As the crisp autumn air sweeps through the streets of New York City, the city's culinary scene undergoes a seasonal transformation. Fall in NYC brings an abundance of flavors, with restaurants, food trucks, and markets showcasing the best of what the season has to offer. Whether you're a lifelong New Yorker or a first-time visitor, here are 13 must-try foods that will make your fall experience in the Big Apple truly unforgettable.

1. Pumpkin Spice Everything

Pumpkin spice has become synonymous with fall, and in New York City, you'll find this seasonal flavor everywhere. From pumpkin spice lattes at your favorite coffee shop to pumpkin-flavored pastries at local bakeries, the city goes all out for this autumnal classic. Head over to spots like Dominique Ansel Bakery in Soho or the cozy Little Collins café for your pumpkin spice fix.

But it's not just about the lattes. NYC's creative chefs have taken pumpkin spice to new heights, incorporating it into savory dishes like pumpkin spice gnocchi or pumpkin-infused risotto. Make sure to explore some of the city's innovative restaurants to discover unique takes on this beloved fall flavor.

2. Hot Apple Cider

Nothing warms you up on a chilly fall day quite like a cup of hot apple cider. New York City's cider game is strong, with local markets and food stalls offering this spiced beverage made from fresh, local apples. One of the best places to enjoy hot apple cider is at the Union Square Greenmarket, where you can find farm-fresh versions alongside homemade apple cider donuts.

For a twist on the traditional, some cafes and bars in NYC are now serving spiked apple cider cocktails, adding a little extra warmth to your fall evenings. Pair it with a stroll through Central Park, where the vibrant fall foliage provides the perfect backdrop for sipping this quintessential autumn drink.

3. Butternut Squash Soup

As temperatures drop, hearty soups become a staple on menus across the city, and butternut squash soup is a fall favorite. This creamy, comforting dish can be found in eateries all over NYC, from upscale restaurants to casual diners. The rich, velvety texture and sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash make it an ideal choice for a warming meal.

For an elevated version, try the butternut squash soup at ABC Kitchen, where they add a drizzle of sage-infused oil and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for an extra layer of flavor. This dish is the epitome of fall in a bowl and is sure to leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.

4. Roasted Chestnuts

Roasted chestnuts are a quintessential New York City street food, especially in the fall and winter months. The aroma of these nuts roasting over an open flame is one of the most nostalgic scents of the season. As you walk through the city, you'll likely come across vendors selling these warm, toasty treats in small paper bags.

Roasted chestnuts are perfect for snacking on as you explore the city, and they pair wonderfully with a stroll down Fifth Avenue or a visit to Bryant Park. Their slightly sweet, nutty flavor and soft texture make them a delightful seasonal indulgence.

5. Apple Pie

No fall food list would be complete without mentioning apple pie. This classic American dessert is particularly special in New York, where bakeries and restaurants take great pride in crafting the perfect pie. Whether you prefer a traditional slice with a flaky crust or something more inventive, like a salted caramel apple pie, NYC has you covered.

Head to Four & Twenty Blackbirds in Brooklyn for a taste of one of the city's best apple pies, or visit The Little Pie Company in Hell's Kitchen for their famous Sour Cream Apple Walnut Pie. Each bite of these pies captures the essence of fall, with tender, spiced apples nestled in buttery pastry.

6. Truffle Pasta

Fall is truffle season, and New York City's restaurants pull out all the stops when it comes to incorporating this luxurious ingredient into their dishes. Truffle pasta, in particular, is a must-try, with its rich, earthy flavors perfectly complementing the cooler weather. From creamy truffle mac and cheese to more refined dishes like tagliatelle with shaved black truffles, the options are endless.

If you're looking to indulge in this fall treat, make a reservation at L'Artusi in the West Village, where their truffle pasta is a crowd favorite. The dish is simple yet decadent, showcasing the truffles' natural flavor and aroma. And if you're inspired to try making your own truffle pasta, consider joining our hands-on pasta-making class in NYC, where you'll learn to create pasta dishes like a pro. Sign up here.

7. Mulled Wine

As the days grow shorter and the evenings cooler, mulled wine becomes a popular choice for New Yorkers looking to warm up. This spiced, heated wine is infused with flavors like cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel, making it the perfect beverage for a cozy fall night. You can find mulled wine at various bars and outdoor markets around the city, particularly as the holiday season approaches.

