Best Places to Get a Classic New York City Deli Sandwich
New York City is synonymous with a classic deli sandwich, offering some of the best pastrami, corned beef, and Reuben sandwiches in the country. Whether you’re a local or visiting, stopping by a renowned deli is a must. From century-old institutions to neighborhood favorites, these delis serve up sandwiches piled high with quality meats, fresh bread, and time-honored traditions.
The Best Places To Get A Classic New York City Deli Sandwich
1. Katz’s Delicatessen
One of the most famous delis in New York, Katz’s Delicatessen has been serving legendary sandwiches since 1888. Known for its hand-carved meats and massive portions, this Lower East Side institution remains a must-visit.
- Location: 205 E Houston St, Manhattan
- Price Range: Sandwiches start around $20
- Menu Highlights: Pastrami on rye, corned beef sandwich, Reuben
- Good to Know: Cash-only at the counter; card payments accepted at tables
- Website: katzsdelicatessen.com
2. Junior’s Restaurant
Famous for its cheesecake, Junior’s also serves a solid lineup of deli sandwiches. Their corned beef and pastrami sandwiches are made with high-quality meats and are stacked generously.
- Location: Multiple locations, including 386 Flatbush Ave Ext, Brooklyn
- Price Range: Sandwiches from $15-$25
- Menu Highlights: Pastrami on rye, corned beef on rye, brisket sandwich
- Good to Know: Their Times Square location is open late
- Website: juniorscheesecake.com
3. 2nd Ave Deli
A kosher deli with a strong reputation, 2nd Ave Deli is known for its flavorful meats and traditional recipes. Despite moving from its original location, it remains a top spot for authentic Jewish deli sandwiches.
- Location: 162 E 33rd St, Manhattan and 888 2nd Ave, New York
- Price Range: Sandwiches around $20
- Menu Highlights: Hot pastrami, corned beef, tongue sandwich
- Good to Know: Strictly kosher; no dairy products served
- Website: 2ndavedeli.com
4. Liebman’s Delicatessen
Located in the Bronx, Liebman’s Delicatessen has been serving classic Jewish deli fare since 1953. Their sandwiches are well-stacked and full of flavor.
- Location: 552 W 235th St, Bronx and 472 Ashford Ave., Ardsley, NY
- Price Range: Sandwiches from $12-$18
- Menu Highlights: Hot pastrami, corned beef, brisket sandwich
- Good to Know: One of the last remaining kosher delis in the Bronx
- Website: liebmansdeli.com
5. Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner
Sarge’s has been a go-to spot for classic deli sandwiches since 1964. Their sandwiches are famous for their quality and size, like the 10 to 12 inch tall Monster sandwich.
- Location: 548 3rd Ave, Manhattan
- Price Range: Sandwiches from $18-$25
- Menu Highlights: Hot pastrami, corned beef, Reuben, Monster Challenge
- Good to Know: Open 24/7, great for late-night cravings
- Website: sargesdeli.com
6. Pastrami Queen
Known for its thick-cut, juicy pastrami, Pastrami Queen is one of the top spots in New York City for a traditional deli sandwich. It’s a favorite among purists.
- Location: Various locations including the Manhattan Moynihan Food Hall
- Price Range: Sandwiches around $20
- Menu Highlights: Hot pastrami, corned beef, turkey pastrami
- Good to Know: Upper East and Upper West locations are Kosher-certified
- Website: pastramiqueen.com
7. Lenny’s Grill and Deli
A reliable choice for a well-made New York deli sandwich, Lenny’s Grill and Deli serves fresh, high-quality meats in a casual setting.
- Location: 12-64 150th St, New York, NY
- Price Range: Sandwiches from $10
- Menu Highlights: Pastrami, corned beef, and roast beef sandwiches
- Good to Know: They also serve breakfast
- Website: lennysgrillanddeli.com
8. David’s Brisket House
A Brooklyn institution, David’s Brisket House specializes in mouth watering brisket, pastrami, and corned beef sandwiches that rival Manhattan’s delis. All their meats are cooked to perfection in-house.
- Location: 533 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn
- Price Range: Sandwiches from $10-$18
- Menu Highlights: Brisket sandwich, pastrami on rye
- Good to Know: Cash-only; portions are generous
- Website: davidsbriskethouse.com
9. S&P Lunch
Originally established as Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop in 1928, S&P Lunch continues the tradition of serving classic deli fare in the Flatiron District. Known for its nostalgic atmosphere and quality sandwiches, it remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Location: 174 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan
- Price Range: Sandwiches from $10-$20
- Menu Highlights: Tuna salad sandwich, pastrami on rye, egg salad sandwich
- Good to Know: Maintains a vintage lunch counter ambiance
- Website: sandwich.place
10. Mile End Delicatessen
Opened in 2010, Mile End brings a Montreal twist to the traditional New York deli. Known for its smoked meat sandwiches, this Brooklyn-based deli offers a unique take on classic deli fare.
- Location: 97A Hoyt St, Brooklyn
- Price Range: Sandwiches from $12
- Menu Highlights: Smoked meat sandwich, Ruth Wilensky (salami and mustard on a onion roll)
- Good to Know: Combines traditional Jewish deli cuisine with Montreal-style smoked meats.
- Website: mileenddeli.com
New York’s delis have a long-standing tradition of serving hearty, flavorful sandwiches. Whether you’re craving a towering pastrami on rye or a perfectly balanced Reuben, these delis offer some of the best in the city. Exploring these spots is a great way to experience New York City’s food culture one sandwich at a time.
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