TLDR
NYC hot dog institution w/ famous papaya juice. Classic dogs, snappy texture, & underrated fruity drinks.
Details
Step into a New York City institution that has been serving up classic American fare since the 1930s. While the original location has changed, the iconic hot dogs remain a draw, known for their juicy, snappy texture. Pair your dog with a variety of toppings and don't forget to try their famous, underrated papaya juice.
Food Overview
Primarily known for its American-style hot dogs, this establishment offers a classic experience. While some find the hot dogs to be a bit tangy or less balanced than other 'papaya' themed spots, many still appreciate the snappy texture and the iconic papaya juice, which is often cited as an underrated favorite. There are also mentions of square knishes and fries.
Caveats
Some customers feel the quality has declined from its peak, or that the current iteration is not the 'original' Papaya King. The price has also been noted as higher than it once was.
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About PAPAYA
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: What Food Starts Increasing In Your Life When
"Notes that Papaya King is good but has become pricy."
NeutralFrom post: What Food Starts Increasing In Your Life When
"Provides recommendations for NYC hot dogs, including Papaya King, noting that some previously favored spots are now closed."
PositiveFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user would skip both Gray's Papaya and Papaya King, finding them disappointing and wishing for a good Chicago hot dog place."
NegativeFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user asserts that the current iteration of Papaya King is not 'original'."
NegativeFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user enthusiastically recommends the 'Coconut champagne' drink."
PositiveFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user reminisces about Papaya Dog on 6th Ave and Fulton St."
NeutralFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user states Papaya King is not on its original corner, has new owners, and is not authentic, suggesting Queens for an authentic experience."
NegativeFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user suggests that while both Papaya King and Gray's are good, the current Papaya King location is less appealing than Gray's."
NeutralFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user claims both Gray's Papaya and Papaya King now use deep fryers for their dogs, making them oily and disgusting, contrasting with past grilling methods."
NegativeFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user likes the papaya and piña colada drinks at Papaya King."
PositiveFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user finds the hot dogs at Papaya King awful and suggests Kirkland brand hot dogs are better."
NegativeFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user agrees that Gray's Papaya is a good choice but disagrees about the papaya drink, preferring the orange drink, though they concede the papaya drink is better for a tourist's story."
NeutralFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user finds the hot dogs comparable at both places but prefers Gray's Papaya for its vibe and original location. They suggest the 'Original' combo and note Papaya King's proximity to certain attractions."
NeutralFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"A brief suggestion to try both Gray's Papaya and Papaya King."
NeutralFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user states the original Papaya King has moved a block away and has new owners, making it totally different and nowhere near as good."
NegativeFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user states the original Papaya King has closed, the new location is expensive and lacks charm, making it less recommended than Gray's."
NegativeFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user suggests skipping both Gray's Papaya and Papaya King."
NegativeFrom post: Grays Papaya Or Og Papaya King For Nyc Tourist
"This user previously preferred Papaya King but now finds the remaining location subpar."
NegativeFrom post: Nyc Food Bucket List Add To My List
"Papaya King up on 86th is recommended for two hot dogs with sauerkraut and ketchup, paired with a tropical fruit beverage like coconut champagne."
PositiveFrom post: Are Hot Dog Carts Still A Thing In The City
"The author points out that there is only one Papaya King location left in the city, and it is also becoming a rarity."
Negative