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Authentic pastrami sandwiches in New York

A pastrami sandwich that respects the tradition of the cut instead of just piling meat high for the sake of a photo.

Based on 924 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Shamas Deli image 1
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Sandwich shop

Tiny shop offers an authentic New York deli vibe with a Pastrami Hero Sandwich that balances fresh ingredients and sauces perfectly. Owner's passion shines in every bite, creating a no-frills atmosphere loved by locals. Cash-only setup keeps it classic and simple.

Offers an authentic New York City deli experience with a Pastrami Hero Sandwich that captures classic flavors. Staff provide a friendly and genuine atmosphere.

Freshly sliced pastrami comes with the right ratios of sauces and fillings on fresh rolls. The sandwich offers great value and uses fresh ingredients for a delicious taste.

People are saying

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was the best I'd ever had."

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was the best I ever had."

"I loved the authentic pastrami sandwiches here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open Monday to Friday from 7am to 7pm.

2

The restaurant is cash only; they also accept Venmo.

3

Prices are steep for midtown Manhattan.

02
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.

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.

The pastrami sandwich features thick, juicy slices piled high on fresh rye bread. It delivers a perfect balance of smoky and savory flavors that set a high standard for pastrami sandwiches.

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."

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

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.

03
Broad Nosh Bagels Deli & Catering 42nd Street image 1

Bagel shop serves authentic New York bagels with rich cream cheese in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Pastrami sandwich on Jewish rye is a big, tasty work of art. Space is cozy and dog-friendly with fast, attentive service.

Offers authentic New York bagels with generous amounts of cream cheese. Serves a classic NYC breakfast bagel experience favored by visitors.

Hot pastrami melts in your mouth on Jewish rye bread with no sauerkraut despite photos showing it. The sandwich is big and tasty, often called a work of art.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be the best I ever ate."

"It's an authentic New York bagel shop with a fantastic vibe."

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was a true work of art."

Good to know

1

There is a free bagel tasting available.

2

The restaurant opens at 5:00 am on Sundays.

3

You can order through the link on Google Maps to skip the line.

04
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.

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.

Pastrami sandwiches come generously filled and perfectly seasoned with bold flavor. They offer a great price point and stand out as a delicious classic option.

People are saying

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

"The pastrami sandwich here is packed with flavor."

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

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.

05
Carve Cafe & Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small space with spacious seating and simple furnishings creates a cozy setting. Atmosphere feels luxurious and friendly, with music adding to the vibe. Pizza draws attention for being remarkably delicious and popular, often enjoyed alongside pastries and milkshakes.

Offers an authentic taste of New York-style pizza with flavors that stay true to the original.

Pastrami sandwich stands out for its delicious flavor and is often described as spectacular. It pairs well with other menu items like pizza.

People are saying

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

"This authentic New York-style pizza has the perfect balance of crisp, chewy crust."

"I found the pastrami sandwich to be exceptional."

Good to know

1

Be prepared to take out food during busy times.

2

They let you use the restroom anytime.

3

Coffee and bagel cost $3.50 at the Carve Cafe.

06
Gottlieb's Restaurant image 1
Kosher restaurant

Old-school kosher diner with wood panel walls and 1970s decor creates a cozy, classic atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. The space hosts an Ultra Orthodox crowd, preserving a quintessential Brooklyn Jewish experience.

Corned beef sandwiches, latkes, and knish come out with authentic, traditional flavors made from the finest ingredients. The food feels fresh and passionate, reflecting a genuine Jewish culinary experience.

Steamed pastrami on rye comes with Russian dressing and fried onions, served alongside pickles. The sandwich tastes authentic and pairs well with Hungarian flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic, traditional Hungarian kosher food here."

"It's an authentic Jewish Deli experience, just like I remember from childhood."

"This pastrami sandwich was juicy, warm, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and you can take out or eat in.

2

A 15% tip is automatically added to your bill.

3

Expect to pay around $30 for a small sandwich.

07
Brooklyn Diner USA image 1

Classic diner space with cherry wood decor and vintage neon signage creates a nostalgic 1960s vibe. Atmosphere shifts from laid-back mornings to chaotic, noisy evenings with loud music. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant alternative to the lively interior.

Booth-style seating and attentive staff create an authentic diner ambiance. The place offers classic American diner vibes with reasonable prices and a genuine New York feel.

