Eats + Sweets Must Visits in NYC for Teens and Tweens

As an NYC local, I am lucky to be able to try so many fun places. There are always new hot spots popping up, so staying on top of what’s in can be overwhelming as you plan your trip. Check out some of the most creative, yummy and Instagram feed deserving spots you need to check out.

SWEETS + STUFF

Dominique Ansel Bakery: The originator of the famous Cronut, Blossoming Hot Chocolate and so many other treats. Visit the main location in Soho or the workshop in Flatiron for some midday pick me ups.

Dylan’s Candy Bar: Calling all candy lovers! The brand was started by Dylan Lauren (Ralph Lauren’s daughter) and the experience of this shop brings back the inner child in all of us. You may spend way too much time here. Location: Hudson Yards.

Mocha Matcha: Mixing art and lattes is their specialty. They can print your photo on any of their lattes, making them almost too pretty to drink. Location: Urbanspace / Vanderbilt near Grand Central Station.

Taiyaki NYC: If you are looking for the fish-shaped ice cream cones to take a spot on your Instagram feed, you will find it here. Cones filled with soft-serve ice cream and so many topping options are their specialty. Location: Chinatown/Little Italy Neighborhood.

Lady M Confections: If you love cake and you love crepes, you will love a Lady M treat. With multiple locations in NYC, your kids will find this one on the map, so be sure to make a plan to visit.

Milk Bar: Milk Bar's playful and quirky desserts are not only so yummy but also perfect for Instagram. The rainbow-hued birthday cake, the famous Compost Cookie, or the cereal milk ice cream are some of the favorites. Check out the flagship location in Nomad. Pro tip: Can’t get enough of this brand? Book a Build-A-Experience via Resy and make your own 8” cookie or 6” cake and whip up some Milk Bar magic.

Economy Candy: Opened in 1937, this candy store is an NYC staple. Owned by multiple generations throughout the years, the store stocks over 2,000 candy favorites and treats that you can’t always find. The store is merchandised by color, making it a fun experience to visit. Location: Lower East Side.

Levain Bakery: Are warm chocolate chip cookies your thang? These are my favorites. Pro tip: Splurge on the tin box and take them home with you. Your family will thank you.

MORE THAN SWEETS

Sugar Factory: Known as the sweetest place on earth, they are famous for their oversized, candy-themed goblet drinks. These colorful and creatively presented beverages are often filled with a variety of candies, syrups, and flavored sodas. Some even come with dry ice for a dramatic effect. Full menu also available.

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer: If you are ready for the most creative milkshakes in all of NYC, this is your place. They also have a full menu of delicious burgers, salads, apps and more. Locations: Soho or Macy’s/Empire State Building area.

Rubirosa: Home of the Tie Dye pizza and a prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand award. Reservations open 7 days in advance, so be ready to book as these are gone in seconds.

Revelie: Ready for a diner but want to feel like you are whisked away to Paris? This is the place. No need to plan ahead as they accept only walk-ins. Stop in while in the heart of Soho.

Are you ready to experience some of these great finds and more? Reach out and let me plan the perfect trip to NYC for you and your family.  

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to New York City.

In need of further inspiration? Check out The Girlfriend’s Guide to NYC.