Douyin influencers lead the way, updating New Yorker food map

Are you still turning to Yelp for the best food finds? That approach might be falling behind the times. If you’re looking to discover the

Are you still turning to Yelp for the best food finds? That approach might be falling behind the times. If you’re looking to discover the hottest and most tantalizing dishes in New York City, social media, especially TikTok, has emerged as the go-to platform for uncovering local dining treasures.

According to the New York Post, TikTok user Rachel Brotman has played a key role in putting various dishes on the viral map through her engaging videos. She pointed out how a single post can make a dish explode in popularity overnight, sometimes even reviving a restaurant’s fortunes. Let’s take a closer look at some of the exciting culinary hotspots she and others in the TikTok community have shared with hungry New Yorkers:

1. **Fedoroff’s Roast Pork:** Nestled in Williamsburg, this Philadelphia-inspired eatery is famous for its juicy cheesesteaks and decadent roast pork sandwiches. With an astonishing 44.5 million views on her TikTok, it’s clear why this place is a beloved local haunt. Owners Dave and Stella Fedoroff bring authentic South Philly flavors to every sandwich.

2. **Adel’s Famous Halal Food:** If you stroll down Sixth Avenue and spot a food truck with a serpentine line, it’s probably Adel’s. Their hearty to-go boxes filled with tender beef, lamb, fried rice, and mouthwatering sauces have made them an absolute staple. Toronto native Clement Leung called it “an incredible combination” after braving an hour-long wait in the rain.

3. **Ess-a-Bagel:** Known for their iconic poppy seed bagels, this spot has sparked a love for classic New York fare among TikTok users. Alongside generous toppings, their long morning lines have become a trademark. Curious about the appeal? There are plenty of videos offering insider tips on skipping those pesky waits.

4. **Pasta de Pasta:** Located in the East Village, this place offers handmade cream cheese pasta for just $9, attracting food lovers from far and wide. Brotman pointed out that fresh, al dente pasta often comes at a steeper price, making this gem a rare find.

5. **Ceremonia Bakeshop:** Home to what many claim is the best breakfast burrito in New York, stuffed with savory sausage and hearty potatoes, this bakeshop has earned glowing reviews. The owners, a Dominican Republic and Vietnam couple, have curated a menu that celebrates their rich culinary backgrounds.

6. **Fellini Coffee:** Named after the iconic Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini, this coffee shop, with several locations around the city, has been dubbed one of the coolest coffee spots in New York. Owner Franco Noriega, a former athlete and model from Peru, delights customers with his inventive drinks, including tiramisu lattes and protein coffee that keep everyone buzzing.

7. **L’Industrie:** Recognized by the prestigious 50 Top Pizza as one of the best pizzerias in the world, this beloved spot has also won over TikTok users. Owner Massimo Laveglia shuns social media, opting instead to focus on sourcing top-quality ingredients for his pies.

8. **Ariston Coffee Bar:** This floral-inspired cafe, inundated with the rich aroma of coffee, left a lasting impression on Kari Dowiak, who described it as the quintessential coffee and flower shop. Her TikTok video received 100,000 likes and over 600,000 views.

9. **Thisbowl:** Brotman admitted she never thought New Yorkers would queue for hours for a salad, but the Noho location of Fish Bowl, which boasts over 45 spots in Australia, has drawn crowds with its fresh ingredients and protein-packed meals.

10. **Lil Sweet Treat:** Open for just under a month, this charming mini-shop, run by food influencer Elly Ross, has quickly captured hearts with its vibrant Swedish candies. One video from top fan Ella Kahan boasted 125,000 likes.

So, if you find yourself in New York City, make sure to explore these trending eateries—they just might become your new favorites!