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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in New York

Lunch spots

A Reuben that functions as a proper lunch-spot meal rather than a messy ordeal you have to eat at your desk.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bakers Cafe LIC image 1
Bakers Cafe LIC image 2
Bakers Cafe LIC image 3
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Small cafe with big windows and a cozy atmosphere blends modern comfort with rustic warmth. Calm and family-friendly vibe invites relaxed meals and casual get-togethers. Offers halal sandwiches known for fresh, flavorful quality and generous portions.

Savory and steaming hot, the Reuben features pastrami, cheese, and sauerkraut with a perfect ratio of meat to bread. Fresh bread holds this flavorful and well-balanced sandwich served quickly.

Lots of options for breakfast and lunch make it a solid choice. Specials add variety, making it a perfect spot to grab a midday meal.

People are saying

"I thought the Halal breakfast here was great and really fresh."

"This lunch spot's chicken plates are a healthy, well-balanced meal."

"The Reuben sandwich was flavorful and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

Bakers Cafe LIC offers a small discount for paying with cash.

2

The prices at Bakers Cafe LIC are competitive, with a $12 flounder filet platter and a $16 T-bone steak.

3

Everything at Bakers Cafe LIC is halal.

02
Moe's Pastrami & Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small spot with a warm atmosphere and cozy seating offers large pastrami Reuben sandwiches on rye with spicy mustard. It serves as a solid lunch alternative to fast food with hearty portions perfect for taking home.

Large sandwiches feature pastrami or corned beef on rye bread with spicy mustard. The Reuben with pastrami stands out as especially delicious and satisfying.

Offers a solid alternative to fast food chains with half-pound pastrami sandwiches and burgers. Meals often come in portions suitable for taking home and enjoying later.

People are saying

"I had the best pastrami sandwich I've ever had."

"The pastrami on the Reuben is so juicy and tender."

"This lunch spot's pastrami sandwiches are delicious and juicy."

Good to know

1

All food is halal.

2

The small pastrami combo costs $19, not the advertised $15.

3

There is no restroom at Moe's Pastrami and Burger.

03
72ND Eatery image 1
Restaurant

Bright, spacious interior with indoor and outdoor seating offers a welcoming atmosphere where locals gather like old friends. The space combines a luxury bistro design with a friendly, family-oriented vibe that feels comfortable and clean.

Corned beef and pastrami feature in the signature Reuben sandwich. The sandwich pairs well with sides like corn chowder and comes at a great price.

Offers a variety of options for quick lunch with excellent quality. Soups stand out as spot on and the food suits both breakfast and lunch needs.

People are saying

"I loved their homemade cream and lentil soups."

"This lunch spot has generous portions and great quality food."

"I thought the Reuben sandwich was so good and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers lunch specials.

2

Breakfast for two with tip costs $25.

3

The restaurant is very clean.

04
Liberty Bagels Wall Street image 1

Bagel shop offers limited indoor seating mostly at the back, with a layout separating order and pickup areas. Atmosphere is busy and chaotic, often crowded with a loud, fast-paced vibe. Creative touches include a gelato-style cream cheese display featuring unique flavors and rows of bagels showcased at the entrance.

Hot and fresh with large portions, the Reuben features some of the best pastrami and is served on an everything bagel toasted well. The sandwich has lots of filling and stands out as a solid choice.

Fast and friendly service makes lunch quick and easy. Seating offers a peaceful spot to enjoy an authentic New York bagel experience.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were the best in the world."

"The bagels at this Lunch Spot are delicious and amazing."

"I thought the Reuben bagel was the best decision of my weekend."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so plan accordingly.

2

They will charge a fee for credit card payments.

3

Liberty Bagels is open from 7 AM to 6 PM daily.

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.

Thick slices of tender corned beef and perfectly melted cheese come together on toasted rye bread. The pastrami Reuben balances meaty richness with sauerkraut and has bread toasted just right.

