The 8 Best Savory Pancakes in NYC – October 2025

Picture this: who says all pancakes need to be topped with syrup? Don’t get us wrong, we love a sweet pancake drenched in maple, but our love for pancakes goes far beyond that – to the many cultures and cuisines that have their own savory versions. With countless dining options in the city, narrowing down the best can feel overwhelming. We’ve got you covered with a curated list of eight standout savory pancakes, from Korean pajeon loaded with seafood to Burmese creations stuffed with fresh veggies. These dishes showcase the diversity and flavor of NYC’s food scene.

Finding a great savory pancake takes more than a quick online search. The top ones balance texture and taste, turning basic ingredients into unforgettable bites, whether it’s a crispy scallion pancake or delicate Sri Lankan hoppers. At 8it, we compile insights from trusted culinary critics, respected food media, and top chefs to ensure every pick on this list stands out. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into NYC’s finest savory pancakes.

1. Beef Scallion Pancake at Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings – Flushing

Craving a hearty twist on a classic? Nan Xiang in Flushing fills their scallion pancake with savory beef, making it a full meal. The flaky, crispy exterior contrasts with the rich filling of beef and aromatic scallions. Each bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures. Located in Flushing’s vibrant food hub, this spot nails the balance between delicate pastry and bold flavors. Download 8it for free to uncover more spots like this.

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2. Hoppers at Lakruwana

Looking for elegance in a pancake? Lakruwana’s Sri Lankan hoppers, made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, form a bowl shape with crispy edges and a soft center. Their slight tang pairs beautifully with curries, especially the restaurant’s lamb curry, blending rich spices with varied textures. Experience this unique dish and find similar options on 8it.

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3. Kimchi Pancake at New Wonjo

Want a spicy start to your meal? New Wonjo’s Korean kimchi pancake, or kimchijeon, turns fermented cabbage into a crispy, addictive appetizer. The charred exterior adds smokiness, while the tangy, spicy kimchi bursts with umami in every bite. It’s a perfect way to kick off any dining experience.

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4. Seafood Pancake at Ziggle Tofu & Grill – Manhattan, NYC

Seeking a seafood-packed bite? Ziggle’s Korean pajeon stands out with fresh seafood and scallions in a thick, flavorful pancake. The crispy outside contrasts with tender seafood inside, and pairing it with kimchi adds a sharp, acidic balance to the richness. Find more reviews and seafood dishes on 8it.

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5. Burmese Pancake at Little Myanmar

Curious about a unique pancake style? Little Myanmar offers a Burmese version stuffed with cabbage, tomato, cilantro, chiles, and fried chickpeas. The chickpeas bring crunch, while chiles add a subtle heat that pairs with fresh ingredients. This dish shows how diverse cultures interpret savory pancakes in distinct ways.

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6. Buckwheat Pancake at Smithereens

Interested in an American take? Smithereens uses a buckwheat base for an earthy, nutty flavor, topped with maple butter and bluefish. The sweet butter and rich fish create a balanced sweet-savory profile. Critics and chefs on 8it often share early news about pop-ups and new dishes like this.

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7. Buckwheat Pancakes at Veselka Williamsburg

Need a comforting classic? Veselka’s buckwheat pancakes highlight the grain’s earthy taste, making them a versatile base for eggs or other proteins. Their dense texture and subtle bitterness enhance rather than overshadow other flavors. Download 8it for free to explore more timeless pairings.

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8. Clam Cake at Found Oyster

Looking for coastal flavors? Found Oyster’s clam cake blends New England clam cake and Southern hushpuppy styles into a crispy, tender pancake. Its briny, slightly sweet taste captures American coastal cooking at its best, standing out in the savory pancake category for its creative execution.

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Compare Finding NYC’s Best Dishes: Traditional Search vs. 8it App

Searching for great savory pancakes the old way means browsing restaurants first, hoping they have a worthy option. With 8it, download for free and focus on the dish itself. From Korean pajeon to Sri Lankan hoppers, you’ll know exactly what to order before stepping inside.

Your Guide to Finding Savory Pancake Gems in NYC

What Defines an Exceptional Savory Pancake in NYC?

NYC’s top savory pancakes shine in texture, flavor balance, and cultural roots. Dishes like Nan Xiang’s beef scallion pancake or Ziggle’s seafood pajeon feature crispy outsides with flavorful insides. They also balance tastes, like the tangy kick of New Wonjo’s kimchi pancake or the sweet-savory mix at Smithereens. Finally, they honor their origins while fitting local preferences, making them authentic yet approachable.

How Can You Uncover Hidden Savory Pancake Spots?

Finding lesser-known savory pancake gems means looking past standard search tools. Many top dishes hide in restaurants not known for pancakes, like Lakruwana’s hoppers or Little Myanmar’s creation. The 8it app helps by prioritizing specific dishes over broad categories. Use the “I Want” wheel to filter by pancake styles or get tips from critics who know regional variations. You’ll also spot limited-time offerings and pop-ups where chefs test new ideas.

Does Seasonality Affect Savory Pancake Options?

Many savory pancakes are available all year, but seasonal ingredients can elevate them. Korean spots often use peak-season veggies in pajeon, while Smithereens may switch fish based on availability. Fall and winter suit heavier options like Nan Xiang’s beef pancake, while spring brings lighter, herb-focused versions. Track seasonal specials and menu updates with real-time notifications on the 8it app.

How Should You Pair Savory Pancakes for a Full Meal?

Savory pancakes shine when paired thoughtfully with other dishes. Korean options at New Wonjo or Ziggle match well with kimchi for an acidic contrast to fried richness. Lakruwana’s hoppers are built for curries, doubling as a utensil. American styles at Smithereens or Veselka work with simple proteins or salads to keep flavors balanced. Consider each pancake’s cultural role, whether it’s the main focus or a complement.

How Do You Stay Updated on Limited-Time Pancake Offerings?

Keeping up with short-term savory pancake specials requires the right tools. Social media posts from restaurants are easy to miss. The 8it app gathers these updates in one place, with a “Pop-Ups and Drops” section for temporary dishes. Follow specific spots on the app for instant alerts on new variations or seasonal items. Critics and chefs also share early news about menu changes through the platform.

Why NYC’s Savory Pancake Scene Stands Out

NYC’s savory pancake offerings reflect the city’s incredible diversity, moving beyond breakfast into global culinary traditions. Nan Xiang’s beef scallion pancakes bring richness, while Lakruwana’s hoppers elegantly hold curries. New Wonjo and Ziggle master Korean flavors with kimchi and seafood options, and Little Myanmar introduces a fresh Burmese take with veggies and chickpeas.

American twists at Smithereens and Veselka rethink the concept with buckwheat and bluefish, showing innovation rooted in tradition. Found Oyster’s clam cake merges coastal styles into a unique bite. Together, these eight spots highlight how one dish can carry endless cultural flavors and techniques, all while staying universally appealing.

Ready to find more hidden food gems with expert guidance? Skip the endless scrolling on Google or Yelp. Download 8it for free and get straight to curated picks for food lovers who value quality over guesswork.