Gray's Papaya Introduce
In the bustling landscape of New York City's fast-food scene, few names evoke a sense of history and local pride quite like Gray's Papaya. Located at 2090 Broadway, New York, NY 10023, this iconic establishment is more than just a hot dog restaurant; it is a true New York institution. Famous for its delicious hot dogs and unique tropical drinks, Gray's Papaya has been a beloved destination for decades, serving up quick, satisfying, and affordable meals to locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere is consistently casual and trendy, with a no-frills approach that is a core part of its charm. It’s a place where the line moves quickly, and the focus is on a great product at a great price. Whether you're a college student on a budget, a tourist looking for an authentic experience, or a New Yorker grabbing a late-night snack, Gray's Papaya offers a taste of the city's unique culinary culture.
The menu at Gray's Papaya is a masterclass in simplicity and focus. While the primary offering is the hot dog, or "frank," as it's affectionately known, the quality and preparation are what set it apart. The hot dogs are grilled to perfection, with a satisfying snap that pairs perfectly with the soft bun. Customers can customize their hot dogs with standard, free toppings like ketchup, mustard, relish, kraut, and onions. The "Recession Special," which includes two hot dogs and a drink, is a legendary deal that provides incredible value, making it a go-to for those seeking a filling meal without breaking the bank. Beyond the hot dogs, the menu also features a selection of breakfast items, including the Breakfast Roll with eggs and cheese, perfect for a quick start to the day. The core of the menu is built on comfort food and quick bites, ensuring that every visit is a satisfying one.
Perhaps the most unique and celebrated part of Gray's Papaya's offerings are its tropical drinks. The Papaya drink, after which the restaurant is named, is a classic, known for its unique fruity and creamy texture. Other popular options include the Banana Daiquiri, Piña Colada, and Coconut Champagne, all of which are refreshingly not too sweet and offer a perfect complement to the savory hot dogs. These drinks are a key part of the "Gray's Papaya experience" and a testament to the brand's long-standing tradition. The combination of a perfectly grilled hot dog and a cold, flavorful tropical drink is an iconic New York pairing. The restaurant also offers standard beverages like coffee, iced coffee, and soda. The entire menu is designed to be a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly solution for any meal, whether it's lunch, dinner, or a late-night craving.
Located at 2090 Broadway, New York, NY 10023, Gray's Papaya holds a prime spot in the heart of the Upper West Side. This central address makes it a convenient and easily accessible destination for a wide range of people. The restaurant is situated on a major street, making it a visible and well-known landmark for locals and tourists alike. Its proximity to various public transportation options, including subway stations and bus routes, ensures that it is easy to reach from virtually any part of the city. For those with mobility challenges, the restaurant features a wheelchair accessible entrance, demonstrating a commitment to serving all members of the community. While there is no dedicated parking lot, there is paid street parking available nearby, a common feature in this bustling part of Manhattan. The convenience of the location, combined with its accessibility, makes Gray's Papaya a practical and reliable choice for a quick and delicious meal.
The location on Broadway is a key component of the restaurant's identity. It's in a lively and well-trafficked area, surrounded by shops, theaters, and residential buildings. The ease of access from public transit is a huge benefit for New Yorkers who rely on the subway and bus systems. The wheelchair accessible entrance is a thoughtful and important feature that ensures a broad range of patrons can visit comfortably. In a dense urban environment like New York, where every step counts, the convenience of a quick and accessible dining spot is highly valued. The presence of paid street parking, while a consideration for drivers, is a standard part of the urban experience. The combination of a top-tier location and a focus on accessibility ensures that Gray's Papaya remains a go-to spot for a delicious and hassle-free meal, solidifying its place as a true New York City landmark.
Gray's Papaya offers a streamlined and efficient set of services that cater to its fast-food model.
- Delivery: Have your favorite hot dogs and tropical drinks delivered right to your home or office.
- Onsite services: The counter service model is highly efficient, ensuring minimal wait times even when the line is long.
- Takeout: Grab your order to go and enjoy it on the move, a perfect option for those with busy schedules.
