Top Underrated Gourmet Fast Food Joints in Your City: New York Edition
These hidden gems serve chef-inspired meals at affordable prices, proving that “fast” doesn’t have to mean basic. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these underrated NYC fast-casual spots deserve a place on your gourmet radar.
1. Smashed NYC (Lower East Side)
What it is: A hole-in-the-wall burger joint that serves hand-smashed burgers with aged cheddar, house pickles, and buttery brioche buns in under 10 minutes.
Why it’s gourmet-worthy:
• Uses a proprietary beef blend for better texture and flavor
• Optional black truffle mayo or jalapeño aioli upgrades
• Crisp, golden smashed patties made to order
Insider tip: Add the “OG Smashed Fries” tossed in rosemary and garlic oil for a complete gourmet experience at $12 or less.
2. Daily Provisions (Multiple Locations)
What it is: A fast-casual offshoot from Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, known for elevated breakfast sandwiches, roasted veggie bowls, and artisanal crullers.
Why it’s gourmet-worthy:
• Chef-crafted sandwiches with Niman Ranch bacon and pasture-raised eggs
• Bowls featuring roasted sweet potatoes, harissa yogurt, and za’atar-seasoned grains
• Bakes all bread and pastries fresh in-house
Order recommendation: The Roasted Turkey Sandwich with herbed aioli and pickled onions feels like something off a fine dining lunch menu—served in minutes.
3. Taïm (Various Locations)
What it is: A Mediterranean fast-casual spot founded by chef Einat Admony, serving some of NYC’s best falafel, shawarma, and mezze.
Why it’s gourmet-worthy:
• Handmade falafel with imported spices and fresh herbs
• Vegan and gluten-free options built with flavor-forward ingredients like amba mango sauce and za’atar pita
• Small-batch hummus and pickled cabbage made daily
Try this: The Sabich Bowl—roasted eggplant, hard-boiled egg, tahini, and Israeli salad—is a masterclass in texture and flavor.
4. NAYA (Multiple NYC Locations)
What it is: A Lebanese-inspired fast-casual chain gaining momentum with its clean, contemporary take on build-your-own bowls and wraps.
Why it’s gourmet-worthy:
• Uses grass-fed lamb and hormone-free chicken
• House-made toum (garlic sauce), red pepper walnut spread, and sumac-spiced onions
• Fluffy basmati rice and chargrilled vegetables as base options
Bonus: Most meals are under $13 and made-to-order in under 10 minutes. Vegan and keto-friendly choices available.
5. Gong Gan (Flushing, Queens)
What it is: A minimalist Korean café offering upscale Asian fusion pastries, rice bowls, and matcha beverages.
Why it’s gourmet-worthy:
• Bowls feature crispy soy garlic tofu, bulgogi beef, or mushroom japchae
• Aesthetic plating in eco-friendly packaging
• Serves premium teas and specialty matcha lattes using ceremonial-grade powders
Local favorite: The Bulgogi Kimchi Bowl with a soft egg, sesame oil drizzle, and handmade pickles is fast-casual Korean with gourmet flair.
How to Save at Gourmet Chains While Supporting Local
While the spots above are local gems not currently featured on Fluz, you can still stretch your budget by using Fluz at national fast-casual gourmet brands like:
• Cava
• Chipotle
Fluz allows you to purchase digital gift cards for instant cashback—ideal when balancing your gourmet cravings with budget-conscious spending.
