There’s something about New York. It has been a lively melting pot of cultures over several generations thanks to the migrants who inhabit its boroughs. Those two factors – drawing the most driven migrants and blending of cultures – have created a thriving food culture that is an essential part of the city.

Perhaps the best representation of this is Rao’s, one of NYC’s most iconic restaurants. It was founded over a century ago, in 1896, in East Harlem, and is now celebrated as a dining destination that is exclusive, proudly traditional, and a piece of history. Getting a table at Rao’s NYC is not an easy thing (more like impossible!) for the average foodie.