There's something oddly comforting about food chains be it the familiar atmosphere, the never changing decor or the promise of your favorite burger that tastes the same no matter where you go. It's no surprise that New York City, a major culinary hotspot, is the birthplace of some immensely popular chain establishments.
We've been spoiled when it comes to food, so forgive us in advance for sighing upon learning that we can't purchase Ginger barbecue brisket sandwiches elsewhere.
1. Xi’an Famous Foods
Xi’an Famous Foods had its start in a dingy basement inside the Golden Mall food court in Flushing, Queens. Although the decor wasn't a selling point, the lamb burgers and hand-pulled (拉面, la mian) noodles certainly were. Before long, Anthony Bourdain and Andrew Zimmern found their way to the eatery. The father and son team behind Xi’an Famous Foods have now expanded their enterprise by opening several locations throughout the city.
Photo via Xi’an Famous Foods
2. Mighty Quinn’s
Hugh Mangum sit up a brick-and-mortar shop in the East Village after receiving rave reviews about his "Texalina" barbeque (combining Texas rubs and North Carolina vinegars) at Smorgasburg, a seasonal outdoor food market. Today, Mighty Quinn's serves brisket, pulled-pork sandwiches and other meats straight from a carnivore's wildest dreams.
Photo via Mighty Quinn's
3. The Meatball Shop
You can't go wrong with meat molded into the shape of a ball. The Meatball Shop sells all kinds made from pork, beef and chicken (there's even a vegetarian option). After selecting your meat or non-meat, you can choose which sauce to dip them into or what dish to pair them alongside with. Rest assured, your creation will probably be delicious, whether you choose to pile your meatballs onto a baguette or a slider.
Photo via The Meatball Shop
4. Num Pang
Ratha Chaupoly and Ben Daitz opened their first Cambodian sandwich shop in Union Square, and have since expanded their enterprise to seven other locations across the city. A classic sandwich starts off with a freshly baked quinoa or semolina baguette, filled with chili mayo, pickled carrots, cilantro and cucumber. Insert main protein or veggie of course and proceed to feast like a king.
Photo via Num Pang
5. Luke’s Lobster
In 2009, Maine native, Luke Holden, teamed up with friend, Ben Conniff, to open Luke's Lobster roll shop, which sources its lobster directly from Maine. Topped with butter and served alongside Cape Cod chips, the lobster roll is one of the best in NYC. The chain has consequently spread to other cities, including Chicago and Boston.
Photo via Luke's Lobster
