making it a dream for food enthusiasts.