Pastrami sandwiches come grilled or classic, both with hearty, rich flavors. The Reuben Pastrami Sandwich stands out as a solid choice.

People are saying

"The diner food, especially the pastrami sandwich, is delicious."

"I loved the authentic American diner atmosphere."

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $120 for three dishes at the diner.

2

The diner offers takeout options for those on the go.

3

You need to order one menu item per person.

08
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 Kosher deli food with rich flavors that capture Jewish culinary heritage. Provides a real New Yorker deli experience with very tasty, traditional dishes.

Hot pastrami sandwiches here melt in your mouth with rich, tender meat. They stand out as delicious and rival classic versions from other famous spots.

People are saying

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

"The coleslaw here is fresh, crisp, and a great addition."

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

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.

09
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.

Authentic New York cheesecake stands out alongside classic American breakfast and old school diner fare. The spot also serves a genuine egg cream in a setting that feels unchanged for decades.

Generous pastrami sandwiches come on good bread with great mustard. They arrive with coleslaw, pickles, and beets as sides, making a solid combo.

People are saying

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

"I found the pastrami sandwich piled high and full of flavor."

"I thought the authentic cheesecake was the best I had."

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.

10
Broad Nosh Bagels Deli & Catering 58th Street image 1

Bagel shop with chaotic atmosphere marked by constant order calls and a crowded interior. Offers limited indoor seating with some outdoor options and multiple air conditioners to ease the heat. Known for wide cream cheese variety, including vegan options, and highly praised bagels.

Offers authentic New York bagels with classic spreads. Captures the true NYC bagel experience in every bite.

Thick cut juicy pastrami defines the sandwich, offering a generous size and high quality. The Reuben Pastrami Sandwich stands out as fantastic, though the price is on the higher side at $21.99.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be amazing."

"I found the authentic New York bagel experience here."

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was perfect and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect waiting times of around 20 minutes during peak hours.

2

Ordering for take-out is suggested to bypass the line.

3

There’s a long line at 10am on a Saturday.

11
Liebman’s Deli image 1
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.

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

Hot pastrami sandwiches come with extra mustard on request and deliver a satisfying, rich flavor. The sandwiches pair well with soup and offer a hearty, filling meal worth the wait.

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.

12
Empire Diner image 1

Diner combines 1950s splendor with a contemporary upgrade in décor, creating a visually striking space. Outdoor seating in a weather-protected hut with heaters offers a quieter, comfortable atmosphere. The vibe is calm and friendly, with lively music that sometimes challenges conversation.

Cool, authentic atmosphere with classic American diner vibes. Prices reflect typical New York levels, offering a genuine but pricier diner experience.

Thick slices of New York pastrami come stacked high with a juicy, tender texture. The sandwich pairs well with crispy fries and delivers a rich, savory flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"The diner food here is delicious, especially the mac & cheese."

"I tried their pastrami sandwich and it was spectacular."

"It's got this really authentic 1950s diner atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The diner is open late until 11pm.

2

Expect a wait longer than indicated during peak hours.

3

The diner does not take reservations, so plan to queue.

13
David's Brisket House image 1

Small, clean space with cozy atmosphere and friendly vibes. Seating accommodates groups of 3-4, creating a nostalgic, homey feel when not crowded. Quiet environment allows focus on food, contrasting with occasional loud, busy times.

Clean and respectful atmosphere serves authentic sandwiches with juicy meat and classic flavors. Corned beef on rye with mustard and XL pastrami stand out as authentic deli staples.

Offers a halal pastrami sandwich with a New York style twist. Sandwiches come with lots of meat and pickles and are known for their rich flavor.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is so tender and flavorful."

"This pastrami sandwich is amazing, melt-in-your-mouth tender."

"The pastrami here is tender, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers halal options for all menu items.

2

Expect a short wait for phenomenal pastrami sandwiches.

3

The large pastrami on rye sandwich costs $36.10 including taxes.

14
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.

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.

Hot pastrami sandwich stands out with its soft, salty, and spicy flavors. Served on rye bread, it pairs well with sides like latke and fresh squeezed orange juice.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the hot pastrami sandwich; it was soft, salty, and spicy."

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.

15
Brooklyn Diner image 1

Large, bright diner with traditional New York decor and retro exterior creates an authentic vibe. Atmosphere feels lively and celebrity-infused, with comfortable seating and booths ideal for people watching. Design uses shutters and mirrors to avoid feeling cramped, distinguishing it from typical NYC diners.

