NYC Weddings: 7 Iconic New York Food Staples to Try As Hors D'oeuvres
Add some of New York’s most iconic food staples to the menu at your cocktail hour.
There is nothing quite like the eclectic food scene in New York City. The Big Apple is known for its culinary diversity, exciting cocktail culture, and all of it being steeped in the city’s rich history. If your wedding will be in New York, we think that your cocktail hour menu should be no exception. When it comes time to plan and customize your hors d'oeuvres, we love when there are opportunities to incorporate some of the city's most popular fare.
New York’s iconic food choices are virtually endless, but these are some that we love to include during NYC-based cocktail receptions.
Miniature Bagels with Lox
Bagels have a long history in New York City, with immigrants bringing the traditional bread over from Eastern Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the New York-style bagel is famous around the world, and there is nothing quite like adding lox or lox spread to make it the most authentic.
Miniature bagels with smoked salmon and cream cheese are a classic appetizer that will delight your guests. Adding a fresh dill garnish or a sprinkle of everything seasoning will also make for the perfect finish.
Soft Pretzels with Mustard
Soft pretzels originated primarily in Germany and Austria before becoming a popular snack in the United States. In New York City, pretzels have been sold on the streets for over a century and are often associated with baseball games and street fairs.
Soft pretzels with spicy mustard are a beloved NYC snack that will be sure to please your guests' taste buds. Serving them warm can be even better!
New York-Style Pizza
What would this list be without New York-style pizza? Pizza is a New York City staple and is known for its thin, crispy crust and foldable slices. The pizza tradition in New York City dates back to the early 1900s, when Italian immigrants began selling the dish in their neighborhood bakeries. Today, there are countless pizzerias throughout the city serving up variations on the classic slice.
One thing we love is that pizza can be served in so many different ways when incorporated at a wedding. During a cocktail hour, it can be served in bite-sized slices. Pizza can also be incorporated as a late-night snack when the night begins to wind down.
Planning your wedding menu soon?
Cannolis
Cannolis are a traditional Italian pastry that originated in Sicily. The dessert consists of a crispy, fried shell filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and sometimes chocolate chips or candied fruit. In New York City, cannolis can be found at many Italian bakeries and delis.
Who said cannolis have to wait until after dinner? This classic Italian treat can be served as a sweet snack option for guests to enjoy.
Halal Cart-Style Chicken and Rice
This dish is one that can lend itself to venues that specialize in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. This dish is inspired by the halal food carts that can be found throughout New York City, particularly in Midtown. The carts typically serve a combination of seasoned chicken, yellow rice, and a variety of sauces.
This popular street food can make for a creative food station option. The dish typically consists of seasoned chicken, yellow rice, and a variety of sauces, such as white sauce and hot sauce.
Falafel Bites
In the 1940s and 1950s, falafel stands started popping up in New York City's Lower East Side. Today, falafel is a staple among both NYC restaurants and food trucks alike.
Playing on falafel’s street cart roots within New York is one of our favorite ways to incorporate it into a wedding menu. Falafel bites can be served with hummus and tzatziki. They also make for a fantastic vegetarian option.
New York-Style Cheesecake
Last but certainly not least, New York-style cheesecake is another classic dessert that can be a hit with guests. It can be served as a bite during a cocktail hour, dessert, or as a late night menu offering.
New York-style cheesecake is known for its dense, creamy texture and graham cracker crust. The dessert has been popular in New York City since the early 20th century, and is often associated with the city's delis.
Not sure where to begin? For inspiration, sometimes speaking with a caterer directly is one of the best ways to go. The team at Vienna Calling Catering is NYC-based and designs all menus based on the unique vision of each of their clients. Vienna Calling Catering is owned by Michelin Chef Eduard Frauneder and specializes in unique menus with both European and New York flair.