17 New York Hole-In-The-Wall Restaurants Locals Can’t Stop Raving About
New Yorkers do not rave easily, so when the same tiny spots keep coming up in late-night texts, office debates, and neighbourhood arguments, it’s worth paying attention. You know the spots I’m talking about.
They are cramped storefronts with faded awnings, basement counters that smell like heaven, and takeout windows where the line stretches around the block for a reason.
Ask ten New Yorkers where they actually eat, not where they take visitors, and the answers start getting interesting. These aren’t the restaurants you’ll find plastered all over tourist guides, but they’re the ones locals guard like secret treasures and can’t help but brag about to anyone who’ll listen.
1. Tao Hong Bakery — Chinatown
Walking past this unassuming bakery on Mott Street, you’d never guess it’s home to some of the fluffiest, most pillowy buns in all of Manhattan. But locals know better.
Tao Hong Bakery at 194 Canal Street has been quietly serving up traditional Chinese pastries and buns that make you want to come back every single day.
The roast pork buns here are legendary—golden, slightly sweet dough wrapping around tender, savory pork that’s been marinated to perfection. You can grab a bag of six for less than the cost of a single latte uptown.
The egg tarts are another crowd favorite, with that perfect custard wobble and a buttery crust that shatters at first bite.
Everything is made fresh daily, and by afternoon, the popular items are often sold out. The staff works at lightning speed, boxing up orders while chatting in Cantonese.
There’s no fancy seating or Instagram-worthy decor—just honest, delicious baked goods that have kept this place packed for years. Cash is king here, so come prepared.
2. B&H Dairy — East Village
Squeeze into this tiny counter-service spot and you’ll immediately feel like you’ve stepped back in time. B&H Dairy has been serving comfort food on Second Avenue at 127 Second Avenue since 1938, and honestly, not much has changed—which is exactly why people love it.
The menu reads like a love letter to Eastern European Jewish cuisine mixed with classic diner fare. Their challah French toast is thick, eggy, and dusted with powdered sugar in a way that makes mornings feel special.
Pair it with their legendary matzo ball soup, which comes with a matzo ball so fluffy it practically floats.
Vegetarian options abound here, from pierogi to blintzes stuffed with cheese and topped with sour cream. The space is cramped—maybe a dozen stools at most—and you’ll likely be elbow-to-elbow with your neighbor.
But that’s part of the charm. The servers are quick, the prices are shockingly reasonable for the neighborhood, and the vibe is unpretentious in the best way.
Cash only, so hit the ATM first.
3. Sunny & Annie’s Deli — Lower East Side
Tucked away on a quiet corner, this Korean-run bodega doesn’t look like much from the outside. But step inside Sunny & Annie’s at 94 Avenue A, and you’ll discover why it’s become a cult favorite among downtown locals who crave something different from the usual deli sandwich.
Their specialty? Korean-inspired deli sandwiches that shouldn’t work but absolutely do.
The bulgogi breakfast sandwich is a revelation—sweet marinated beef, fried egg, melted cheese, and a drizzle of spicy mayo on a perfectly toasted roll. It’s messy, it’s bold, and it’s become the stuff of legend in the neighborhood.
They also do classic bacon-egg-and-cheese, but even that gets elevated with their housemade kimchi mayo. The owners, Sunny and Annie, run the place with warmth and efficiency, remembering regulars’ orders and always greeting you with a smile.
Prices are fair, portions are generous, and everything is made to order. It’s the kind of spot where you become a regular after just one visit.
4. Xi’an Famous Foods (Golden Mall Location) — Flushing
Sure, Xi’an Famous Foods has expanded across the city, but the original Golden Mall food court location in Flushing remains the most authentic experience. Hidden inside a nondescript shopping center at 41-28 Main Street, this tiny stall started it all and still serves some of the spiciest, most flavorful hand-pulled noodles you’ll ever taste.
The liang pi cold-skin noodles are slippery, tangy, and loaded with chili oil that builds heat with every bite. Their signature spicy cumin lamb noodles come piled high with tender meat and chewy, hand-ripped noodles that have just the right amount of bite.
The cumin and Sichuan peppercorns create a flavor profile that’s unlike anything else in the city.
Don’t expect much in terms of ambiance—you’re eating in a fluorescent-lit food court surrounded by other stalls serving everything from Malaysian to Taiwanese food. But that’s part of the adventure.
