Check out our new video series!
A photo of a man pointing to italian food
When you look at a piece of food, it’s more than just the end product of a chef's recipe. It is, in reality, the culmination of hundreds of years of culinary innovation. Each bite is a chapter in a story of exploration, innovation, conflict, and harmony. The simple slice of pizza, the creamy cheesecake, the aromatic soup dumplings - each carries a legacy of its own.
In our enthralling new series "Origin Stories," we take you on a journey through time and taste to explore the fascinating backstories behind the city’s most popular dishes. We'll delve deep into how these dishes evolved and why they appear the way they do today. And, we’ll even tell you the best hidden gem places to eat them.
Consider the iconic New York Pizza slice, with its crisp crust and melting cheese. This beloved dish has intriguing ties to South America, particularly in its tomato sauce. And then there's the classic New York cheesecake, a dessert with roots stretching back to ancient Greece, transformed by centuries of culinary craftsmanship.
Our exploration doesn't stop at these well-known dishes. We'll wander through the flavors of Chinatown, where traditional soup dumplings offer a taste of Chinese culinary heritage, and dim sum showcases a variety of bite-sized delights. The story of these dishes is interwoven with tales of migration and cultural exchange.
Jewish cuisine in New York is another fascinating chapter. From bagels to brisket, these dishes are a testament to the rich Jewish heritage and its enduring impact on the city’s food scene. We'll uncover how traditional Jewish foods have been adapted and embraced in the melting pot of New York.
But the culinary tapestry of New York is even more diverse. In the streets of Little Italy, Italian food tells a story of immigration and adaptation, where classic recipes meet New York’s dynamic culinary scene. And beyond the well-trodden paths, the city is dotted with hidden gems – small eateries and street vendors offering a taste of NYC’s multifaceted food culture.
As we reveal the history behind these dishes, we aim to connect you with the rich, layered story of New York’s food. From the South American origins of the humble tomato in your pizza sauce to the ancient Greek beginnings of the creamy cheesecake, and from the bustling streets of Chinatown to the warm, inviting bakeries of the Jewish community, every dish has a story.
Follow along as we tell these Origin Stories. Throughout the series, you will discover not just the flavors of New York’s food but also the historical currents that shaped them. Each episode promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of the food on your plate.
Follow us on Instagram and TikTok so you don’t miss an episode and share these fascinating stories with your friends. As we explore the past, we invite you to savor the present - each dish a delicious morsel of history.
