What to say about the culinary opportunities available in New York?  New York City, the fifth largest city in the world, is a topic unto itself with cuisines from every culture in the world served up.  There is no denying the influence of the Jewish culture. Savor a bagel from H&H Bagel, or a hand carved pastrami on rye from Katz's Delicatessen.  Little Italy and Chinatown have welcomed Italian and Chinese immigrants since the 1870's and still retain the flavors, sounds, and smells of that time.  

New York state is renowned for its picturesque vineyards and award winning wines originating in Long Island, the Hudson River Valley, the Finger Lakes, and Niagara.  Apples have been grown and developed for over 300 years in New York State.  And the artisanal cheeses that come from NYS are exquisite.  A personal favorite, Buffalo Wings born in Buffalo, NY where each year on Labor Day weekend the largest wing festival is celebrated.  Here are a few more bits of food trivia to ponder, foods that originated in New York include: Thousand Island Dressing (Clayton), Waldorf Salad (Manhattan), Potato Chips (Saratoga Springs), Manhattan Clam Chowder (Manhattan) Cream Cheese (Monroe County), and Jello (Leroy).

For more information about New York food festivals, cooking classes, culinary tours, browse DestinationFood's webpages or visit the "I Love NY" official New York State Tourism Website.