Satisfy Your Cravings: Discover the Top Spots for the Best French Fries in NYC
Discover the top spots for golden, crispy and delicious French fries in NYC! From classic to gourmet, satisfy your cravings with our guide.
When it comes to finding the best French fries in New York City, there are plenty of options to choose from. From classic fast-food chains to trendy bistro-style eateries, the city is full of places that serve up crispy, golden fries that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. But with so many options available, how can you be sure you're getting the very best? In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top contenders for the title of the best French fries in NYC, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
First up on our list is Shake Shack, a popular fast-food chain that has become synonymous with delicious burgers and fries. Their crinkle-cut fries are cooked to perfection and served with a side of cheese sauce or ketchup for dipping. The fries are made from fresh Yukon Gold potatoes and are cooked twice for maximum crispiness. If you're looking for a classic fast-food fry that hits all the right notes, Shake Shack is definitely worth a visit.
If you're in the mood for something a little more upscale, head over to Balthazar, a chic French brasserie in SoHo that offers some of the best pommes frites in the city. The fries are thin and crispy, perfectly salted, and served with a side of garlic aioli for dipping. The atmosphere at Balthazar is elegant and sophisticated, making it the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a special occasion.
For those who prefer their fries with a twist, the Spicy Kimchi Fries at Korilla BBQ are a must-try. This Korean-inspired food truck serves up fries topped with tangy kimchi, spicy gochujang sauce, and your choice of protein (we recommend the bulgogi beef). The combination of flavors and textures is truly unique, and the fries are sure to leave you feeling satisfied.
Another great option for those who like a little heat with their fries is Pommes Frites in the East Village. This tiny shop specializes in Belgian-style fries that are cooked twice and served with a variety of dipping sauces, including the popular War Fries topped with peanut satay sauce, onions, and mayo. The fries here are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the sauces are all made in-house using fresh ingredients.
If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten-path option, head over to Pommes Soufflées, a hidden gem located inside the French Institute Alliance Française on the Upper East Side. Here, you'll find some of the most unique and delicious French fries in the city, made using a special technique that involves frying the potatoes twice at different temperatures to create a light, airy texture. The fries are served with a side of truffle mayo for dipping, making for an indulgent and satisfying snack.
No list of the best French fries in NYC would be complete without a mention of Five Guys, another popular fast-food chain that has gained a loyal following for its delicious burgers and fries. The fries here are hand-cut and cooked in peanut oil, giving them a distinctive flavor that sets them apart from other fast-food options. Plus, with unlimited free toppings, you can customize your fries exactly to your liking.
If you're in the mood for something a little more experimental, head over to The Bao Shoppe in Chinatown, where you'll find fries topped with Taiwanese-style popcorn chicken, scallions, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo. The combination of salty, crispy fries and tender, flavorful chicken is a match made in heaven, and the spicy mayo adds just the right amount of kick.
For those who prefer their fries with a side of history, head over to McSorley's Old Ale House in the East Village. This iconic bar has been serving up its famous cheese and onion fries since 1854, making it one of the oldest continuously operating bars in the city. The fries are simple but delicious, and the atmosphere at McSorley's is full of old-world charm.
If you're looking for a healthier option, head over to Sweetgreen, a popular salad chain that offers delicious sweet potato fries as a side option. These fries are baked instead of fried, making them a guilt-free indulgence that still packs plenty of flavor. Plus, with a variety of tasty dipping sauces to choose from, there's no need to sacrifice taste for health.
Finally, for those who like their fries with a side of nostalgia, head over to Nathan's Famous on Coney Island. This iconic hot dog stand has been serving up its famous crinkle-cut fries since 1916, and they're just as delicious today as they were back then. The fries are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and they pair perfectly with a Nathan's Famous hot dog.
In conclusion, whether you're in the mood for classic fast-food fries or something a little more adventurous, there's no shortage of options when it comes to finding the best French fries in NYC. From trendy food trucks to iconic bars and restaurants, the city is full of places that serve up delicious, satisfying fries that are sure to please even the most discerning palate. So why not grab a friend and embark on a French fry tasting tour of the city? Your taste buds will thank you.
Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, French fries rank high on the list. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and served with a variety of dipping sauces, fries make for a perfect snack or side dish. New York City is known for its diverse food culture, and French fries are no exception. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best French fries in NYC that you must try.The Spotted Pig
The Spotted Pig, located in the West Village, is known for its famous shoestring fries. These thin and crispy fries are served in a ceramic cup and are seasoned with rosemary and garlic. The perfect accompaniment to their delicious burgers, these fries have a cult following among New Yorkers.Pommes Frites
Pommes Frites is a small Belgian fry shop located in the East Village that serves up some of the best fries in the city. They offer over 30 dipping sauces to choose from, including truffle mayo, Irish curry ketchup, and peanut satay sauce. Their fries are thick cut and twice fried, giving them a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.J.G. Melon
J.G. Melon is a classic American restaurant located on the Upper East Side that has been serving up burgers and fries since 1972. Their fries are thick and crispy, with just the right amount of salt. They are the perfect side dish to their famous burger, which has been hailed as one of the best in the city.Shake Shack
Shake Shack is a popular fast-food chain that originated in NYC and has since expanded all over the world. Their crinkle-cut fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and are served with their signature cheese sauce. You can also opt for their cheese fries, which are topped with their famous cheese sauce and chopped cherry peppers.Bar Sardine
Bar Sardine is a cozy bar in the West Village that serves up some of the best bar food in the city. Their fries are thin and crispy, and are served with a side of smoked paprika aioli. They also offer a variety of other dipping sauces, including truffle mayo and curry ketchup.Taverna Kyclades
Taverna Kyclades is a Greek restaurant located in Astoria that is known for their delicious seafood dishes. However, their fries are also a standout dish. They are thick cut and crispy, and are seasoned with oregano and sea salt. They are the perfect side dish to their grilled octopus or whole fish.Emily
Emily is a pizza restaurant located in Brooklyn that is known for their wood-fired pizzas. However, their fries are not to be missed. They are thick cut and crispy, and are served with a side of garlic aioli. They are the perfect snack to accompany their delicious pizza pies.The Breslin
The Breslin is an upscale gastropub located in the Ace Hotel that serves up some of the best British pub food in the city. Their fries are thick cut and crispy, and are served with a side of malt vinegar aioli. They are the perfect side dish to their hearty English breakfast or their famous lamb burger.Superiority Burger
Superiority Burger is a vegetarian fast-food restaurant located in the East Village that serves up some of the best plant-based burgers and fries in the city. Their fries are thin and crispy, and are seasoned with a blend of spices. They are the perfect side dish to their famous vegetarian burger, which has been hailed as one of the best in the city.Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City offers a diverse range of French fries that are not to be missed. From shoestring fries at The Spotted Pig to thick cut fries at J.G. Melon, there is something for every fry lover in the city. So next time you're craving some delicious fries, be sure to check out one of these amazing spots.The Perfect Crunch: Top Spots for Crispy French Fries in NYCThere's just something about a perfectly crispy, golden french fry that hits the spot like nothing else. Whether you like them skinny or thick-cut, straight or curly, salted or seasoned, there are plenty of places in New York City that serve up some seriously delicious fries. Here are some of the top spots to get your crunch on.