One of the best places to enjoy mulled wine is at the Winter Village in Bryant Park, where you can sip on this festive drink while browsing the holiday shops or taking a spin on the ice rink. The combination of the warm wine and the crisp outdoor air is quintessentially autumnal.

8. Sweet Potato Dishes

Sweet potatoes are a fall staple, and in NYC, you'll find them featured in both sweet and savory dishes. From sweet potato fries to roasted sweet potato salads, the versatility of this root vegetable is on full display. For a unique twist, try the sweet potato ravioli at Babbo, where the sweetness of the potatoes is balanced by a sage brown butter sauce.

Sweet potato pie is another must-try, especially during the Thanksgiving season. Head to Amy Ruth's in Harlem for a slice of their Southern-style sweet potato pie, which is rich, spiced, and perfectly sweet. Whether you're enjoying sweet potatoes in a savory or sweet dish, this fall favorite is sure to satisfy.

9. Cranberry Relish

Cranberries are a fall fruit that often get overshadowed by pumpkins and apples, but they play a starring role in many seasonal dishes. Cranberry relish, in particular, is a tangy, sweet accompaniment that pairs beautifully with roast meats, sandwiches, and even cheeses. Many NYC delis and restaurants offer their own take on this classic, often featuring it in Thanksgiving-themed menus.

One place to try a standout cranberry relish is at Katz's Delicatessen, where it's served alongside their famous turkey sandwiches. The tartness of the cranberries cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a perfect balance of flavors. If you're looking to bring some of that fall flavor home, consider picking up a jar of homemade cranberry relish from one of the city's farmers' markets.

10. Chestnut Stuffing

Stuffing is a Thanksgiving staple, but in New York, it's not just for the holiday table. Many restaurants incorporate seasonal ingredients like chestnuts into their stuffing recipes, creating a dish that's rich, flavorful, and perfect for fall. Chestnut stuffing adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with roast meats or as a standalone side dish.

If you want to experience the best of NYC's chestnut stuffing, make a reservation at The Breslin, where the dish is served with roast chicken and a side of gravy. The combination of the earthy chestnuts and the savory stuffing is the ultimate comfort food, making it a must-try during the fall season.

As you savor these fall delicacies, consider enhancing your culinary skills by joining our hands-on pasta-making class in NYC. Learn to create delicious pasta dishes from scratch, just in time for the holiday season. Reserve your spot today!

11. Pie Baking

Pie is an all-American classic that shines particularly bright in the fall. With a myriad of seasonal fruits available, the possibilities for pie in New York City are endless. Whether you are a fan of classic apple pie, the rich decadence of pecan, or the tart freshness of cherry, you’ll find plenty to satisfy your palate at NYC’s best bakeries and pie shops.

For those inspired to make their own pies this fall, consider enrolling in a pie baking class. The Pie Baking Class in NYC offers a fantastic opportunity to learn from experienced bakers how to craft the perfect crust and filling, turning seasonal ingredients into exquisite pies. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, this class will enhance your baking skills just in time for the holiday season. Join the Pie Baking Class here!

12. Bagel Making

No food item is quite as synonymous with New York City as the bagel. These doughy rings are a staple of NYC cuisine, and fall brings about flavors like cinnamon raisin or pumpkin spice bagels. Many locals have their favorite bagel shops, where bagels are boiled and baked fresh daily, providing that perfect chewy texture and shiny crust.

If you've ever wanted to learn how to make authentic New York bagels yourself, there’s no better time than fall to start. The NYC Bagel Making Classes offer a hands-on experience where you can learn the secrets to making traditional New York-style bagels right in your own kitchen. From mixing and shaping the dough to boiling and baking, this class will guide you through the entire process. Sign up for Bagel Making Classes here!

13. Donut Making

As the weather cools, the warm, comforting appeal of freshly made donuts becomes irresistible. New York City offers a plethora of donuts, from classic glazed to extravagant toppings and fillings inspired by the season’s harvest like apple cinnamon or pumpkin spice. Bakeries across the city boast lines of eager customers waiting to indulge in these sweet, fluffy treats.

For those intrigued by the art of donut making, New York City offers classes where you can learn to craft your own. The Donut Making Classes in NYC are a perfect way to dive into the world of baking, providing you with the skills to create delicious donuts from scratch. Whether you’re planning a cozy fall gathering or just want to impress your family and friends, these classes will make you a master of the donut in no time. Learn to make donuts here!