The prices are ridiculously low, the flavors are huge, and you’ll leave with your taste buds tingling. Bring cash and an appetite for spice.
5. Faicco’s Italian Specialties — West Village
Since 1900, this family-run Italian butcher shop and deli has been slinging some of the best sandwiches in Greenwich Village. Faicco’s at 260 Bleecker Street looks like it hasn’t changed much in over a century, with cured meats hanging from the ceiling and the smell of fresh mozzarella filling the air.
Order the Italian combo and watch as they pile on layers of prosciutto, soppressata, mortadella, provolone, roasted peppers, and a drizzle of olive oil on crusty bread. Every bite is a perfect balance of salty, savory, and just a little bit tangy.
The meatball parm is another knockout—homemade meatballs smothered in marinara and melted cheese that oozes out with every bite.
The staff moves fast, shouting orders and slicing meat with practiced precision. It’s loud, it’s chaotic, and it’s absolutely perfect.
You can also grab fresh pasta, imported cheeses, and house-made sausages to take home. This is old-school New York at its finest, and every sandwich tastes like a piece of history.
6. Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos — Bushwick
Fresh tortillas being made right in front of you—that’s the magic of Los Hermanos. Located at 271 Starr Street in Bushwick, this unassuming tortilleria and taqueria has become a neighborhood staple for anyone craving authentic Mexican food without the hype or the markup.
The tortillas are made from scratch throughout the day using traditional methods, and you can buy them by the kilo to take home or enjoy them immediately in one of their tacos. The carne asada tacos are simple but perfect—grilled steak, fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime on a warm, soft tortilla that tastes like actual corn.
They also serve up hearty tortas, quesadillas, and on weekends, rich pozole that’ll warm you from the inside out. The space is small and no-frills, with just a few tables and a counter where you order.
But the food speaks for itself. Prices are incredibly reasonable, and the portions are generous.
It’s the kind of place where you taste the difference that fresh, handmade ingredients make.
7. Court Street Grocers — Carroll Gardens
What started as a tiny sandwich counter has grown into a Brooklyn institution, but Court Street Grocers at 485 Court Street still maintains that neighborhood deli feel that made it famous. Their sandwiches are serious business—each one thoughtfully constructed with high-quality ingredients and just the right balance of flavors.
The Godmother is their signature creation: layers of salami, mortadella, ham, provolone, pickled peppers, and their addictive Calabrian chili mayo on a sesame semolina hero. It’s spicy, savory, and completely addictive.
The Potato Chip Frittata sandwich sounds weird but works beautifully—fluffy eggs, crispy chips, and sharp cheddar creating a textural masterpiece.
They also rotate seasonal specials and always have a solid vegetarian option. The shop itself is small and gets packed during lunch, but the line moves quickly.
You can also grab artisanal pantry staples, craft sodas, and local snacks. The staff knows their stuff and can guide you toward your perfect sandwich.
It’s pricier than your average bodega, but the quality justifies every dollar.
8. Punjabi Deli — East Village
Open 24 hours and serving some of the cheapest, most satisfying Indian food in Manhattan, Punjabi Deli at 114 East 1st Street is a late-night lifesaver and a daytime treasure. This tiny spot has been feeding hungry New Yorkers since 1997, and the steam trays of curries, rice, and breads have saved countless people from post-bar hunger.
For under ten bucks, you can get a massive platter piled with basmati rice, two or three different curries (maybe saag paneer, chana masala, and chicken curry), and a piece of naan or roti. The flavors are homestyle and comforting—not fancy, but deeply satisfying in the way only a home-cooked meal can be.
The space is microscopic, with maybe four seats total, so most people grab their food to go. The staff works tirelessly, ladling out portions with practiced speed.
It’s not about presentation here—it’s about feeding people real food at real prices. Whether you’re stumbling in at 3 a.m. or stopping by for lunch, Punjabi Deli delivers every single time.
9. Win Son Bakery — Williamsburg
Right next door to its popular restaurant sibling, Win Son Bakery at 159 Graham Avenue focuses on Taiwanese-American baked goods and breakfast sandwiches that have developed a serious following. The storefront is bright and minimalist, but the flavors are anything but subtle.
