I’m going to let you in on a little secret: as a New York street food blogger, there are few events I anticipate more than the annual Taste of Times Square. It’s a sensory overload in the best possible way, a vibrant, delicious, and slightly chaotic celebration of the global flavors that make this city so special. And I’m thrilled to tell you that it’s back for another year on Monday, September 8, 2025, transforming the iconic Broadway Plazas and Duffy Square into a culinary playground.
A Culinary History in the Making
The Taste of Times Square isn’t just a pop-up food festival; it’s one of New York City’s longest-running outdoor food events, a tradition that has been celebrating the area’s diverse dining scene for over two decades. While Times Square is often thought of as a tourist hub, the surrounding blocks are home to an incredible array of restaurants, from classic Italian to authentic Caribbean. This event is a genius way to bring those hidden gems out into the spotlight, showcasing the true culinary depth of the neighborhood. It’s an opportunity for visitors and locals alike to explore flavors they might otherwise miss.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
My Personal Times Square Food Adventure
I’ve had the pleasure of covering the Taste of Times Square for NewYorkStreetFood.com for several years, and each time is a new adventure. The energy is electric. I remember one year, I was juggling a plate of perfectly spiced samosas from a new Indian spot while trying to get a video of the singers from Ellen’s Stardust Diner belting out a showstopper. Another time, I found myself in a passionate debate with a fellow foodie about whether the jerk chicken from Jasmine’s Caribbean Cuisine was a better representation of the island than Havana Central’s Cuban sandwich. The “tastes” are intentionally small (and all under $10), which means you can sample a little bit of everything. I’ve been known to make a game of it, trying to hit as many of the 30+ participating restaurants as possible.
The event is a testament to the Times Square Alliance’s commitment to showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the area. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the people, the music, and the shared experience of discovering something new. So, on September 8th, grab your friends, your appetite, and your credit card (they use a convenient wristband system!), and get ready for a night of bites, beats, and Broadway. You can even save 20% by purchasing your wristband in advance at TSQ.org/Taste.
The next time you’re in New York, be sure to check out what the city’s food bloggers are up to.
For a taste of the atmosphere, this video gives a good overview of a past event. Taste of Times Square returns. This video shows the lively atmosphere of a past Taste of Times Square event.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know for Your Times Square Foodie Adventure
Q: Do I need a ticket to enter the Taste of Times Square? A: No, entry to the event is free! The public plazas are open to everyone. However, to purchase food and drinks, you will need to get a wristband.
Q: How do the food and drink purchases work? A: All “tastes” are under $10. You will receive a wristband at the event that you can link to your credit or debit card. You can then use this wristband to make all your purchases at the participating restaurant booths. This cashless system makes for a smooth and easy experience.
Q: Can I save money by buying my wristband in advance? A: Yes! You can save 20% by purchasing your wristband ahead of time at TSQ.org/Taste. Advance wristbands are sold with either a $25 or $50 value, and you avoid the $1 onsite activation fee.
Q: What kind of food will be available? A: The event features over 30 restaurants, offering a diverse range of global cuisines. You can expect to find everything from Mexican, Caribbean, and Italian to Indian and classic American barbecue. The list of participating restaurants is on the Times Square Alliance website.
Q: What kind of entertainment can I expect? A: In addition to the delicious food, there will be live music and entertainment from several of the participating restaurants that have live acts at their establishments. Past events have featured Broadway showstoppers and Caribbean and Russian folk music, so there’s always a lively soundtrack to your culinary journey.
Q: Is the event rain or shine? A: Yes, the Taste of Times Square will go on rain or shine, unless there is a national weather emergency.
