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Historical delis

Exploring the past works up an appetite that only a stacked deli sandwich can satisfy.

Based on 555 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Chiaramonte's Deli & Sausages image 1
Chiaramonte's Deli & Sausages image 2
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Old-school Italian deli with 117-year family history and original 1920s decor creates a strong sense of tradition and community. Atmosphere feels like a step back in time with vintage photos and family memorabilia lining the walls. Quiet and unpretentious, it draws those seeking authentic, longstanding neighborhood flavor.

Original pictures from over the decades line the walls, showing the deli's long history. Established in 1908, it stands as the oldest family-owned eatery in the area, with owners often sharing stories that make it feel like a step back in time.

Authentic Italian sandwiches and old school deli vibes stand out here. The unbeatable sausage and family atmosphere add to the genuine deli experience.

People are saying

"This old-school Italian deli has been family-owned for over 100 years."

"This old-school Italian deli feels like it's from the early 1900s."

"It feels like stepping back in time with this place's historical sites."

Good to know

1

Chiaramonte's Deli & Sausages has been family-owned since 1908, making it the oldest deli in the area.

2

The deli offers both indoor and outdoor seating, though outdoor seating is limited.

3

Sandwiches are reasonably priced, with options starting around $13.

02
Tonyโ€™s French Dips image 1

Sandwich shop with a 90s vibe and old school sawdust floor creates a cozy, deli atmosphere. Friendly staff serve beef dip and pastrami sandwiches that many consider among the best around. Decor feels outdated and unique, evoking a nostalgic, lived-in charm.

Strong ties to local history stand out here. The spot holds a clear place in Pomona's past.

Food here never disappoints, showing consistent quality over decades. The deli offers a unique atmosphere that captures the feel of the late 1940s and 50s, adding to the overall experience.

People are saying

"I thought the French dip sandwich was amazing."

"I found the history here really fun."

"The pastrami at this deli is lean, tender, and the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The prices at Tonyโ€™s French Dips are very reasonable.

2

Everything is ordered ร  la carte.

3

The sides were an extra charge.

03
Canyon Country Store image 1
Convenience store

Country store with vintage decor and walls covered in 60s-70s rock photos creates a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. Porch offers canyon views that add to the tranquil, colorful vibe. Locals and visitors gather here, drawn by its historic music legacy and community charm.

A living piece of rock and roll history from the '60s and '70s fills the store. The owner shares its free-spirited vibe and offers tours highlighting its hippie culture roots.

A nice deli offers scrumptious sandwiches and tasty dishes. Photos and memorabilia add a vintage vibe to the grocery and deli area.

People are saying

"This place is a historical site where rock and roll of the sixties began."

"This local spot feels like a piece of history, a true gathering place."

"The deli sandwiches here are scrumptious and tasty."

Good to know

1

The deli at Canyon Country Store offers a variety of sandwiches and snacks.

2

Expect higher prices than typical supermarkets for deli items.

3

Canyon Country Store hosts community events and festivals throughout the year.

04
Katz's Delicatessen image 1

Rustic deli with tight seating and a nostalgic 70s decor creates a crowded, lively atmosphere. Meat carvers serve as a focal point, offering tastings that engage diners. Walls display celebrity portraits, adding to the historic vibe.

A landmark rich in history feels like a temple of New York history. It stands as an iconic spot deeply tied to the community's past.

Pastrami sandwich stands out as a legendary classic here, setting the standard for deli sandwiches. The deli serves authentic Jewish delicacies in a bustling, iconic New York atmosphere.

People are saying

"The pastrami sandwich here is piled high and melt-in-your-mouth tender."

"The historical sites here are piled high and ridiculously good."

"The deli's pastrami and brisket sandwiches are so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The wait for the Katz Pastrami Sandwich can be an hour long.

2

You can only pay with cash at the front of the restaurant.

3

Do not lose your tickets even if you haven't used them to order anything.

05
Magee's Kitchen image 1

Deli inside a historic market offers a nostalgic atmosphere with views overlooking bustling crowds. The vibe feels homey and comforting, drawing fans of old-school deli sandwiches. Lines can get long during busy times, reflecting its status as a longstanding local institution.

Located inside the historic Farmers Market, the spot offers a strong sense of nostalgia. The setting within the Original Farmerโ€™s Market highlights its historical significance.

Classic deli fare shines with old-school sandwiches served for over 100 years. This spot stands out as a famous deli known for solid, traditional options at the Farmers Market.

People are saying

"The Reuben here has juicy meat and perfectly toasted bread."

"The deli's pastrami is tender, smoky, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious."

"The pastrami and corned beef here are tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect long lines during peak hours.

2

Parking can be challenging with limited spaces and high rates after 90 minutes.

3

Customers order at the counter and pick up their food at the carving station.

06
Russ & Daughters image 1

Narrow, small shop with no indoor seating and often crowded atmosphere. The vibe is old school, evoking a sense of history and tradition with a calm, unhurried pace despite the crowd. Outdoor benches offer brief respite while enjoying classic bagel and lox combinations.