Pommes Frites
If you're looking for the ultimate fry experience, look no further than Pommes Frites. This beloved East Village institution has been serving up Belgian-style fries since 1997, and they've got the recipe down to a science. The fries are twice-fried to achieve the perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior, and they come with your choice of more than 30 different dipping sauces. From classic ketchup and mayo to more exotic options like curry ketchup and mango chutney, there's a sauce for every taste. And if you're feeling really adventurous, you can even try the poutine, a Canadian delicacy made with fries, cheese curds, and gravy.Shake Shack
No list of NYC fries would be complete without mentioning Shake Shack. This fast-casual burger chain has become a national sensation, and their crinkle-cut fries are a big part of the reason why. These fries are thin and crispy, with just the right amount of salt, and they're the perfect pairing for one of Shake Shack's juicy burgers. But what really sets Shake Shack apart is their signature cheese sauce, which you can add to your fries for a gooey, indulgent treat.Five Guys
If you're looking for a more traditional fry experience, Five Guys is the place to go. This fast-food chain is known for its no-frills burgers and fries, but don't let the simplicity fool you – these fries are seriously good. They're made from fresh potatoes that are hand-cut on-site, and they're cooked in pure peanut oil for a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. And because Five Guys is all about customization, you can top your fries with everything from cheese and bacon to jalapenos and A1 sauce.The Classic Choice: Deliciously Simple French Fries in the Big AppleSometimes, you just want a classic fry experience without any fancy bells and whistles. If that's the case, these spots in NYC have got you covered.Corner Bistro
This West Village institution has been serving up no-frills burgers and fries since 1961, and they've perfected the art of simplicity. The fries here are thin and crispy, with just the right amount of salt, and they're the perfect complement to one of Corner Bistro's famous burgers. And because this spot is open until 4am every night, it's the perfect place to satisfy your late-night fry cravings.J.G. Melon
Another classic spot for burgers and fries, J.G. Melon has been a fixture on the Upper East Side for decades. The fries here are thick-cut and crispy, with a fluffy interior that's perfect for soaking up ketchup. And because J.G. Melon's burgers are so juicy, you'll definitely want to get a side of fries to balance out all that meaty goodness.Joe's Pizza
If you're in the mood for a slice of New York-style pizza and some classic fries, Joe's Pizza is the place to go. This Greenwich Village institution has been serving up some of the city's best pizza since 1975, and their fries are nothing to scoff at either. They're thin and crispy, with just the right amount of salt, and they're the perfect sidekick to one of Joe's iconic slices.The Ultimate Indulgence: Gourmet French Fries That’ll Make Your Mouth WaterFor those times when you're feeling extra fancy, these spots in NYC have got you covered with some seriously gourmet fry options.The Breslin
This gastropub inside the Ace Hotel is known for its upscale takes on classic pub fare, and their fries are no exception. The Breslin's fries are thick-cut and crispy, with a fluffy interior that's perfect for dipping in their house-made aioli. But what really sets these fries apart are the toppings – you can choose from options like duck fat fries with garlic and rosemary, or poutine-style fries with gravy and cheese curds.The Smith
This popular American brasserie has locations all over the city, and their truffle fries are a must-try. These thin-cut fries are tossed in truffle oil and Parmesan cheese, giving them a rich, decadent flavor that'll make your taste buds sing. And because The Smith's menu is so extensive, you can pair your fries with everything from steak to seafood to pasta.Burger & Lobster
As the name suggests, this trendy spot in Flatiron specializes in burgers and lobster, but their fries are worth a trip on their own. The fries here are skinny and crispy, with just the right amount of salt, and they come with a side of warm, creamy cheese sauce for dipping. But if you're feeling really indulgent, you can opt for the lobster fries, which are topped with chunks of fresh lobster meat and drizzled with a rich, buttery sauce.The Unexpected Twist: Creative Takes on French Fries in NYCFor those times when you're feeling a little adventurous, these spots in NYC are serving up some seriously creative takes on the classic fry.Empellon
If you're a fan of Mexican food, you'll love the fries at Empellon. These thin-cut fries are seasoned with chile powder and lime, giving them a spicy, tangy kick that'll wake up your taste buds. And because this upscale Mexican restaurant is known for its inventive cocktails, you'll definitely want to pair your fries with one of their signature drinks.Cafeteria
This Chelsea hotspot is known for its eclectic menu and funky decor, and their fries are no exception. The sweet potato fries here are thick-cut and crispy, with a hint of cinnamon sugar that gives them a sweet and savory flavor. And if you're feeling really daring, you can try the disco fries, which are topped with gravy and melted cheese for a messy, delicious treat.Pommes Frites (Again!)