Their egg and cheese bao is a revelation—a fluffy steamed bun cradling a fried egg, melted American cheese, and a smear of scallion cream cheese. It’s like a bacon-egg-and-cheese went to Taiwan and came back transformed.
The pork chop sandwich is another winner, with a crispy, five-spice breaded cutlet that’s juicy and flavorful.
They also make incredible pastries, like the black sesame cookies and pineapple cakes that are buttery and not too sweet. The iced milk tea is the perfect accompaniment—strong, creamy, and just sweet enough.
Lines can get long on weekends, but the staff moves efficiently. Everything is made with care and attention to detail, and you can taste the love in every bite.
It’s modern, it’s delicious, and it’s become a Williamsburg essential.
10. Misi Grocery Counter — Williamsburg
While Misi the restaurant is known for its upscale pasta, the attached grocery counter at 329 Kent Avenue offers a more casual, accessible way to experience chef Missy Robbins’ magic. This little counter serves up fresh pasta, sandwiches, and provisions that you can take home or enjoy on the spot.
The porchetta sandwich is a thing of beauty—slices of herb-crusted roasted pork with crackling skin, broccoli rabe, and just enough jus to moisten the crusty bread. It’s rich, savory, and utterly satisfying.
They also sell fresh pasta to cook at home, along with house-made sauces that’ll make you look like a culinary genius.
The selection rotates based on what’s seasonal and what the kitchen feels like making. You might find arancini, focaccia, or special salads that change daily.
The space is small and often busy, especially on weekends when locals line up for their pasta fix. Prices reflect the quality—this isn’t cheap eats, but it’s a fraction of what you’d pay for a full meal at the restaurant next door.
It’s gourmet convenience done right.
11. Himalayan Yak — Jackson Heights
Jackson Heights is a global food destination, and Himalayan Yak at 72-20 Roosevelt Avenue brings the flavors of Nepal and Tibet to Queens in the most authentic way possible. The restaurant is small and humble, with prayer flags and Himalayan decor creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Their momos are the star attraction—delicate dumplings filled with either chicken, vegetable, or beef, served steamed or fried with a spicy tomato-based dipping sauce that has a serious kick. Each dumpling is hand-folded and bursting with juicy filling.
The thukpa, a Tibetan noodle soup, is perfect comfort food—rich broth, hand-pulled noodles, and your choice of protein creating a bowl that warms you to your core.
Don’t skip the tingmo, steamed Tibetan bread that’s soft and slightly sweet, perfect for sopping up curry sauces. The staff is friendly and happy to explain dishes if you’re unfamiliar with the cuisine.
Portions are generous, prices are affordable, and the flavors are bold and authentic. It’s a hidden gem that deserves way more attention.
12. Super Taste — Chinatown
Hand-pulled noodles made to order—that’s what Super Taste at 26 Eldridge Street does best. This no-frills spot has a window where you can watch the noodle master stretch and pull dough into impossibly long, perfectly chewy noodles right before your eyes.
It’s mesmerizing and delicious.
The menu is straightforward: choose your noodle style (hand-pulled, knife-cut, or rice noodles) and your soup or sauce. The spicy lamb noodle soup is a favorite—rich, aromatic broth filled with tender lamb, bok choy, and those incredible noodles that have just the right amount of chew.
The dry noodles with sesame paste are another winner, simple but packed with nutty, savory flavor.
Seating is limited and the space is cramped, but that’s part of the charm. You’re here for the noodles, not the ambiance.
Service is quick, prices are low, and the food is consistently excellent. Cash only, so come prepared.
It’s one of those spots where you order, eat, and immediately start planning your next visit because you’re already craving more.
13. Joe’s Steam Rice Roll — Chinatown
Specializing in Cantonese cheung fun, Joe’s Steam Rice Roll at 56 Mott Street serves up silky rice noodle rolls that are delicate, flavorful, and ridiculously affordable. This tiny takeout spot doesn’t have seating, but the line out the door tells you everything you need to know about the quality.
The rice rolls are made fresh throughout the day—thin sheets of steamed rice noodle wrapped around fillings like BBQ pork, shrimp, or beef, then drizzled with sweet soy sauce and sprinkled with sesame seeds and scallions. The texture is silky and smooth, and each bite delivers savory, slightly sweet perfection.
You can also get them plain or with crispy youtiao (fried dough) inside for added crunch.
