Papaya King

Papaya King, a historic hot dog and papaya drink shop that's been a New York staple for over 90 years. Founded in 1932 by Greek immigrant Constantine “Gus” Poulos on the Upper East Side, Papaya King has recently reopened at 206 East 86th Street after a brief closure. Although the new location is a bit smaller and lacks the iconic neon signage of the original, it still serves up those classic New York-style hot dogs with a perfect snap when you bite into them, paired with their signature papaya drinks. This place is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the real flavor of NYC, and it's a great spot to grab a quick, delicious bite on the go. So, if you're eager to dive into the city's culinary culture, Papaya King is definitely worth a visit.

Photo: Karla & James Murray