These service options highlight the restaurant's commitment to speed and convenience. The delivery service is a modern and practical addition, allowing patrons to enjoy the iconic taste of Gray's Papaya without leaving the comfort of their home or office. The core of the experience, however, is the onsite service. The efficient counter staff and streamlined ordering process ensure that the line moves quickly, a highlight that is particularly appreciated by New Yorkers. The takeout option is ideal for those who want a quick, delicious meal to eat on the go. This focus on efficiency and speed is a core part of the Gray's Papaya experience, and it is what makes it a reliable choice for a quick and satisfying bite, no matter the time of day.
Gray's Papaya stands out with several key features and highlights that define its unique appeal.
- Fast service: The restaurant is famous for its incredibly fast and efficient service, ensuring that you are served quickly even during peak hours.
- Serves local specialty: The hot dog, a New York staple, is elevated to an art form here, making it a must-try local experience.
- Recession Special: This famous deal provides exceptional value, offering two hot dogs and a drink for a very affordable price.
- Late-night food: The restaurant is a reliable source of late-night food, perfect for after a night out or a late work shift.
- Tropical Drinks: The unique and flavorful tropical drinks, like the Papaya and Banana Daiquiri, are a signature highlight that sets the restaurant apart.
- Casual and trendy atmosphere: The no-frills, counter-service atmosphere is a core part of the brand's identity and a reflection of its authentic New York feel.
These highlights demonstrate that Gray's Papaya is more than just a place to eat; it is an experience. The fast service and the focus on a local specialty are key selling points that resonate with New Yorkers. The "Recession Special" is an iconic part of the restaurant's history and a testament to its commitment to affordability. The unique tropical drinks provide a refreshing and memorable element, while the late-night food option makes it a dependable choice when most other places are closed. The casual and trendy atmosphere is what makes it feel like a true New York institution. These features collectively make Gray's Papaya a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an authentic, delicious, and affordable meal in the city.
For any inquiries or to place an order, you can contact Gray's Papaya directly. The restaurant's contact information is as follows:
Address: 2090 Broadway, New York, NY 10023, USA
Phone: (212) 799-0243
Mobile Phone: +1 212-799-0243
The clear and accessible contact information makes it easy for patrons to get in touch. Whether you're calling to inquire about a delivery, ask about store hours, or simply have a general question, the staff is ready to assist. The availability of both a landline and a mobile number provides added convenience, ensuring that you can reach them from any device. This direct line of communication helps streamline the customer experience, making it as smooth and stress-free as possible. It is a simple but crucial detail that adds to the overall reliability and professional nature of the establishment.
Gray's Papaya is a worthwhile choice for a variety of reasons that are perfectly suited to the New York lifestyle. Its prime Upper West Side location makes it a convenient stop for a wide range of activities. The menu's focus on a classic hot dog with exceptional value, as well as the unique tropical drinks, ensures a satisfying and memorable culinary experience every time. The fast and efficient service is a practical benefit that New Yorkers value immensely. Furthermore, the restaurant’s commitment to providing a delicious and affordable meal in a casual and authentic setting makes it a true neighborhood staple. Whether you're a local in need of a quick bite, a student on a budget, or a tourist looking for a genuine taste of the city, Gray's Papaya is a dependable and essential part of the New York food scene. It is a place you can always count on for a quality meal and a piece of city history.
Gray's Papaya Menu
Beverages
- Tea $1.50
- Iced Coffee $2.00
- Hot Chocolate $2.00
- Pineapple Juice $6.00
Pineapple juice, freshly extracted. Available sizes: medium (16 oz), large (32 oz).
- Coffee $1.50
- Bottled Water $1.50
- Soda $2.50
Beverages
- Soda $2.50
- Tea $1.50
- Coffee $1.50
- Iced Coffee $2.00
- Hot Chocolate $2.00
- Pineapple Juice $4.75
Pineapple juice, freshly extracted. available sizes: medium (16 oz), large (32 oz).