Orders come in styrofoam containers, perfect for eating on a nearby bench or taking back to your hotel. Everything is under five bucks, making this one of the best deals in Chinatown.
The staff works at lightning speed, steaming and rolling with practiced efficiency. It’s simple, it’s delicious, and it’s the kind of food that makes you understand why people love this neighborhood so much.
14. Arepa Lady (Original Queens Location) — Jackson Heights
Maria Cano, known affectionately as the Arepa Lady, started selling arepas from a street cart in Jackson Heights over twenty years ago and became a legend. Now she operates from a small storefront at 77-17 37th Avenue, but the arepas are just as incredible as they were back in the cart days.
These aren’t your typical arepas—they’re thick, griddled until crispy on the outside, and stuffed with generous amounts of melted cheese, sweet plantains, or savory meats. The arepa with cheese and chorizo is a personal favorite—the salty, spicy sausage paired with gooey cheese inside a crispy corn cake is pure comfort.
The sweet corn flavor of the arepa itself shines through, providing the perfect base for the fillings.
Maria and her family run the spot with warmth and pride, and you can taste the care in every bite. It’s cash only, and there are just a few seats, but most people grab their arepas to go.
Prices are incredibly reasonable for the quality and portion size. This is Queens at its finest—immigrant entrepreneurship creating food that brings joy to thousands.
15. Defonte’s Sandwich Shop — Red Hook
Operating since 1922, Defonte’s at 379 Columbia Street in Red Hook is a Brooklyn institution that’s been making killer Italian sandwiches for over a century. The shop is small and old-school, with vintage signs and a no-nonsense vibe that lets the food do all the talking.
Their sandwiches are massive, overstuffed creations that require two hands and a serious appetite. The classic Italian with prosciutto, capicola, fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers, and balsamic is a masterpiece—each ingredient perfectly balanced, layered on fresh bread that’s crusty outside and soft inside.
The meatball parm is another legend, with homemade meatballs that are tender and flavorful, smothered in tangy marinara and melted cheese.
The staff has been there forever and knows exactly what they’re doing, slicing meat paper-thin and assembling sandwiches with practiced precision. Red Hook isn’t the easiest neighborhood to get to, but Defonte’s is worth the trek.
It’s a taste of old Brooklyn, when neighborhoods were tight-knit and the corner sandwich shop was the heart of the community. Cash is preferred.
16. Little Poland — East Village
Craving pierogi at 2 a.m.? Little Poland at 200 Second Avenue has you covered.
This 24-hour Polish diner and market has been serving Eastern European comfort food to the East Village since 1976, and it’s remained refreshingly unchanged in a neighborhood that’s transformed around it.
The pierogi are the main attraction—pillowy dumplings filled with potato and cheese, sauerkraut and mushroom, or meat, pan-fried until golden and served with sour cream and caramelized onions. They’re simple, satisfying, and taste like someone’s Polish grandmother made them with love.
The kielbasa platter is another solid choice, with smoky sausage, sauerkraut, and mashed potatoes creating a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meal.
The space is bright and basic, with fluorescent lighting and minimal decor. It’s not about atmosphere—it’s about feeding people real food at any hour.
The market section sells Polish groceries, imported candies, and baked goods if you want to take something home. Prices are reasonable, portions are generous, and the staff is friendly.
It’s a neighborhood treasure that deserves your attention.
17. John’s Deli — Brooklyn
Nestled in the heart of Prospect Heights at 408 Eighth Avenue, John’s Deli has been a neighborhood staple for decades, serving up massive sandwiches that have earned a devoted following. The shop is tiny, with barely enough room for a few customers to wait, but the sandwiches are anything but small.
The roast beef and turkey combos are legendary—piled high with fresh-sliced meat, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and your choice of cheese and condiments on fresh rolls or hero bread. They don’t skimp on portions, and every sandwich is made with care and attention.
The breakfast sandwiches are equally impressive, with fluffy eggs, crispy bacon, and melted cheese creating the perfect morning meal.
What sets John’s apart is the consistency and the personal touch. The owners know their regulars by name and remember their orders.
Prices are fair, especially considering the quality and quantity you’re getting. It’s the kind of neighborhood deli that makes you feel at home, where a simple sandwich becomes something special because of the people making it and the community surrounding it.
Cash and cards accepted.