Offers an authentic deli experience with consistently great sandwiches and excellent pastrami. The lunch counter vibe feels like a blast from the past, making it a solid spot for a quick, satisfying meal.

People are saying

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

"The pastrami sandwich at this lunch spot is outstanding and perfectly seasoned."

"The pastrami in the Reuben was so good, I'm still craving it."

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
PJ Bernstein image 1

Small deli with classic Jewish deli classics and amazing pastrami sandwiches creates a relaxed, friendly vibe in an unpretentious setting. Seating options include tables and a balcony, supporting a comfortable local atmosphere. Quiet ambiance allows for easy conversation without much noise.

Large size stands out with the Reuben sandwich here. The sandwich offers a generous portion that often leaves half uneaten.

Busy during the lunch rush, the spot offers good pastrami sandwiches and cheese blintzes alongside salmon and bagels. Staff call to confirm replacement dessert choices when needed.

People are saying

"You have to try the matzo ball soup; it's amazing."

"You'll love the overstuffed sandwiches at this lunch spot."

"I thought the Reuben sandwiches here were great."

Good to know

1

A regular small sized sandwich costs $25.

2

The bowl of matzo ball soup costs $19.

3

The restaurant requires a credit card before placing a telephone order.

07
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.

Juicy, smoky pastrami delivers a savory punch in the Reuben. Tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing balance the sandwich with classic flavors and tender, flavorful meat.

Offers quick and delicious meals with good lunch prices. Serves well for lunch, breakfast, or takeout after work.

People are saying

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

"The Halal meat here is so tender, juicy, and flavorful."

"The brisket at this Lunch Spot is tender and flavorful, especially with the jus."

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.

08
Eisenberg's Sandwich Shop image 1

A tight, cramped space with long sandwich bar and old school charm evokes a 1940s New York deli atmosphere. The vibe is authentic and nostalgic, filled with lively banter between staff and regulars. Most people sit at the counter, enjoying classic sandwiches in a setting that feels like stepping back in time.

Pastrami Reuben sandwiches come with thick-cut meat and are griddled to perfection. The sandwich is a classic, known for being very good and worth the wait.

Classic diner vibes create a quick lunch spot with no wait even during rush. Offers classic New York sandwiches and suits both breakfast and lunch needs.

People are saying

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

"I thought the pastrami Reuben was totally worth it."

"The pastrami sandwiches at this lunch spot are salty and tender."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait for a counter spot if arriving late in the morning.

2

The diner opens at 8am on Thursdays instead of 7am.

3

The total cost for a cheeseburger, fries, cole slaw, and Coke is $22.

09
Court Street Grocers image 1

Sandwich shop combines diner-meets-deli style with over 30 sandwich options and a pickup window for orders. Busy atmosphere carries a solid New York vibe with both indoor and tidy outdoor seating. Menu features highly praised sandwiches known for distinctive flavors and textures.

Turkey Reuben sandwiches come moist and juicy on toast with consistent flavor. The Broccoli Reuben offers a light yet satisfying texture and taste.

Casual lunch draws a small crowd and suits both solo work and hanging out with friends. Lines get long during peak hours, so ordering ahead helps. Sandwiches come at a higher price and often in pairs.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are so good, I wanted to go back for more."

"The turkey Reuben was always delicious and hit the spot."

"I loved the turkey sandwich; it was delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 25 minutes for food orders.

2

It is recommended to call in for pick-up to avoid long waits.

3

Order ahead to minimize wait times, especially during busy hours.

10
Liebman's Deli image 1
Restaurant

Neighborhood deli blends modern design with old school vibes and classic Jewish menu items. Atmosphere feels inviting and roomy, with comfortable seating and lively music. Prices run high, but portions are generous and food quality is notable.

Huge portions of Pastrami Reuben come warm and juicy. Both Pastrami and Corned Beef versions taste good but lean toward a classic deli style rather than standout.

