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Category - Food & Drink

Exterior of the Phoenicia Diner in summer with four motorcycles parked out front in the Catskills region of New York

New York State’s culinary scene is unlike any other, home to everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy small-town diners, many of which have made their way onto the big screen! Stop for a cupcake at Magnolia Bakery, the spot where Carrie tells Miranda about her new crush in Sex and the City, or head to the Phoenicia Diner (pictured), better known to Severance fans as Pib’s Pub and Grille. Whether you’re a foodie, film buff, or both, check out this set-jetting guide to New York’s coolest restaurants featured in TV and film.

A container of sirloin tips and mashed potatoes next to a plastic up with the Great New York State Fair logo.

If you haven't given much thought to state fairs since the days where you could slam down multiple chili cheese dogs and funnel cakes with zero remorse, we get it. But with the Great New York State Fair (August 26-September 7, 2026), it's as good a time as any for a gentle reminder of what you've been missing since then.

Bottles and glasses of cider sit on a table with a back drop of the Catskill Mountains

The secret ingredient to well-crafted cider is delicious apples and New York has some of the greatest (there’s a reason we’re called the Big Apple!). In fact, New York is the largest producer of hard cider in the country and the second-largest apple-producing state. With more than 40 different apple varieties, 600 growers, and hundreds of world-class cideries, this is the place to be for award-winning cider. From the Hudson Valley’s fast-growing cideries and photogenic orchards to the Finger Lakes’ unique terroir and lakeside views, sip back, relax, take in the apple-scented atmosphere, and enjoy a crisp glass of New York cider. Here’s everything you need to know about exploring Empire State apple country.

Defazio’s pizza

The only activity that’s more quintessentially New York than eating pizza is hunting down the best pies. We've got the crunchiest, cheesiest, freshest options from all over the state, from beloved slices in Brooklyn to cup-and-char pepperoni in Buffalo.

Dozens of Nathan's Famous hot dogs arranged on a platter ahead of the famed eating contest in Coney Island

Hot dog, frank, wiener, Coney, red hot, white hot– whatever you call them, New York State has the best hot dog variations you’ll ever meat. Trek to the countryside mountains of Plattsburgh to indulge in the history of the “Michigan” or venture downstate to enjoy a Nathan’s Famous as you walk the boardwalk on Coney Island. No matter what part of New York you’re in, these spots will “make you want a hot dog real bad.” (Thanks, Jennifer Coolidge) 

A glass of West Kill Brewing beer with a view of the mountains in the Catskills

Not only can you drink New York’s beloved beers at its acclaimed breweries, you can also find beautiful beer gardens and unique spots across every region

A wooden slab serving tray holds six small glasses of different beers, forming a flight. The glasses contain various shades of amber and dark liquid, each topped with a white foam head.

New York State has officially declared April 11th as “New York Craft Beer Day," making it the perfect time to grab a pint at one of the state's more than 500 independent craft breweries and buy a commemorative 2026 New York Craft Beer Day Collector's Glass from participating spots while supply lasts. 

Three scoops of vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate on a sprinkle waffle cone

We all scream for ice cream—and New York State, where the ice cream sundae was invented, has some of the very best.

Vineyard rows
Credit: @caicedojp on Instagram

One way to see the diverse landscapes of New York State is by visiting its wineries. Some are nestled into sloping lakeshores while others are tucked into the woods, or

A table set with breakfast items include pancakes, waffles, and eggs benedict at Shirley's Diner in Saratoga Springs

Looking to save a few bucks on your next family getaway? Make dining out more affordable at local New York State restaurants offering kids eat free deals.