An authentic vibe fills the space with a true Manhattan dining experience. The menu offers authentic American food and well-balanced Mexican cuisine including standout chickpea hummus.

Pastrami sandwiches come piled high and served piping hot with a good portion size. They taste rich and pair well with a side of fries.

People are saying

"This Diner burger was juicy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly."

"The Pastrami Sandwich here is really good and flavorful."

"The food here feels truly authentic American."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served all day.

2

The restaurant closes at 9:00 p.m.

3

Reservations are needed for this diner.

16
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.

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

Huge portions of tender, juicy pastrami come stacked on rye bread. The sandwich is very big and flavorful, often shared between two people due to its size and price.

People are saying

"This pastrami sandwich is delicious and huge."

"The matzah ball soup here has an amazing broth and a large, fluffy ball."

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

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.

17
Mr. Broadway image 1

Kosher restaurant with vibrant atmosphere and Israeli music creates a lively, fun vibe. Spacious, comfortable seating supports large groups and gatherings. Decor features a beautiful, modern redesign with a full bar offering creative craft cocktails.

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.

Pastrami sandwich on rye stands out with its kosher style and rich flavor. It pairs well with onion rings and classic sides like cold slaw and pickles.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and fresh."

"I found the pastrami sandwich I was looking for."

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

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.

18
Carnegie Diner & Cafe image 1

Upscale diner with cramped seating and dim lighting creates a classic yet hectic atmosphere. Live music and a small patio add to the vibe, while bottomless mimosas and standout dishes like the burger and French toast draw attention. Crowds fill the space, making it lively but noisy.

Cozy, authentic atmosphere matches a true American diner vibe. Corned Beef Reuben and American brunch dishes deliver authentic flavors and charm.

Pastrami sandwich stands out for its excellent quality and delicious flavor. It pairs well with sides like French fries and is often highlighted alongside homemade cheesecake.

People are saying

"The food here is a peaceful escape from busy routines."

"I had the best breakfast I've ever had in NYC."

"You can get an authentic American diner experience here."

Good to know

1

Make reservations for Easter Sunday to ensure a spot.

2

Unlimited mimosas for $20 are available every day all day.

3

Bottomless mimosas and waffles are available on Sunday morning.

19
New York Luncheonette image 1
American restaurant

Small space with classic New York diner style and cozy atmosphere filled with old school charm and wall photos. Warm and welcoming vibe persists even when busy, creating a pleasant neighborhood feel. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options, with a sense of urgency to turn tables.

The diner offers an authentic NY diner experience with a genuine New York Luncheonette vibe. It serves authentic American breakfast and USA cuisine in a setting that feels real and unpretentious.

Pastrami sandwich features rich flavor and generous portions. Bread is soft but not toasted, which some might notice.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and generously portioned."

"The breakfast service here is super friendly and efficient."

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was the best I had ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a queue after 9:00 AM.

2

Arriving before 9:00 AM is recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant serves breakfast all day, making it a flexible option.

20
Junior's Restaurant and Bakery image 1

Space combines retro diner vibe with vibrant decor featuring red and yellow hues. Atmosphere stays fun and lively, often busy and chaotic, with music that is pleasant and not overpowering. Crowd enjoys classic American comfort with standout cheesecake and a bar offering notable cocktails and beers.

Authentic American New York cheesecake stands out here, capturing the true taste of the city. Friendly, chatty staff add to the lively atmosphere that reflects classic New York dining.

Generous portions of melt-in-your-mouth pastrami come with toasted buttery bread and house Russian dressing. The sandwich includes housemade pickles and serves well for sharing.

People are saying

"I found their famous cheesecake to be truly delicious."

"I enjoyed the delicious and generous pastrami sandwich."

"I tried the authentic cheesecake; it's rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

You can put your name on a waitlist to plan your visit better.

2

The place is busy and open till midnight, close to Times Square.

3

On Saturday night at 6:00 PM, there was a 10-minute wait for a table for two.

21
Friedman's image 1
Gluten-free restaurant

Small dining area with tables close together creates an intimate atmosphere filled with loud music and a busy vibe. Ceiling fans run at max speed to vent kitchen smoke, making the space feel chilly. The place offers a bar, tables, or a box seating options, attracting a lively crowd.

