15+ Hole-in-the-Wall Spots in NYC Locals Swear By

Julie Anne L.
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NYC’s best spots aren’t always flashy. Sometimes, the hidden gems are tucked away in plain sight—small, no-frills places where locals go for that perfect bite. These hole-in-the-wall spots in NYC may not have neon signs or long lines, but they’ve got flavor that’ll make you forget about the big chains. So, if you’re the type who loves discovering the city’s best-kept secrets, these are the spots you’ll want to hit.

Hole-in-the-Wall Spots in NYC You Need to Try Now

Mamoun’s Falafel

Photo via @mamounsfalafel / Instagram

Since 1971, this narrow Greenwich Village spot has been serving falafel, shawarma, and kebabs to hungry New Yorkers. The counter is small, the menu is simple, but the flavors are deep — warm pita, crisp falafel, and spices that make every bite stand out. It’s the kind of place where you grab your order, find a bench outside, and people-watch while you eat.

Saigon Shack

Photo via saigonshack.com

On a busy block near NYU, this Vietnamese shop serves steaming bowls of pho, fresh banh mi, and noodle plates. The space is tight, but you’ll forget that once you’re leaning over a hot bowl of broth. Students, locals, and even tourists squeeze in for a quick, flavorful meal that feels like a neighborhood secret.

  • Price: $$
  • Cuisine: Vietnamese
  • Website: www.saigonshack.com 
  • Location: 114 MacDougal St, New York
  • Phone: 1 212-228-0588

Gray’s Papaya

Photo via @grayspapayanyc / Instagram

Famous for its no-frills setup and late-night hours, Gray’s Papaya is a legend for quick hot dogs and tropical drinks. The snappy-skinned beef dogs come loaded with sauerkraut, onions, and mustard, all tucked in a soft bun. It’s the kind of spot you stop at after a night out or while rushing to catch the subway.

Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop

A Greenpoint institution for over 60 years, this old-school bakery is all about fresh donuts, classic pastries, and thick milkshakes. Step inside and you’ll see counter stools, glass cases full of sweets, and a line of locals who know exactly what they want.

Corner Bistro

Photo via @cornerbistrony and @jpegsbyjosh / Instagram

In West Greenwich Village, this no-fuss pub serves one of the city’s best old-school burgers on paper plates. The wood-paneled walls and casual vibe make it feel like it hasn’t changed in decades — and that’s the point.

Katz’s Delicatessen

Serving massive pastrami sandwiches since 1888, Katz’s is loud, crowded, and worth every minute of the wait. The meat is hand-carved right in front of you, and the sandwiches are big enough to share — though most people don’t.

Los Tacos No. 1

Photo via @lostacos1 / Instagram

A busy counter with standing tables, this spot brings real-deal Mexican tacos to Chelsea Market. The tortillas are fresh, the fillings are juicy, and the salsas pack just the right amount of heat.

Artichoke Basille’s Pizza

Photo via @artichokepizza / Instagram

Known for its creamy, cheesy artichoke slice, this counter-service shop keeps the line moving late into the night. It’s rich, heavy, and exactly the kind of comfort food you want at 1 a.m.

Veselka

Open 24/7, this East Village Ukrainian diner serves pierogi, borscht, and hearty plates of goulash. It started as a small newsstand in 1954 and has grown into a community staple without losing its neighborhood feel.

  • Price: $$
  • Cuisine: Ukrainian
  • Website: https://veselka.com 
  • Location: 144 2nd Ave, New York
  • Phone: 1 212-228-9682

B&H Dairy

Photo via @bandhdairy / Instagram

A narrow kosher diner in the East Village, B&H has been serving matzo ball soup, blintzes, and challah bread since 1938. There’s only a small counter and a few booths, so expect to sit close to your neighbors.

Menkoi Sato

Photo via @menkoisato_nyc_v3 / Instagram

This tiny West Village ramen shop is easy to miss, but locals know it for its springy noodles and flavorful broth. On cold days, the miso ramen here is pure comfort.

Wangs

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♬ Food – Densky9

This Brooklyn spot blends Korean flavors with Southern fried chicken. The wings are huge, the sides are filling, and the whole menu feels like it was made for sharing.

Margon

Photo via @shotographys / Instagram

Just steps from Times Square, this Cuban lunch counter serves pressed sandwiches, rice plates, and beef stew. It’s quick, filling, and perfect when you want real food without the tourist prices.

Tokuyamatcha & Onigirazu Bar

Photo via @tokuyamatcha / Instagram

In the East Village, this small shop makes Japanese rice ball sandwiches and serves high-quality matcha. It’s a peaceful stop in a busy neighborhood, ideal for a light lunch or snack.

Rice Kitchen

Photo via @ricekitchensoho / Instagram

This SoHo spot focuses on Korean comfort dishes like kimbap rolls, rice bowls, and tofu bites. Everything is made to order, and the flavors are clean, fresh, and balanced.

  • Price: $$
  • Cuisine: Korean
  • Website: www.ricekitchensoho.com 
  • Location: 204 Spring St, New York
  • Phone: 1 646-609-2970

The Sandwich Board

Photo via @thesandwichboardnyc / Instagram

The Sandwich Board – Known for its Asian-inspired sandwiches, this Lower Manhattan shop builds them on bolo bao, or pineapple buns. Each one is packed with fresh ingredients and house-made sauces, making them stand out in the city’s crowded sandwich scene.

  • Price: $$
  • Website: www.thesandwichboard.co 
  • Location: 115 Eldridge St Storefront A, New York
  • Phone: 1 646-422-7592

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