Smells of history, family, and legacy fill the air, creating an atmosphere rich with cultural heritage. The place stands as a true landmark offering an immersive taste of New York's past.

Offers classic Jewish deli fare with a focus on bagels and lox. Serves as a traditional appetizing shop known for its authentic deli experience.

People are saying

"I thought the salmon bagel was the best I ever had."

"It's a classic New York deli with an authentic, timeless vibe."

"This place is a historic icon, like stepping into living history."

Good to know

1

You must take a number when you first enter to be served.

2

There is no dine-in option; it's takeout only.

3

Expect long wait times, often over an hour, especially after 10am.

07
Zabar's image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Gourmet grocery store with old-world charm and an edgy omni-deli ambiance filled with the aroma of specialty cheeses and coffee. Crowded with serious shoppers, the atmosphere can feel tense but remains a local institution known for its unique bakery and extensive gourmet cookwear upstairs.

A classic Upper West Side landmark that feels like a piece of New York history. It serves as a monument to gourmet deliciousness and offers a chance to connect with a rich family legacy.

Offers a fantastic selection of baked goods, cheeses, and deli meats. Feels like a deli on steroids with everything you could want from a delicatessen and more.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were the greatest ever."

"I found the deli here had an amazing selection of specialty items."

"It's a historical site that feels like stepping into a movie."

Good to know

1

Parking is abysmal, so plan accordingly.

2

There is no restroom available for customers.

3

The #1 subway stop is right next to Zabar's for easy access.

08
Johnnie's Pastrami image 1

Retro diner with 1950s Googie-style design and vintage counter seating creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Two outdoor patios feature fire pits and small jukeboxes at tables, adding to the old-school vibe. The space is small and cozy, inviting a relaxed, classic dining experience.

A historic 50's era Googie-style stand shapes the dining spot with a strong sense of history. The place holds a lot of stories and reflects mid-century design.

Offers a casual late-night spot with salty deli meats that resemble a NYC deli sandwich. The style differs from traditional Jewish delis but provides a solid alternative.

People are saying

"I loved the place and felt a vintage feeling."

"It's a historic place with a lot of interesting history."

"You have to try the pastrami at this Deli; it's steamed and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a dedicated lot behind the restaurant.

2

Credit cards are accepted, along with cash payments.

3

Prices for two pastrami combos are around $60.

09
Defonte's Sandwich Shop image 1

Old-school sandwich shop with Italian pictures on walls and a fast-paced, festive atmosphere. No indoor seating, but picnic tables outside offer a casual spot to eat. Only cash payments accepted, adding to the basic, no-frills vibe.

An incredible piece of New York history lives in this historic sandwich shop. Its deep roots add a strong historical vibe to the place.

Old school deli vibe with flavorful sandwiches that satisfy. It feels like a classic neighborhood spot with everything expected from an iconic New York deli.

People are saying

"I had the best sandwiches I've ever had here."

"It's a great vintage spot with an old-school atmosphere."

"I visited this historic sandwich shop; it's an incredible piece of history."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash; the ATM on site has a $3.50 fee.

2

Customers should come hungry because they serve large portions.

3

They only serve shrimp sandwiches on Fridays.

10
Junior's Restaurant & Bakery image 1
American restaurant

Large space filled with retro decor like mirrors and tin ceilings creates a vintage Brooklyn vibe. Oldies music plays, adding to the authentic American atmosphere. Known for legendary cheesecake and classic dishes, it offers a nostalgic dining experience.

Filled with rich history, this spot stands as a culinary landmark and a true Brooklyn institution. It embodies the spirit of New York through its classic atmosphere and comfort food.

Offers a variety of classic New York deli dishes like pastrami, corned beef sandwiches, and cheesecake. Includes deli staples such as chicken salad and tuna salad with solid quality.

People are saying

"I thought the cheesecake here was the best I ever had."

"The cheesecake here is iconic and comes in so many delicious flavors."

"You have to try the cheesecake; it's rich, tangy, and iconic."

Good to know

1

Joining the waitlist on Yelp before arriving is recommended to save on waiting time.

2

A milk shake is $10, and sandwiches start around $20.

3

There is absolutely no parking on 45th street.

11
Barney Greengrass image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Old school New York deli with cramped seating and an authentic vintage vibe. Staff maintain a classic atmosphere while outdoor seating offers a more spacious option. The place feels cozy yet bustling, reflecting true Upper West Side character.

Offers a culinary legacy with over a century of history. Serves as a true New York City institution and a landmark comparable to Katz in the East Village.

Specializes in smoked fish and Jewish-style breakfast, offering an authentic, old school New York Jewish deli experience. Known for traditional dishes and a century-old deli atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the salmon bagel sandwich worth every penny."

"It's a true old-world Jewish deli experience."

"The smoked fish here is unparalleled, perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

This restaurant only accepts cash; no credit cards are allowed.

2

Cash is the only payment method, so come prepared.

3

Expect long lines; visit during the week for shorter waits.

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