Yes, we already mentioned Pommes Frites, but this spot deserves another shout-out for its creative fry options. In addition to their classic Belgian-style fries, they also offer a variety of specialty fries with toppings like pulled pork, blue cheese, and even s'mores. And because the fries are so good on their own, you can mix and match toppings to create your own custom creation.The Healthier Option: Tasty Baked French Fries to Satisfy Your CravingsIf you're trying to eat healthier but still need your fry fix, these spots in NYC have got you covered with some delicious baked fry options.Bareburger
This popular chain of organic burger joints offers a variety of healthy fry options made from baked sweet potatoes, zucchini, and more. The sweet potato fries here are particularly delicious, with a crispy exterior and a soft, sweet interior that's packed with nutrients. And because Bareburger is all about sustainability, you can feel good about eating here knowing that your food is ethically sourced.Westville
This beloved brunch spot has locations all over the city, and their baked fries are a must-try. These thick-cut fries are made from Yukon Gold potatoes and baked to perfection, with just the right amount of seasoning to bring out their natural flavor. And because Westville is known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients, you can feel good about indulging in some fries while still sticking to your healthy eating goals.By Chloe
This vegan fast-casual chain specializes in plant-based versions of classic fast food, including fries. The air-baked sweet potato fries here are seasoned with smoked paprika and sea salt, giving them a smoky, savory flavor that's hard to resist. And because By Chloe is all about promoting healthy, sustainable eating, you can feel good about indulging in some guilt-free fries here.The Worldly Flavor: International-Inspired French Fries in New York CityIf you're in the mood for some global flavors, these spots in NYC are serving up some seriously delicious international-inspired fry options.Belgian Beer Cafe
As the name suggests, this Midtown East spot specializes in all things Belgian, including their fries. These thick-cut fries are twice-fried in beef fat for a crispy exterior and fluffy interior, and they're served with a side of tangy mayo for dipping. And because Belgian Beer Cafe is known for its extensive beer selection, you can wash down your fries with a cold, refreshing brew.Toloache
This upscale Mexican restaurant in Midtown offers a unique take on fries with their yucca fries. Yucca is a starchy root vegetable that's commonly used in Latin American cuisine, and these fries are thick-cut and crispy with a fluffy interior. They're served with a side of spicy mayo for dipping, giving them a slightly exotic flavor that'll transport you south of the border.Baohaus
This trendy Taiwanese restaurant in the East Village offers some seriously delicious fries with a twist. Their Chairman Bao Fries are thick-cut and crispy, and they're topped with a generous helping of pork belly chunks, scallions, and a sweet hoisin sauce. The result is a fusion of flavors that's both savory and sweet, with a satisfying crunch in every bite.The Finger-Lickin’ Goodness: Best Dipping Sauces to Pair with Fries in NYCLet's face it – fries are only as good as the dipping sauces that come with them. These spots in NYC are serving up some seriously delicious sauces to take your fry game to the next level.Pommes Frites
We've already mentioned Pommes Frites a few times on this list, but their dipping sauces are so good they deserve another shout-out. With more than 30 different options to choose from, there's a sauce for every taste. Some of the most popular include the classic Belgian mayo, the creamy garlic aioli, and the tangy mango chutney.Burger Joint
This hidden gem inside the Parker New York hotel is known for its juicy burgers and crispy fries, but what really sets it apart are the dipping sauces. The truffle mayo is a must-try, with its rich, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the fries. But if you're feeling more adventurous, you can also try the curry ketchup or the jalapeno mayo for a spicy kick.Shake Shack
As we mentioned earlier, Shake Shack's cheese sauce is a game-changer when it comes to fries. But if you're not in the mood for cheese, they also offer a variety of other sauces that are worth trying. The ShackSauce, a tangy blend of ketchup, mayo, and spices, is a fan favorite, as is the barbecue sauce, which has a smoky, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the fries.The Perfect Sidekick: French Fries That Complement Your Burger or SandwichWhen it comes to burgers and sandwiches, the fries are just as important as the main event. These spots in NYC are serving up some seriously delicious fries that'll make the perfect sidekick to your meal.Black Tap
