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The Ten Foods You Must Try in Grand Central Terminal

If you ever find yourself in Grand Central waiting for a train, or simply wandering the spectacular spaces in this New York City landmark, this list of 10 foods to eat will come in quite handy. You'll discover there’s so much more to Grand Central than just trainsthere’s the architecture, there’s the history, there’s the shopping, there's free concerts (see below)…and, as you’re about to learn, there’s the FOOD.

Grand Central Dining: Michael Jordan’s The Steak House NYC

Michael Jordan's Steak House

Want to enjoy a sit-down meal while still being able to get in your Grand Central people watching time? Michael Jordan’s The Steak House NYC gets it, and they’ll accommodate you with one of the best views of the main concourse in the entire station. Fill up on charred steaks, fresh seafood, and memorable desserts while you’re here. 23 E. Vanderbilt Ave, 212-655-2300, michaeljordansnyc.com

Grand Central Dining: Central Market New York

Central Market New York is located in the Lower Level Dining Concourse, and it’s pretty much a must if you’re looking for that perfect sammie experience in Grand Central. From grilled and made to order to deli cold and breakfast ingredients, there is basically no sandwich that Central Market won’t make you. 89 E. 42nd St., 212-808-5227, centralmarketnewyork.com

Grand Central Dining: Jacques Torres Chocolate

Jacques Torres

Checkout the Lexington Passage if your sweet tooth is kicking in during your time at Grand Central. Jacques Torres Chocolate can be found there, along with their 30 flavors of ice cream, crepes, shakes, and, of course, chocolate. 89 E. 42nd St., 212-983-7353, mrchocolate.com

Grand Central Dining: Shiro of Japan 

Only in New York (and perhaps, well, Japan), can you get your fill of authentic sushi while waiting for the train to show up. Head down to the Lower Level Dining Concourse to pickup some fresh sashimi, teriyaki bowls, udon and more. 89 E. 42nd St., 212-972-9638, shiroofjapan.com 

Grand Central Dining: Shake Shack

Shake Shack

We don’t care what anybody says about it, Shake Shack is our go-to burger joint, and it hasn’t failed us yet. Vegetarians can enjoy the restaurant’s Shroom Burger and kids go crazy for the extra creamy frozen custard they serve. We’re drooling just thinking about it. 89 E. 42nd St., 646-517-5804, shakeshack.com

Grand Central Dining: Magnolia Bakery

When it comes to cupcakes, Magnolia Bakery doesn’t mess around. Strawberry cupcakes topped with strawberry meringue icing and red velvet cupcakes topped with whipped vanilla icing are just the beginning. And don’t even get us started on their banana pudding. 89 E. 42nd St., 212-682-3588, magnoliabakery.com

Grand Central Dining: Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant

Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant

This oyster bar has been around for over a century, and you can find it in the lower-level dining concourse. The architecture of this place will blow your mind, as will its seafood selection. Obviously, raw oysters are a huge hit here, but for those who aren’t into the raw dining, go for a fried po’ boy, lobster roll, or fresh chowder bowl instead. 89 E. 42nd St., 212-490-6650, oysterbarny.com

Grand Central Dining: Cafe Grumpy

Don’t let its name intimidate you, the employees here are anything but grumpy. Sourcing their pastries locally and brewing up local coffee, this little cafe is the perfect pick me up spot. Get your caffeine fill here, it will turn that frown upside down. (Sorry, we had to). 89 E. 42nd St., 212-661-2198, cafegrumpy.com

Grand Central Dining: Cipriani Dolci

Cipriani Dolci

This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Cipriani Dolci. Head to the West Balcony to enjoy some mouthwateringly delicious Northern Italian cuisine with a view. The grilled salmon and pasta carbonara always leave us coming back for more. 89 E. 42nd St., 212-973-0999, cipriani.com

Grand Central Dining: Tri Tip Grill

Looking for a char-roasted tri tip sandwich on the go? Tri Tip Grill has you covered. Order one of their signature items, such as the Bacon Cheddar Buck or the Char Broiled Chicken, to get your fill of meaty goodness. 89 E. 42nd St., 212-557-1000, tritipgrill.com


The Dining Concourse in Concert music series will help you beat the heat on Thursday, July 7th, in celebration of National Ice Cream Month. Sweet Megg & The Wayfarers heat up the dance floor with a combination of swing, cabaret, and blues. While they're playing, get 20 percent off select flavors of ice cream and sorbet at Jacques Torres. (Select other GCT restaurants also offer specials in conjunction with The Dining Concourse in Concert series.) 

“First Thursday” concerts (free, 6 to 8pm) include upcoming performances by:

August 4, 2016 – The Sunnyside Social Club
September 1, 2016 – Underground Horns
October 6, 2016 – Blue Dahlia
November 3, 2016 – Baby Soda Jazz Band
December 1, 2016 – Backtrack A Cappella

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