In the heart of New York City, the allure of knishes transcends mere culinary delight; it is a veritable celebration of tradition, culture, and community. The knish—a pastry filled with an array of delectable fillings such as potatoes, cheese, or meat—hails from Eastern European Jewish heritage, evolving over the decades into a beloved staple throughout the vibrant neighborhoods of NYC. This listicle explores ten noteworthy places where you can savor these treasured delights while providing insights into the unique ambiance of each establishment. Each knish shop serves not only as a purveyor of pastries but also as a microcosm of the rich tapestry that forms New York’s diverse neighborhoods.
1. Yonah Schimmel’s Knish Bakery
Address: 137 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (212) 477-2870
Website: yonahschimmels.com
Founded in 1910, Yonah Schimmel’s is an iconic establishment nestled in the Lower East Side. The bakery stands as a testament to the history of Jewish immigrants, where the aroma of freshly baked knishes permeates the air. Patrons flock here for their exceptional potato knishes—rich, buttery, and encased in a perfectly flaky crust. The unpretentious charm of the bakery invites both locals and tourists to partake in a shared experience that is steeped in nostalgia.
2. The Knish Shop
Address: 632 Manhattan Ave, New York, NY 10027
Contact: (212) 234-6139
Website: theknishshop.com
A hidden gem in Harlem, The Knish Shop is beloved for its wide array of fillings, ranging from sweet to savory. The family-run establishment reflects the neighborhood’s heritage and serves as a meeting point for both young and old. Their signature spinach-and-cheese knish delivers a tangy burst of flavor that resonates with patrons, ensuring that every bite evokes an appreciation for tradition and innovation alike.
3. Take A Knish
Address: 1181 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11221
Contact: (718) 453-1818
Website: takeaknish.com
Take A Knish stands at the crossroads of Brownsville and East New York, with a reputation for crafting artisanal knishes from locally sourced ingredients. This modern eatery emphasizes sustainability while honoring the time-honored recipes passed down through generations. Their signature zaatar knish exemplifies the fusion of traditional Jewish flavors with contemporary culinary trends—each bite a testament to the resilient spirit of the community.
4. Kossar’s Bialys
Address: 367 Grand St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (212) 475-3678
Website: kossarsbialys.com
Situated in the Lower East Side, Kossar’s Bialys is a classic that embraces both bialys and knishes. Established in 1936, the shop invites visitors into an experience that pays homage to the Jewish culinary legacy. The potato knish is a must-try, boasting a crispy exterior and a satisfying, hearty filling that resonates with those who appreciate authentic flavors. Kossar’s serves as a cultural touchstone, where every dish tells a story.
5. Mrs. Adler’s
Address: 445 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018
Contact: (212) 840-1406
Website: mrsadlers.com
Mrs. Adler’s in Midtown Manhattan embodies the essence of a quintessential Jewish deli, where classic knishes are crafted with care. The rich history woven into each dish reflects a time when the deli served as the heart of the community. The delicious meat knishes are perfectly seasoned, offering a delightful balance that evokes comfort and warmth, reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
6. Glatt Kosher Deli
Address: 715 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10455
Contact: (718) 292-4999
Website: glattkosherdeli.com
Glatt Kosher Deli in the Bronx is a go-to for lovers of traditional knishes within a vibrant cultural setting. This establishment, known for its kosher offerings, satisfies patrons with classic potato knishes that marry textures and flavors beautifully. The sense of community here is palpable, and sharing a knish with family or friends offers a deeper connection to the culinary traditions of the Jewish diaspora.
7. The Brooklyn Knish
Address: 393 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Contact: (718) 522-9000
Website: thebrooklynknish.com
As a contemporary homage to the knish culture, The Brooklyn Knish enjoys popularity among Brooklynites. Their innovative flavors, such as Moroccan spiced veggies, appeal to adventurous palates. The blend of traditional techniques with contemporary ingredients makes this an exciting stop for both loyal knish aficionados and newcomers alike.
8. Artie’s Deli
Address: 2290 Broadway, New York, NY 10024
Contact: (212) 864-6600
Website: artiesdeli.com
Artie’s Deli on the Upper West Side stands out with its bustling atmosphere and extensive menu. The knishes here are a labor of love, made from scratch and bursting with flavor. The potato and cheese knish is a local favorite, embodying the perfect balance of richness and texture. Artie’s not only provides a meal but also fosters a cultural heritage that is as vibrant as the neighborhood itself.
9. Esther’s Kitchen
Address: 173 E 104th St, New York, NY 10029
Contact: (212) 987-0503
Website: estherskitchen.com
This cozy kitchen in East Harlem brings comfort food to the forefront, featuring knishes that reflect the home-cooked essence. Esther’s Kitchen prides itself on its warm ambience, enticing visitors to linger longer over a knish. The sweet potato knish, adorned with a hint of cinnamon, provides a delightful twist that appeals to those with a penchant for the sweeter side of savory pastries.
10. Kettle Black
Address: 1067 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10022
Contact: (212) 319-2000
Website: kettleblack.com
Rounding off this list, Kettle Black in the Upper East Side features a trendy twist on the classic knish, with gourmet fillings that keep patrons intrigued. Their knishes are expertly crafted and visually appealing. It’s here that culinary tradition meets modernity, encapsulating the essence of New York’s ever-evolving dining scene.
From the traditional to the avant-garde, these ten locations represent the multifaceted journey of the knish in New York City. Each establishment offers not only exceptional flavors but also a sense of belonging and nostalgia that ties the community together. Indulging in a knish is more than a mere treat; it’s an invitation to explore the intricate narrative of a city celebrated for its diversity and cultural heritage.
