New York City, a melting pot of cultures, boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene. Within this exciting landscape, skewers stand out as a universally loved, easily portable, and incredibly flavorful food. Whether you're craving the smoky char of grilled meats, the vibrant freshness of seafood, or the exotic spice of international flavors, NYC has a skewer for you. This comprehensive guide explores 32 of the best places to experience the magic of skewers in the Big Apple. We'll explore various cuisines and price points, ensuring there's something for every palate and budget.
Exploring NYC's Diverse Skewer Scene: From Street Food to Fine Dining
New York City's skewer scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find everything from humble street food vendors offering cheap and cheerful yakitori to upscale restaurants showcasing meticulously crafted seafood skewers. This variety allows you to explore different cultures and culinary traditions through the simple yet elegant medium of the skewer.
Meat Lovers' Paradise:
- Yakitori Totto (Multiple Locations): Known for its authentic Japanese yakitori, Totto offers a wide selection of chicken skewers, each prepared with precision and care. Their signature negima (chicken and leek) is a must-try.
- Ippudo (Multiple Locations): While famous for ramen, Ippudo's yakitori selection is equally impressive. The skewers are expertly grilled, offering a balance of smoky char and juicy tenderness.
- Rubirosa (Nolita): This beloved pizzeria also offers a surprisingly excellent selection of grilled meats, including flavorful lamb and beef skewers.
- The Marshal (Midtown East): This gastropub provides a sophisticated take on classic pub fare, including high-quality grilled skewers.
- Lilia (Williamsburg): This acclaimed Italian restaurant offers beautifully prepared meat skewers, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Seafood Sensations:
- O Ya (Back Bay): While technically in Boston, this high-end sushi restaurant is worth a mention for its exceptional seafood skewers. The quality and presentation are unmatched.
- Sushi Noz (Midtown West): Known for its omakase experience, Sushi Noz also includes beautifully crafted seafood skewers in its tasting menus.
- The Mermaid Inn (Multiple Locations): This seafood-focused restaurant offers various grilled seafood skewers, perfect for a casual yet delicious meal.
- Citarella (Multiple Locations): While primarily a fish market, Citarella’s prepared food section often features grilled seafood skewers—a great option for a quick and fresh meal.
- Blue Hill at Stone Barns (Pocantico Hills): While this requires a trip outside the city, the farm-to-table experience and expertly prepared seafood skewers are worth it for a special occasion.
Vegetarian & Vegan Delights:
- Avant Garden (West Village): This entirely plant-based restaurant offers creative and flavorful vegetarian skewers, showcasing seasonal produce.
- Dirt Candy (Lower East Side): Dirt Candy offers a unique and innovative take on vegetarian cuisine, with some of their dishes incorporating vegetable skewers.
- Blossom (East Village): Blossom presents delicious and inventive vegan skewers in various flavors and styles.
- Superiority Burger (East Village): This casual spot is renowned for its creative vegetarian and vegan burgers, sometimes including skewers in its rotating menu.
International Flavors:
- Xi'an Famous Foods (Multiple Locations): This chain serves authentic Xi'an cuisine, including their famous spicy cumin lamb skewers.
- Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream (Multiple Locations): Surprisingly, some locations offer savory skewers alongside their famous ice cream. Check the seasonal menu.
- Los Tacos No. 1 (Multiple Locations): While primarily known for tacos, they often feature grilled meats on skewers as a side.
- Kebab Joint (Multiple Locations): This establishment offers a wide range of kebabs, a close cousin to skewers, from around the world.
Finding Your Perfect Skewer: A Guide to Different Styles
Different cultures have unique approaches to skewers. Understanding these styles will enhance your NYC skewer adventure.
| Style | Description | Example Location in NYC |
|---|---|---|
| Yakitori | Japanese grilled chicken skewers, often featuring various parts of the chicken. | Yakitori Totto |
| Kebab | Middle Eastern and Mediterranean grilled meat skewers, often marinated in spices. | Kebab Joint |
| Satay | Southeast Asian grilled skewers, typically marinated in peanut sauce. | Many Southeast Asian restaurants |
| Brochettes | French grilled skewers, often featuring meats and vegetables. | Many French bistros and brasseries |
| Churrasco | Brazilian grilled skewers, featuring various meats, often served at a churrascaria. | Several Brazilian steakhouses exist |
Beyond the Bite: The Importance of Atmosphere & Service
The best skewer experiences aren't just about the food; the atmosphere and service significantly contribute to the overall enjoyment. Look for restaurants that offer a welcoming ambiance, attentive service, and a commitment to quality ingredients.
Conclusion: Embark on Your NYC Skewer Journey
With its incredible diversity and culinary richness, New York City offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the world of skewers. This list provides a starting point for your culinary adventure. Don't hesitate to venture beyond these suggestions and discover your own hidden gems. Happy skewering!
