A curated selection of New York City spots where keto dieters can find satisfying low-carb meals without sacrificing flavor. This list highlights establishments offering grilled meats, cheese-heavy dishes, and vegetable-based alternatives that align with ketogenic dietary requirements.
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A historic NYC institution famous for its mutton chops and extensive steak selection. Their generous portions of grilled meats paired with butter-basted vegetables or side salads make it a reliable option for high-fat, low-carb dining in the heart of Manhattan.
While known for soup dumplings, Joe's offers excellent keto-friendly alternatives. Diners can opt for steamed chicken or pork dishes without the sugary glazes, served with a side of plain noodles or extra greens for a lighter, low-carb lunch.
A street food staple, but keto-conscious visitors should skip the rice and pita. Ordering the plate with just chicken or gyro, heavy on the white sauce, provides a high-protein, high-fat meal that fits macros if you ignore the bread and rice.
This iconic Soho brasserie offers classic French dishes that are easily adapted for keto. The steak frites can be substituted for a side salad, and their oyster and charcuterie selections provide perfect low-carb starters rich in healthy fats.
Famous for its massive pastrami sandwiches, Katz's allows patrons to order a 'modified' sandwich. Requesting the meat on a plate without the rye bread and adding extra pickles and mustard creates a high-protein, low-carb meal that honors tradition.
This massive Italian marketplace has numerous counters where keto dieters can succeed. The cheese counter offers high-fat options, while the butcher stall provides fresh cuts of meat. Avoid the pasta and bread sections to stay within ketosis limits.
While not a traditional street stall, Shack serves fast-casual food across the city. The keto-friendly choice is a Shake Shack Burger with a lettuce wrap instead of a bun, paired with cheese and no sugary sauces for a quick, compliant meal.
Known for pancakes, this spot actually offers good savory breakfast options. The eggs benedict can be served over a bed of spinach or simply as fried eggs with bacon or sausage, avoiding the carb-heavy toast and hollandaise sugar traps.
A West Village favorite that embraces Mediterranean flavors perfect for keto. Their crudo, grilled fish, and olive oil-rich pasta alternatives (like zucchini noodles if available) provide elegant, low-carb meals that are both delicious and diet-compliant.
This Greek spot is ideal for keto dieters who enjoy grilled seafood and vegetables. Ordering grilled octopus, lamb chops, and a side of taramasalata or tzatziki (in moderation) offers a flavorful, high-fat meal without the heavy carbs.
Brooklyn's renowned pizzeria offers a cauliflower crust option that can satisfy pizza cravings without the carbs. Pairing the thin-crust pizza with extra olive oil and high-protein toppings like pepperoni makes it a manageable, indulgent keto treat.
Beyond the main deli counter, Katz's offers pastrami and corned beef that are naturally low-carb. Diners can create a 'sandwich' using lettuce leaves or simply eat the meat with mustard and pickles for a quick, protein-packed street-side snack.
A chain with multiple NYC locations offering a versatile menu. Their chicken and waffles can be modified by skipping the waffles, and their salads are packed with high-quality meats and cheeses, making it a reliable spot for consistent keto options.
While standard pizza is off-limits, some NYC slices shops allow custom orders. However, for Joe's specifically, it's better to visit nearby delis for high-quality cured meats and cheeses, which are staples of keto street food if you bring your own plate.
An upscale Italian restaurant where portions are large and meat-centric. The veal Parmigiana can be ordered without the breadcrumbs or pasta, focusing on the meat and cheese for a rich, high-fat meal that fits well within a ketogenic framework.
A legendary Brooklyn pizzeria. While traditional pizza is high-carb, keto dieters can sometimes find accommodations or simply enjoy the fresh mozzarella and basil on a side salad. It's more about the experience, so checking ahead for lettuce-wrapped options is wise.
For high-end sushi lovers, Masa offers omakase experiences. Ordering sashimi (raw fish without rice) and tuna or salmon appetizers provides excellent omega-3 fatty proteins. It is an expensive option but represents the pinnacle of low-carb dining in NYC.
Areas like K-Town offer various BBQ restaurants where you can order grilled meats like bulgogi beef or galbi without the rice and bancha with heavy sauces. Focus on lettuce wraps for the meat to keep carbs low and fats high.
Specifically ordering the chicken and gyro meat over a salad instead of rice is the most accessible keto street food hack. The white sauce adds necessary fats, making this a quick, affordable, and compliant option found on nearly every block.
While bagels are high-carb, Eli's offers excellent lox and cream cheese sandwiches. Keto dieters can ask for the lox and cheese on a plate, avoiding the bagel entirely. This provides a high-fat, high-protein breakfast option typical of NYC Jewish delis.