Offers authentic comfort food with dishes like Chilaquiles that stay close to traditional flavors, though slightly light on the verde. The atmosphere feels cozy and genuinely authentic.

Juicy and filling, the pastrami sandwich features a wonderful ratio of seasoned meat with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese adding an elevated taste. It stands out as a great pastrami sandwich with perfectly seasoned meat.

People are saying

"You'll find tons of great gluten-free options here."

"The food here is authentic, delicious, and a culinary journey."

"The pastrami sandwich here is tender, juicy, and superb."

Good to know

1

Go before 10am to avoid a line.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM on Saturdays.

3

Brunch is available any day of the week.

22
Stage Star Deli image 1

Tiny deli with no frills offers a quintessential New York vibe and a hidden speakeasy in the back. Seating is tight but adequate, with a nicer air-conditioned area behind the main space. Atmosphere feels genuine and straightforward, reflecting classic deli style.

Food tastes delicious and authentic. Breakfasts stay 100% authentic.

Made to order pastrami sandwiches feature cartilage cuts and deliver a really good flavor.

People are saying

"The breakfast staff here is super friendly."

"The breakfasts here are 100% authentic."

"I found the pastrami sandwich delicious and made to order."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is available starting at 6am every day.

2

The restaurant closes early, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Seating is limited, especially during peak hours.

23
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.

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.

Hearty and lean, tender pastrami makes the sandwich very flavorful. It follows a Canadian style and stands out compared to other sandwiches like brisket and mustard.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the pastrami sandwich to be really lean and tender."

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.

24
Hometown Bar-B-Que image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers authentic wood-smoked BBQ with live jazz and country music enhancing the experience. Outdoor seating overlooks a historic waterfront, creating a relaxed vibe. The space features high-top bar stools and a lively bar area with easy service.

Small, family-owned spot serves authentic, pit-smoked meats with a southern atmosphere. Offers a Texas-style smokehouse experience paired with local beers.

Tenderness, juiciness, and bark stand out in the pastrami sandwich. It comes on buttered rye bread and often ranks above Katz's in quality.

People are saying

"The brisket and ribs here are melt-in-your-mouth American BBQ."

"It's the perfect place for authentic, pit-smoked meats."

"This pastrami sandwich is ridiculously tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends, up to 1 hour.

2

The price for a 1/2 lb of meat and two sides is around $50.

3

Lunch is served at 5pm, and dinner can sell out quickly.

25
Pastrami Queen image 1
Kosher restaurant

Small deli with cramped seating and classic diner vibe featuring mirrored walls and stainless steel slabs. Atmosphere feels authentic and nostalgic with a calm, traditional energy. Space is limited, making seating sometimes hard to find.

Pastrami sandwiches stand out with authentic flavor and delicious cold cuts. The small, cozy space adds a unique atmosphere that feels genuine.

Soft, flavorful, and well-cut top-dollar pastrami defines the hot pastrami sandwich here. Options include a version with sauerkraut, and the sandwiches consistently deliver an authentic, delicious taste.

People are saying

"I found the hot pastrami sandwich to be very tasty and flavorful."

"The coleslaw was fresh, creamy, and crunchy."

"I loved the authentic, tender pastrami slices packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Each pastrami sandwich costs around $26, which is considered high by many.

2

The restaurant is less than a 10-minute walk from Central Park.

3

Reservations are not accepted, and expect long wait times during peak hours.

26
Time Out Market New York image 1

Multi-story food court inside an old harbor warehouse offers a rooftop terrace with free views of Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge, and downtown skyline. Atmosphere shifts from serene and spacious to crowded and loud during busy times. Outdoor seating and a small rooftop bar provide a relaxed spot for drinks and city views.

Chote Miya serves authentic Indian Mumbai food with an old-world charm in its architectural design. The atmosphere stays relaxed and genuine, reflecting true flavors and style.

Tender, flavorful meat defines the pastrami sandwich here. It pairs well with sides like potato latkes and baked potatoes, making for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The rooftop offers a great view of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan."

"The pastrami sandwich here is nice and juicy."

"The authentic views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge are astounding."

Good to know

1

Most food vendors do not open until 09:00.

2

Reservations are recommended for the bottomless brunch on weekends.

3

Salsa Night happens every Thursday from 6:30 to 9:30 pm on the rooftop.

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