NYC's Hottest Restaurants: A TikTok Foodie's Guide to Eating Like an Influencer

Forget Yelp, TikTok is the New Food Authority in NYC

Forget dusty rankings like Zagats, TikTok is the new way to find the best and buzziest eats in New York City. Viral food influencers are boosting local businesses across the city, with a community as lively as any government program.

"Having an item on a menu go viral can be life-changing," says Rachel Brotman, behind the viral account @Carboholic. Her videos have helped multiple restaurants achieve online fame. "TikTok can transform a sleepy business."

Your TikTok-Approved NYC Food Tour

Here's a tour of the Big Apple's hottest bites, recommended by the city's most influential foodies:

1. Fedoroff's Roast Pork, Williamsburg

Fedoroff's is a Williamsburg haven for Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks and roast pork sandwiches. It's a TikTok darling, garnering 44.5 million video views since its 2016 opening.

"We love featuring very over-the-top, decadent, interesting places and Fedoroffs is a great example of that," says Gregg Remmy, of the popular foodie account @DevourPower.

• 178 N 10th St., Williamsburg; www.fedoroffs.com

2. Adel's Famous Halal Food, Midtown

If you've ever wondered about the snaking line at a seemingly ordinary halal cart on Sixth Avenue, chances are it's for Adel's. Its massive platters of classic halal dishes have turned it into an online sensation.

"They do one thing and they do it really well," says Clement Leung, @insta.noodls. He waited in line for an hour to try their lamb and beef platter, calling it "an incredible combo."

• 1221 6th Ave.; (917) 497-2317, AdelsFamousHalalFood.com

3. Ess-a-Bagel, Multiple Locations

TikTok can't get enough of Ess-a-Bagel, a classic New York institution famous for its poppy-seeded bagels and long lines every morning.

• Multiple locations, www.ess-a-bagel.com

4. Pasta de Pasta, East Village

Pasta de Pasta's East Village location draws hungry crowds for its creamy cheese wheel pasta, a TikTok favorite for its affordability and unique presentation.

"Homemade pasta is typically an expensive product which can only be purchased for at-home cooking, or at a sit-down restaurant," says Brotman.

• 192 1st Ave.; (973) 988-3347, pastadepastany.com

5. Ceremonia Bakeshop, Williamsburg

This tiny Bedford Avenue bakery is known for its gourmet goods, drawing on Dominican and Vietnamese heritage. But it's their massive, chorizo-and-potato-stuffed breakfast burrito that has won the hearts of TikTok.

• 743 Driggs Ave., Williamsburg; (347) 384-2212, www.instagram.com/ceremoniabakeshop

6. Fellini Coffee, Soho, West Village and Chelsea

Named after the iconic Italian filmmaker, Fellini Coffee has become New York's coolest coffee shop with a strong TikTok presence. Innovative drinks like the tiramisu latte and protein-ccino have fueled its success.

• Multiple locations, www.fellinicoffee.com

7. L’Industrie, Williamsburg and West Village

Voted some of the best pizza in the world by 50 Top Pizza, L'Industrie is a TikTok favorite. Its delicious slices have drawn people from all over the world.

• Multiple locations, www.lindustriebk.com

8. Ariston Coffee Bar, Union Square

This plant-filled coffee shop and flower shop is a picture-perfect spot for a coffee date. It's TikTok famous for its beautiful ambiance and delicious coffee.

• 78 5th Ave.; (212) 929-4226, aristonflowers.com

9. Thisbowl, Noho

This Australian chain recently opened its first New York location to viral success. Their healthy bowls, packed with fresh produce and protein, have become a Noho sensation.

• 65 Bleecker St.; thisbowl.com

10. Lil Sweet Treat, West Village

This West Village candy shop, owned by a TikTok food influencer, is a viral hit for its colorful Swedish sweets. Its prime location and cute branding have contributed to its popularity.

• 184 7th Ave S.

Whether you're looking for a decadent cheesesteak, a classic halal platter, or a unique coffee experience, these TikTok-approved NYC restaurants offer a delicious glimpse into the city's ever-evolving culinary scene.