Junior's Restaurant & Bakery

"Sure, the original location of Junior’s in Downtown Brooklyn does feel a bit like a Johnny Rockets, down to the dozens of newspaper clippings of New York sports legends like Stephon Marbury on the walls. The classic 1950s diner (there are newer locations across the city, including Times Square) is well set up for tourists, with its red leather booths, theater marquee exterior, and blasting juke jams. And the food is mostly skippable—though a juicy, massive cheeseburger is a pleasantly well-seasoned surprise. But that's not why you come to Junior's. You come for the near-perfect New York cheesecake that’s so thick you’ll struggle to get it all off your fork, even after you’ve scraped your teeth against the tines. It’s tangy, it's sweet, and it’s slightly brown on top. It's worth stopping in for a slice, or picking up a cake to go. They have various sizes, and the graham cracker crust doesn’t get soggy. photo credit: Will Hartman photo credit: Will Hartman photo credit: Will Hartman photo credit: Will Hartman" - Will Hartman

"This Brooklyn landmark — convenient to the Manhattan Bridge, BQE, and a slew of subways — has been around since 1950. It started life as a Jewish deli, but over the years, it extended its menu to better reflect Brooklyn’s population. Besides matzo ball soup, latkes, and a range of reubens (one with turkey), it also offers barbecued pork ribs, Philly cheesesteaks, fried calamari, avocado toasts — and all-day breakfasts. Pro tip: Save room for the cheesecake." - Eater Staff

"Owner Alan Rosen made news in 2014 when he rejected a $45 million offer from developers to buy the famed Downtown Brooklyn location of his diner, known for its cheesecake. The Rosen family debuted Junior’s in 1950 and have since opened four additional locations, but the promise of cash couldn't persuade him to sell the original. “This is more than a restaurant,” he said at the time. “It's our roots, tradition and heritage, and it is just not sellable.”" - Eater Staff

"You can’t miss Junior’s on the corner of Flatbush and DeKalb with it’s ginormous red, flashing signage. Serving cheesecake and greasy-spoon plates since 1950. Junior’s has been such an iconic part of Brooklyn that Mayor Bill De Blasio named November 3rd ‘Junior’s Day’ to commemorate their 65th anniversary, and President Obama stops by whenever he’s in town to buy their famous cheesecake. Everything about the restaurant is big, with three separate seating areas, two bars and a bakery. Pastrami sandwiches the size of your face, sundaes almost a foot tall, and a six page menu filled with all the essential all-American offerings. Make sure you save room for dessert—twelve different cheesecake flavors including carrot cake and red velvet. Perfect for a large group, small group or just a slice for one at the bar." - This Also

"Beloved New York City deli Junior’s announced that it had teamed up with indie candle purveyor Literie to create a candle scented just like the Brooklyn favorite’s famed strawberry cheesecake. According to a release, the candle “has notes of vanilla, strawberry, and a wink of cream cheese,” and retails for $45." - Amy McCarthy