This popular burger joint is known for its over-the-top milkshakes, but their fries are worth a trip on their own. The thin-cut fries here are crispy and salty, with just the right amount of seasoning to bring out their natural flavor. And because Black Tap's burgers are so juicy and flavorful, you'll definitely want to get a side of fries to balance out all that meaty goodness.The Meatball Shop
As the name suggests, this popular chain of restaurants specializes in all things meatballs, but their fries are equally delicious. The fries here are thick-cut and crispy, with a fluffy interior that's perfect for dipping in ketchup. And because The Meatball Shop offers a variety of different meatball options, you can customize your meal to create the perfect pairing with your fries.Hillstone
This upscale steakhouse in Midtown offers some seriously delicious fries that are the perfect complement to any burger or sandwich. The shoestring fries here are skinny and crispy, with just the right amount of salt, and they come with a side of creamy horseradish sauce for dipping. And because Hillstone's menu is so extensive, you can pair your fries with everything from a classic cheeseburger to a grilled chicken sandwich.The Vegan-Friendly Pick: Delicious Plant-Based Fries in NYCJust because you're vegan doesn't mean you have to miss out on all the fry fun. These spots in NYC are serving up some seriously delicious plant-based fry options.Superiority Burger
This tiny East Village spot is known for its vegan burgers and sandwiches, but their fries are just as delicious. The shoestring fries here are thin and crispy, with just the right amount of salt, and they're the perfect complement to one of Superiority Burger's flavorful veggie burgers. And because everything on the menu here is vegan, you can indulge in some guilt-free fry action.Champs Diner
This vegan diner in Brooklyn offers a variety of fry options made from plant-based ingredients like sweet potatoes and yucca. The sweet potato fries here are particularly delicious, with a crispy exterior and a soft, sweet interior that's hard to resist. And because Champs Diner is all about indulging in vegan comfort food, you can feel good about satisfying your fry cravings here.By Chloe (Again!)
As we mentioned earlier, By Chloe is a vegan fast-casual chain that specializes in plant-based versions of classic fast food, including fries. In addition to their air-baked sweet potato fries, they also offer regular fries andBest French Fries in NYC: A Point of View
Pros and Cons of the Best French Fries in NYC
When it comes to finding the best French fries in NYC, there are a lot of options to choose from. Here are some of the pros and cons of some of the most popular spots:Shake Shack
Pros:
- Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside
- Perfectly salted
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces
Cons:
- Can be greasy
- Lines can get very long
- Pricey compared to other fast food options
McDonald's
Pros:
- Consistent taste
- Widely available
- Good value for the price
Cons:
- Not as crispy as some other options
- Can be overly salty
- Not the healthiest option
Pommes Frites
Pros:
- Wide variety of sauces to choose from
- Thick-cut fries that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Their small shop can get crowded
- May take longer to prepare than other options
- Some people may not enjoy the thicker cut of the fries
Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Shake Shack | Crispy, well-salted fries with a variety of dipping sauces | Can be greasy, long lines, pricey compared to other fast food options |
| McDonald's | Consistent taste, widely available, good value for the price | Not as crispy as other options, overly salty, not the healthiest option |
| Pommes Frites | Wide variety of sauces, thick-cut fries that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, reasonably priced | Small shop can get crowded, may take longer to prepare, some people may not enjoy the thicker cut of the fries |
The Best French Fries in NYC: A Guide for Potato Lovers
Thank you for stopping by and reading our guide on the best French fries in NYC! We hope this article has provided you with some insight into where to find the most delicious and crispy fries in the city that never sleeps.
As we explored the various spots around town, we couldn't help but notice the diversity in style, flavors and presentation of French fries. From classic Belgian-style frites to loaded cheese fries and truffle oil fries, there is truly something for everyone in this city.
