Photo: Carissa Gan

New York City is arguably one of the only places in the world where you can enjoy cuisines from nearly everywhere in the world without exiting city limits. As a cultural hub that oozes charm, sophistication and a variety of adventure within reach, offerings at NYC food spots are inspired by places near and far. From elegant sit-down dinners at Michelin Star restaurants to food carts that please every palate, there’s no shortage of options for dining in NYC.

Local foodies and visitors alike can’t resist these spots:

1. Famous Halal Guys on 53^rd & 6^th

An ideal destination for those exploring Midtown Manhattan, the Famous Halal Guys cart is in a prime spot for a quick, delicious lunch. If you’re heading there during the week, be sure to enjoy an early or late lunch so you can beat the lunch break rush.

Find Fresh Seafood & So Much More

2. Aquagrill

Few marriages are as perfect as the pairing of fine seafood and wine. Head to SoHo for inspired dishes and the best raw bar in Manhattan. With a history that stretches 20 years, Aquagrill is an institution in its own right.

3. Pok Pok NY

Skip the frills within the Columbus Street Waterfront District in Brooklyn at this spot for flavorful Thai cuisine. Although many dishes are meant to be eaten family style, the flavors are so good you’ll want to keep it all to yourself.

Find a Plate to Please Your Palate

4. Los Tacos No. 1

If there was ever a reason to trek all the way to 9^th Avenue, Los Tacos No. 1 is it. Nothing short of a little slice of true Mexican Culture and flavor, Los Tacos No. 1 is a truly welcome gift to the East Coast from three friends with roots in Tijuana and California.

5. Red Rooster

Named in honor of a legendary Harlem speakeasy, Chef Marcus Samuelsson brings inspiration to the roots of American Cuisine. Celebrating a rich culinary landscape in one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods, Red Rooster is a prime spot for feel-good food.

Having fun at Hops & Hocks on a Bushwick Beer, Bites & Street Art #InstaWalk

6. Hops & Hocks

Located in Bushwick, this small but delicious Brooklyn beer and charcuterie shop is heaven on Earth. Along with farmstead cheeses, quality meats, rotating draft beers, stellar cheese of the month and growler programs and beer and cheese-making kits, the store is a mecca to New York-made goodies. Peruse shelves of local hot honeys, organic sun popped popcorn, truffle salts, chocolate-covered corn nuts, made-from-scratch spreads and artisan treats crafted for a cause.

To savor a delicious meat and beer pairing experience — which can also be made vegan or alcohol-free upon request — sign up for a Bushwick Beer, Bites & Street Art #InstaWalk. The excursion also features a make-your-own cappuccino lesson and a raw chocolate tasting where you’ll learn to expertly savor cacao treats crafted under 140 degrees Fahrenheit to really get a sense of the terroir.