Here are some items to keep in mind:
Fruit Stands are great ways to get fresh fruit when you need it, for very low prices. Sometimes these stands even have huge sales on fruit that cannot stay much longer. This is a good opportunity to take, keeping in mind that the fruit might not last you more than a couple days. It works out great when you want something for the moment or later on in the evening, because you can get amazing deals that no other store in the area can compete with.
Newspaper Stands are another great way to save. Get great things on the go, and don't even think about stepping foot into a Duane Reade again. Here you can find snacks, magazines, soda, and water for as cheap as it'll get. Keep in mind, that in tourist areas, such as Times Square or Central Park, they'll want to charge more. The golden rule: Never pay more than $1 for anything here (excluding big items). Water, soda, candy = $1. Pay any more and you are paying too much.
Food Carts are what the locals do. This is what we love. It is affordable, fresh, and gives you a taste of the real city life. I often grab my coffee and bagel from here in the morning, buy a snack and sit on a bench in the park, or just eat it on the go. There are always people purchasing at these stands so the food is fresh, so don't you worry. Sometimes in certain cities there are "themed" food carts. I've had the best waffles at a waffle cart, best tacos at a taco cart, etc. Basically, any type of food you crave? Yup, there's a cart for that. Check out NYMag for a listing of the top carts from 2010, which most of them are still doing business today.