Friendly owners make sandwiches themselves and check on every table during lunch. The half sandwich and soup combo offers a solid, satisfying option for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The deli sandwiches here are overstuffed and delicious."

"The pastrami sandwich is a delicious Lunch Spot, warm and succulent."

"The Reubens were delicious, juicy, and still warm."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Prices are higher than average, with meats priced per half pound.

3

Limited side options are available; choose between gravy or fries.

11
Two Morrow's Pub image 1

Pub combines old-school charm with vintage decor and warm wood accents, creating a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. Music ranges from soft classic tunes to louder live country performances, affecting the overall energy. Regulars enjoy quality burgers and diverse drink options, including notable non-alcoholic beers.

Pastrami melts in your mouth with a rich, tender texture. The Reuben stands out alongside wings as a solid choice.

Great burgers and lunch specials make it a solid spot for a quick midday meal. Options suit a fast, casual lunch vibe.

People are saying

"The food at this pub is fantastic, especially the pastrami Reuben."

"I loved the burgers at this Lunch Spot."

"The pastrami in the Reuben melted in my mouth."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every Friday night with great drink specials.

2

Parking is located in the back of the pub for easy access.

3

A burger and beer combo is available for $10 from Monday to Thursday.

12
Riley Fibbers image 1

Old, rustic building with an open layout connecting eating area and bar creates a casual, friendly atmosphere. Loud music and multiple TVs bring a sporty, lively energy. Diverse crowd enjoys wide drink selection, late night kitchen, and unique pub food twists like Bender Fries and top-rated wings.

The Reuben stands out with its incredible flavor and ranks among the top sandwiches served here. It holds its own alongside other hearty options like the steak and Philly cheesesteak sandwiches.

Lunch offers a fun vibe with staff adding a little sass. Prices lean toward the pricey side but the experience feels worth it for an afternoon meal.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be amazing."

"I love their great beer selection."

"This lunch spot has unbelievable wings and an incredible Reuben."

Good to know

1

Riley Fibbers has a late night kitchen for food after hours.

2

Expect large portions for both food and drinks.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and welcomes kids.

13
Times Square Cafe image 1

Spacious café with a 1960s diner vibe and cozy atmosphere offers a welcoming environment and friendly service. Seating is limited but not crowded, with a mini market inside for quick options. The place stands out for its fresh food and clean setting in a busy area.

Generous portions make the Reuben sandwich nearly too much to eat. It pairs well with a cappuccino and delivers a satisfying, delicious flavor.

Lunch here is quick and easy, with no fuss. It offers a chill spot to grab a bite before a show.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot were so friendly and hospitable."

"The Reuben sandwich was amazing and nearly too much to eat."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open 24 hours a day.

2

The establishment warmly welcomes customers at any time.

3

The restaurant has vegan options.

14
Clark's image 1
Diner

Diner with European style and cozy atmosphere offers outdoor seating where people watch the world go by. Inside feels a bit cramped but manages to seat everyone comfortably. The vibe is pleasant and relaxed, fitting a neighborhood spot with friendly energy.

Housemade sliced meat defines the hot Reuben sandwich here. It comes with fries and delivers a very tasty experience.

Offers a consistent lunch menu with options like the Reuben sandwich. Serves well for both casual and celebratory meals with excellent service.

People are saying

"This brunch was the best on the entire planet."

"It's a great lunch spot for a casual meal."

"I thought the Reuben sandwich was absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Brunch is very popular on weekends, expect long wait times.

2

Lunch hour is busy, plan to arrive early.

3

Dinner service starts at 10 PM.

15
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.

Moist and flavorful pastrami defines the Reuben here, making it stand out. The sandwich comes with a pickle wrapped in its own paper, which is handy for takeout and picnics.

One bagel fills two people for lunch. Robert and his crew make the meal memorable with attentive service.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be amazing."

"The bagels here are the best, fresh and chewy."

"I found the Reuben sandwich here to be the most amazing I had ever had."

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.