One of our top picks for French fries is Pommes Frites in the East Village. This iconic spot has been serving up crispy, twice-fried Belgian-style fries since 1997. You can choose from a variety of dipping sauces, including classic ketchup and mayo-based sauces like chipotle aioli and pesto mayo.
If you're looking for something a bit more indulgent, head over to Shake Shack. Their crinkle-cut fries are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them the perfect vessel for their famous cheese sauce. If you're feeling adventurous, try the SmokeShack fries, which are topped with chopped cherry peppers, bacon and ShackSauce.
For those who love truffle and parmesan, we recommend heading over to the Truffleist at Smorgasburg. Their truffle fries are generously dusted with parmesan cheese and drizzled with white truffle oil, making them a decadent treat for any potato lover.
If you're in the mood for something a bit more unique, head over to Cafeteria in Chelsea. Their Disco Fries are a twist on the classic poutine, featuring crispy fries smothered in gravy and melted mozzarella cheese. It's the perfect late-night snack after a night out on the town.
Another top pick for French fries is Corner Bistro in the West Village. Their fries are crispy and golden brown, making them the perfect accompaniment to their famous burgers. Don't forget to order a side of their homemade aioli for dipping!
If you're looking for a healthier option, head over to Sweetgreen. Their seasonal menu features a variety of salads topped with crispy, oven-baked sweet potato fries. They're the perfect guilt-free indulgence!
For those who love loaded fries, we recommend heading over to Brooklyn's Emily. Their Pizza Fries are topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni and pickled chili peppers. It's like eating a pizza and fries all in one delicious bite!
Another spot for loaded fries is Clinton Hall. Their Waffle Fries are piled high with bacon, cheddar cheese sauce, scallions and sour cream. It's the ultimate comfort food indulgence!
For those who love classic boardwalk-style fries, head over to Nathan's Famous. Their fries are crispy and salty, just like you remember from your childhood visits to the Coney Island boardwalk. Don't forget to order a hot dog while you're there!
In conclusion, there is no shortage of delicious French fries in NYC. Whether you're in the mood for classic Belgian-style frites or indulgent loaded fries, there is truly something for everyone. We hope you enjoyed reading our guide and that it inspires you to go out and try some of the amazing French fries this city has to offer. Bon appétit!
People Also Ask About Best French Fries NYC
What Makes French Fries Great?
French fries are a popular snack all around the world. They have a crispy exterior and a soft interior, which makes them incredibly satisfying to eat. A great batch of french fries should be perfectly cooked, well-seasoned, and ideally served with a dipping sauce.
Where Can I Find the Best French Fries in NYC?
New York City is home to some of the best french fries in the world. Here are some of the top spots to try:
Shake Shack - Shake Shack's crinkle-cut fries are a fan favorite. They're crispy, salty, and perfectly seasoned.
Pommes Frites - Pommes Frites serves Belgian-style fries that are twice-fried for maximum crispiness. They offer a variety of dipping sauces to choose from, including curry ketchup and pesto mayo.
J.G. Melon - J.G. Melon's shoestring fries are thin and crispy, with just the right amount of salt. They're the perfect accompaniment to one of their famous burgers.
Burger Joint - Burger Joint's fries are thick and crispy, with a fluffy interior. They're seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, making them extra flavorful.
The Breslin - The Breslin's fries are seriously addictive. They're crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices.
What Are Some Tips for Making Great French Fries at Home?
If you want to make great french fries at home, here are a few tips:
Choose the right potato - Russet potatoes are the best choice for making french fries. They have a high starch content, which makes them crispy when fried.
Preheat your oil - Make sure your oil is hot before adding your fries. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from getting soggy.
Soak your potatoes - Soaking your potatoes in water before frying will remove excess starch and help them get crispy.
Season your fries - Don't forget to season your fries with salt and your favorite herbs and spices.
Use a thermometer - Use a thermometer to make sure your oil stays at a consistent temperature while frying.
With these tips, you can make restaurant-quality french fries right in your own kitchen!