Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to New York

Authentic Jewish Delis

A deli that feels like a neighborhood staple, not a tourist-focused imitation of the real thing.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Liebman’s Deli image 1
Liebman’s Deli image 2
Liebman’s Deli image 3
View all
Kosher restaurant

Old-school Jewish deli with 1940s-50s NYC decor and soft white lighting creates a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. The space feels like stepping back in time with authentic art pieces and a classic diner vibe. It draws those seeking a traditional deli experience with a simple, sophisticated setting.

An authentic old-school Jewish deli serving all the classics with pastrami that stands out among others. It offers a traditional and old-fashioned experience that's rare to find these days.

Old school Jewish deli classics come with authentic pastrami and soup. Decor mirrors 1940s-50s NYC style, keeping the atmosphere truly authentic.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and flavorful."

"The pastrami sandwich here is fresh, flavorful, and just right."

"It's an authentic old school Jewish deli experience."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the Key Food lot behind the deli.

2

The special menu costs $30 per person and includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert.

3

A pastrami sandwich costs $25, and prices are generally high.

02
Lido Kosher Delicatessen image 1
Kosher restaurant

Simple, plain setup with a warm, inviting atmosphere captures a classic New York deli vibe. Friendly energy fills the space, offering a peaceful yet lively environment. Known for authentic kosher deli experience and exceptional pastrami sandwiches, it stands out as a neighborhood staple with top-notch traditional flavors.

Authentic Jewish deli food brings back memories of old-fashioned delicatessens. The flavors capture the taste of childhood and offer a genuine Jewish deli experience.

Authentic kosher deli style shines through with generous portions of meats, pickles, and cole slaw. The food delivers a classic Jewish deli experience true to tradition.

People are saying

"The pastrami and corned beef at this deli are the very best."

"The pastrami at this Jewish Deli is spot on delicious and melt-in-your-mouth."

"I experienced authentic kosher deli food with generous portions."

Good to know

1

All meats served are strictly glatt kosher, ensuring high quality.

2

Catering services are available for events, with rave reviews from customers.

3

Delivery is available through Goldbelly, reaching customers nationwide.

03
2nd Ave Deli image 1

Proper sit-down deli with old school diner feel and tooled metal ceiling creates a comfortable, classic NYC kosher atmosphere. The space is quiet and welcoming, offering a warm Jewish New Yorker experience distinct from bustling modern delis.

Offers authentic Jewish deli flavors with a classic New York style. Serves tasty, traditional dishes that feel like a hearty, home-cooked meal.

Offers authentic Kosher deli food with rich flavors that capture Jewish culinary heritage. Provides a real New Yorker deli experience with very tasty, traditional dishes.

People are saying

"This pastrami sandwich is epic, with juicy, smoky meat."

"I found the authentic pastrami piled high on rye."

"I love the tender, flavorful pastrami at this Jewish Deli."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is kosher, so no outside food or drink is allowed.

2

The restaurant only allows 40 minutes to eat after entry.

3

The restaurant closed for sit down dinner at 7:30 PM.

04
Russ & Daughters Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Enjoy classic bagel and lox with rich, smoked fish in a warm, retro diner setting. Servers in white lab coats add a historic Jewish deli touch. Experience authentic New York style brunch that feels like stepping back in time.

Smoked fish and bagels stand out with rich flavor and classic Jewish deli favorites. The selection includes kippered fish and traditional items, all beautifully displayed and full of soul.

The cafe offers an authentic New York style brunch with a focus on traditional appetizing. Decor and atmosphere create a feeling of stepping back in time with a strong sense of history and family generations.

People are saying

"The bagels here are awesome, especially with the smoked salmon."

"This Jewish Deli offers outstanding lox and bagels, rich in flavor and soul."

"It's an authentic taste of Jewish deli history and culture."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is necessary to avoid a wait of over an hour.

2

Expect to wait on busy weekend mornings; arrive early to get on the list.

3

No reservations are accepted, so expect long waits on weekends.

05
S&P Lunch image 1
Restaurant

Old-school diner with nostalgic NYC vibe and classic tiled floors offers a crowded, lively atmosphere blending traditional and quirky decor. It attracts a hipster crowd and maintains the spirit of a bygone era while serving affordable, classic dishes.

Balances high-end Jewish deli flavors with greasy spoon diner classics. Offers old school style NYC Jewish Deli vibe with counter seating. Pickles stand out as very tasty and authentic.

Atmosphere feels like an old style New York diner with a strong NYC Jewish diner vibe. Sandwiches and overall experience deliver a blast from the past authenticity.

People are saying

"I experienced an authentic old school New York diner vibe."

