Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in Long Island City
Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in Long Island City
1. Casa Enrique
A neighborhood institution elevating regional Mexican cooking with refined plates, seasonal specials, and a cozy dining room just off Vernon Boulevard.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a destination-worthy meal in Queens, pairing soulful sauces and meticulous technique with genuine, unpretentious hospitality.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights after 8 pm for shorter waits; weekend brunch for a leisurely feast without the dinner rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book ahead and don’t skip the mole and tres leches; ask staff to suggest a mezcal that complements your order.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers rave about complex flavors and consistent execution, noting that waits can be long during peak hours.
2. Adda Indian Canteen
A lively canteen serving robust, regionally inspired Indian dishes in an intimate space with an open kitchen and bold spice profiles.
✓ Why Go:
For food lovers who want Queens-level heat and depth—fragrant biryanis, rich dals, and craveable small plates.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday lunch or early dinner to avoid the heaviest evening crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a biryani and a slow-cooked black dal to share; specify your preferred spice level when you order.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans celebrate uncompromising flavors and value; some mention a noisy room and tight tables at peak times.
3. Levante
A stylish pizzeria and Italian aperitivo spot where blistered, wood-fired pies meet spritzes, salumi boards, and shareable antipasti.
✓ Why Go:
Perfect for a casual-chic night out with friends—great pizza, strong cocktails, and a buzzy room.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday happy hour for deals and easier seating; late evening for a lively vibe.
✓ Insider Tip:
Split a classic margherita and a spicy pie to sample the range; bar seats often turn over fastest.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Groups praise the balance of crisp crusts and thoughtful toppings; some find it noisy during prime time.
4. Fifth Hammer Brewing Co.
A community-driven brewery pouring rotating small-batch beers in a spacious taproom with frequent food pop-ups.
✓ Why Go:
Sample Queens-made IPAs, lagers, and sours, then pair them with bites from local vendors for a laid-back LIC evening.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend afternoons for a relaxed scene; weekday evenings for a more energetic crowd.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check their daily board for limited releases and follow their socials to see which pop-up is cooking.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the variety and friendly staff; occasional crowds mean standing room at peak hours.
5. LIC Beer Project
A graffiti-adorned warehouse taproom pouring hazy IPAs, saisons, and barrel projects that showcase Queens’ brewing chops.
✓ Why Go:
For serious beer enthusiasts seeking fresh pours and inventive styles without leaving the neighborhood.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Friday early evening for fresh lines; weekend afternoons for easier seating.
✓ Insider Tip:
Build a flight to explore; grab cans to-go for waterfront picnics later.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beer geeks praise the quality and consistency, though newbies may find some styles quite bold.
6. Big aLICe Brewing
A creative, small-batch brewery known for locally inspired saisons, sours, and stouts in a cozy LIC taproom.
✓ Why Go:
A great stop for experimental pours and friendly conversation with staff who love to talk beer.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Warm-weather evenings when the space opens up and nearby food trucks often appear.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a mixed flight to discover your style, then take a crowler for later.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests appreciate the neighborhood vibe and inventive flavors; seating can be limited at rush times.
7. Court Square Diner
A classic Queens diner plating hearty breakfasts, Greek favorites, and griddle fare in a retro setting near the Court Square hubs.
✓ Why Go:
Reliable, comfort-driven plates at nearly any hour—ideal before a morning stroll or after brewery hopping.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings or late nights to skip the midday rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Try the spanakopita or a patty melt; booths flip quickly even when the line looks long.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers praise generous portions and friendly service; coffee is basic but bottomless.
8. Maiella
An upscale Italian restaurant serving house-made pastas and wood-grilled dishes with sweeping Manhattan skyline views.
✓ Why Go:
For a celebratory meal on the LIC waterfront—great for date night, anniversaries, and out-of-town guests.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset for golden-hour views; weekday dinners are easier to book than weekends.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request a terrace table when reserving and leave room for dessert—the tiramisu is a favorite.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners love the view and pasta craftsmanship; prices are on the higher side for the setting.
9. Xi'an Famous Foods
Hand-pulled biang-biang noodles, cumin-spiked lamb, and chili-forward sauces at the LIC outpost of a beloved NYC staple.
✓ Why Go:
A fast, affordable counter-service option with big flavors—perfect between museum stops or before the ferry.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-afternoon to avoid lines; evenings move quickly for takeout.
✓ Insider Tip:
Choose your spice level wisely and add extra greens or cilantro for balance.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans gush over the chewy noodles and heat; seating is limited and utilitarian.
10. Cafe Henri
A low-key French bistro near the waterfront, known for crêpes, croques, and an intimate, candlelit atmosphere.
✓ Why Go:
A relaxed, charming spot for brunch or an unfussy French dinner in the heart of Hunters Point.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend mornings before noon for quicker seating; weekday evenings are calm and cozy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order one savory buckwheat crêpe and one sweet to share; patio seats go first in nice weather.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests highlight comforting classics and fair prices; service pace can be leisurely during busy periods.
