Eileen's Special Cheesecake

"Cheesecake is one of those quintessential New York foodstuffs that in some circles is thought of as unsophisticated. Certainly its name does not roll off the tongue like tiramisù, or tarte Tatin. But cheesecake at its best is a perfect sweet -- a smooth, creamy confection with only a hint of tart."  The New York Times on Cheesecake

I think every New Yorker would agree when I say that Cheesecake is one of those New York quintessential foods, alongside pizza and hot dogs. Finding the best cheesecake place in NY is a difficult task, as every restaurant probably offers their variation of the New York Cheesecake. Many would argue that Junior's is the best cheesecake place in the city. Junior's has been known for over 50 years as the "restaurant that is known to be the home of the best cheesecake." However, I am going to go ahead and make a very strong statement (many will contradict this) that the best cheesecake I have found in New York is at Eileen's Special Cheesecake located at 17 Cleveland Place in NoLita. 

Eilleen has been baking for nearly 40 years as one of New York City's top bakers. She started baking in her apartment back in 1973. Her fabulous cheesecake started selling by word of mouth. In December 1975 she opened her bakery at the current location. Soon word starting getting out that Eilleen had the best cheesecake in town. They eventually began shipping cheesecakes overnight to anywhere in the US. According to ESC's site " Eileen has been praised as New York's Best Cheesecake by Celebrity Chefts, The Zagat guide, WOR Radio, and nationally recognized food critics."

My suggestion: Mini-cheesecake to go: Original ($3.50). Not in the cheesecake mood? Try the White Chocolate Raspberry Mousse (6": $18.00)

FUN FACT: Eileen's original cheesecake recipe was her mom's. 

Eileen's is open every day Monday-Friday from 9AM-9PM; Saturday and Sunday from 10AM till 7PM.

Feel like contradicting me? Please do! I am the biggest cheesecake fan... i don't mind trying as many as it takes! However, I am sure that the cheesecake will be from NY. New York is definitely the world capital for Cheesecake.

"In a city of constant ethnic flux, cheesecake is itself a constant, offering something for everyone." The New York Times