- Bottled Water $1.50
Specials
- Local Special $4.50
1 frank & medium tropical drink
- Recession Special $6.95
2 franks & medium tropical drink
- Addicted To Gray's $9.95
3 franks & large tropical drink
Breakfast
- Breakfast Roll - Eggs, Cheese & Ham, Bacon, Or Sausage $2.75
- Breakfast Roll - Eggs, Cheese, And A Frank $3.70
Specials
- Addicted To Gray's $11.50
3 franks & large tropical drink
- Recession Special $8.50
2 franks & medium tropical drink
- Local Special $6.00
1 frank & medium tropical drink
Tropical Drinks
- Orange $3.00
- Coconut Champagne $3.00
- Papaya $3.00
Papaya juice available in regular, medium, or large sizes.
- Banana Daiquiri $3.00
- Piña Colada $3.00
- Grape $3.00
Breakfast Specials
- Breakfast Special 1 $3.00
Coffee and breakfast sandwich with egg, cheese and ham, bacon or sausage.
- Breakfast Special 2 $3.95
Coffee and breakfast sandwich with egg, cheese and a frank.
Tropical Drinks
- Coconut Champagne $4.70
- Papaya $5.75
Papaya juice available in regular, medium, or large sizes.
- Piña Colada $4.70
- Banana Daiquiri $4.70
- Orange $4.70
- Grape $4.70
Franks
- Value Pack $35.00
12 franks to go
- Frank $3.25
Frank with ketchup, mustard, sauerkraut, onions, relish
Franks
- Value Pack $30.00
12 franks to go
- Frank $2.95
Frank with ketchup, mustard, sauerkraut, onions, relish
Gray's Papaya Details
Service options
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
Highlights
- Fast service
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Parking
Gray's Papaya Photos










Gray's Papaya Location
Gray's Papaya Reviews
pina coladafruit juicemoviecoconutcelebritysmoothiebreakfast sandwichanthony bourdainkrautonion sauce
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1We went to Gray's Papaya for lunch as a party of four. The line was short, so we were served quickly. We each ordered two hot dogs and a drink. The standard toppings like ketchup, mustard, relish, kraut and onions are free. You can add other toppings as well for a reasonable price. I went with ketchup on one and sauerkraut and mustard on the other. The kraut and mustard was my favorite! I love the combination of the soft bun, the roasted sausage and the tasty toppings. I also tried their famous Papaya drink, which has a unique fruity flavor and a somehow creamy texture. Beyond the food, you can really feel the history and tradition of this classic NYC eatery.
September 15 · Dani A.Everyone there just seems happy to be alive.Cool place. $2.75 for a breakfast sandwich. $3.25 for a hot dog. Fun drinks that are super refreshing and surprisingly not too sweet!! The banana daiquiri kinda slapped. I love the artificial banana flavour, so good.The line moves quick, obviously. There’s place to stand and eat.
July 21 · Cassia AFinally made it to the original Gray’s Papaya on Broadway! The hot dog was delicious — perfectly grilled with that classic snap. Several options for toppings... relish, sauerkraut ,mustard, onions. A true NYC must-try spot.
September 07 · Georgia PanagiotakosThe iconic spot has been serving up delicious dogs for what feels like forever. It's amazing how this simple dog still satisfies so many hungry people. You can't beat the feeling of holding that classic, juicy dog in your hands. This landmark is truly a must-visit for any foodie or tourist in the city. With every bite, it is a bite of history.
September 09 · Vasillis StoimenosFast paced, in and out, no frills hot dogs & drinks combos. Good value for money in NYC, with 3 hot dogs + toppings and drink being roughly ~ $12.No seating, all standing counter space and outside high tops, so if it’s packed at all then you’re taking it to go or going to stand and eat.Classic relish, onion sauce, and sauerkraut toppings spice up the basic hot dog. Nothing too special, just satisfying, classic taste. If you enjoy those toppings normally, definitely add them, they’re free. Good flavor, but don’t expect anything extraordinary.A great accompaniment is their sweet papaya juice, almost tasting like a sweet, papaya milkshake, it’s more on the sweet end than true papaya flavor, so if you really want to taste the fruit fully, you may be disappointed, however, it is refreshing, especially on a hot day.I would say, be ready to order once you get to the counter, the service and line moves quick. Overall, a good experience each time I’ve been.
September 01 · Christian Dinsmore
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