"It's an authentic old-style New York diner experience."

"It's a great old school Jewish deli with classic diner favorites."

Good to know

1

The wait time is about 10 minutes during peak hours.

2

Breakfast is served until 12 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends.

3

A standard-sized tuna melt costs $17 without any sides.

06
Katz's Delicatessen image 1

Rustic deli offers a quintessential Jewish deli vibe with classic pastrami sandwiches that capture authentic New York flavor. Tight seating and lively atmosphere bring a nostalgic 70s decor alive. Meat carvers add a historic touch with engaging tastings.

Offers a quintessential Jewish deli experience with classic dishes and atmosphere. Carries the torch for traditional NYC Jewish deli culture amid the decline of similar delis.

Pastrami sandwiches deliver authentic deli flavor with a classic New York City vibe. The meat is rich and satisfying, capturing the essence of traditional deli fare.

People are saying

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

"It felt like a true piece of New York history."

"The Jewish Deli's pastrami is tender, juicy, 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.

07
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.

Offers a classic Jewish deli experience with a strong reputation. Known for its historical significance and consistent quality in traditional deli fare.

Authentic New York lox and bagels create a genuine Jewish breakfast experience. The atmosphere matches the food's traditional vibe.

People are saying

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

"The smoked fish here is exceptionally fresh and generously sliced."

"The Jewish Deli here has amazing smoked fish, especially the lox."

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.

08
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 genuine old school New York Jewish deli experience with classic dishes like pastrami Reuben sandwiches and bagel and lox. Serves some of the best traditional Jewish deli food and smoked fish available.

An authentic New York Jewish deli vibe fills both the inside and patio, capturing an old school deli atmosphere. Classic dishes like bagel and lox and latkes deliver a genuine taste of the city.

People are saying

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

"The smoked fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

"It's an authentic place with a cozy, traditional NYC vibe."

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.

09
Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner image 1

Quintessential New York deli with nostalgic 1970s-1980s decor and classic American diner vibe. Atmosphere feels genuine and evocative, offering huge booths ideal for groups and a plentiful takeout counter. Small, cozy interior packed with tables creates an intimate, bustling setting.

Old-time Jewish deli smell hits when walking in. Menu features delicious soup and tasty pastrami sandwiches with a retro vibe that recalls classic New York delis.

Offers a real New York Jewish deli experience with honest food that locals respect. Serves authentic delicatessen dishes that feel traditional and low-key.

People are saying

"This pastrami sandwich is delicious and huge."

"It's an authentic old-school deli with generous portions."

"The Jewish Deli's pastrami is piled high and sliced thin."

Good to know

1

The average person should share a plate due to the size of the portions.

2

They add a 3.5% surcharge when you pay your bill with any credit card.

3

If you pay with cash, they will take 5% off the bill.

10
Mile End Deli image 1
Sandwich shop

Cozy space blends Montreal deli style with a laid-back Brooklyn vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating offer comfort, though indoor areas can feel tight. Atmosphere stays quiet and chilled, making it a neighborhood staple with a welcoming feel.

Offers a Montreal-style Jewish deli experience blending traditional Jewish dishes with local specialties. The owner brings authentic Montreal deli flavors to the menu.

Smoked meat sandwiches match the authentic taste of Montreal's Schwartz’s. Nanaimo bars stand out as the most authentic Canadian dessert found here. Food is consistently fresh and made with care.

People are saying

"You have to try the Smoked Meat Breakfast Burrito."

"The Jewish Deli's smoked meat is delicious and has an amazing texture."

"The smoked meat sandwich here is so authentic, just like Montreal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for a seamless experience.

2

Expect to pay around $22 for a sandwich.

3

The menu includes poutine and authentic Jewish meats.

11
Mr. Broadway image 1

Kosher spot offers authentic Jewish deli flavors with an Israeli twist in a lively setting. Spacious seating suits groups well, while a modern redesign and creative cocktails add flair. Mustard choice feels less traditional but doesn't dull the strong NYC deli vibe.

Authentic Jewish deli flavors come with an Israeli and Middle Eastern twist. Mustard on the side is Guldens from a plastic squeeze bottle, which feels out of place for a Jewish deli.

Kosher cuisine stays strictly authentic with a strong New York City deli vibe. The menu blends Jewish deli classics with an Israeli Middle Eastern twist without pandering to trends.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and fresh."

"I found the food here to be authentic and strictly kosher."

"It's an amazing authentic Jewish Deli with an Israeli twist."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-off everything from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

The venue can host events for up to 30 people.

3

Birthday celebrations include a special ceremony for guests.

Discover more

New York

Area guide
Loading Map...