16
Fraunces Tavern image 1
American restaurant

Oldest building in Manhattan hosts multiple bars and a restaurant within a spacious, beautifully decorated setting. Atmosphere blends historic charm with live jazz music, creating an engaging and lively vibe. Visitors explore a museum upstairs and enjoy a whiskey bar alongside diverse social spaces.

Reuben sandwich features a perfect balance of ingredients and comes with a fresh salad. It stands out as excellent and delicious compared to others.

Lunch offers a delicious meal in a historic venue with attentive staff despite busy times. A museum on the second floor provides a unique option to explore after eating.

People are saying

"I loved dining inside American history at this historical site."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is surprisingly good."

"I found the Reuben sandwich to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are needed to sit in the old tavern room.

2

The happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

Live jazz music is available during Saturday brunch.

17
Broad Nosh Bagels Deli & Catering image 1

Narrow shop with cramped layout and limited seating fills quickly with a constant flow of customers, creating a loud, chaotic atmosphere. Small tables inside and outside offer spots to eat amid the busy vibe. The place feels warm and inviting despite the hustle.

Pastrami Reuben on rye stands out with balanced size and mouthwatering flavor. The sandwich pairs well with a crispy latke for a satisfying meal.

Lunch offers generous portions with a delicious lunch special featuring scallion cream cheese and onions. This spot suits those looking for a filling midday meal after active city exploring.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels were top tier and incredible."

"This Lunch Spot has the perfect chewy, warm bagels."

"I've never eaten a better pastrami Reuben."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

The ordering process is confusing, requiring customers to order at two different counters.

3

There is no bathroom available for customers at this bagel shop.

18
Friedman's image 1
Gluten-free restaurant

Small American restaurant offers cozy, romantic design with ample indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere blends classy and down-to-earth vibes with occasional live singing during dinner. Known for gluten-free menu and welcoming families with thoughtful amenities.

Hand cut pastrami shines with balanced sauerkraut and Swiss cheese in the Reuben sandwich. The Broccoli Reuben offers a satisfying twist that keeps the deli feel intact. Service quickly fixes order mix-ups, ensuring a mouth-watering pastrami Reuben experience.

Lunch offers a variety of dishes with a treat included each time. It suits a meal after a walk through Central Park and works well for both breakfast and lunch.

People are saying

"The gluten-free options here are amazing and spectacular."

"The French toast and chicken waffles at Brunch were delicious."

"I found the Reuben sandwich to be excellent and delicious."

Good to know

1

A reservation is highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant offers gluten-free options for various dishes.

3

This place gets busy during brunch time until 3 PM.

19
Stage Door Delicatessen image 1

Warehouse-style deli offers a spacious, modern interior with air-conditioned seating and street-side views. Atmosphere ranges from relaxed to lively, with friendly staff and a menu known for exceptional pizza and sandwiches. Small, private seating areas provide a quaint contrast to the casual, affordable vibe.

Reuben sandwiches here stand out for their amazing flavor and delicious quality. They consistently impress as some of the best found in the area.

Great choices and accurate orders make lunch straightforward. The deli offers a varied selection of sandwiches and other foods, including a notable Reuben and strudel.

People are saying

"You have to try the pancakes; they're the best I've ever had."

"I thought the pizza here was delicious and really tasty."

"The Lunch Spot staff is super friendly and fast."

Good to know

1

The deli charges a 4% fee for credit card payments.

2

The establishment closes at 5:30 PM instead of 6:00 PM.

3

Lunch hours are very crowded, often described as a zoo.

20
Carnegie Diner & Cafe image 1

Diner offers a clean, spacious interior with music-themed decor and a vibrant atmosphere near a busy city area. The space includes outdoor seating with pet-friendly amenities and features lively background music and sports broadcasts. Strong, well-priced cocktails and bottomless mimosas add to the energetic vibe.

Half a pound of juicy pastrami fills the sandwich, paired with perfectly melted cheese and tangy Russian dressing on toasted rye. The portion is excellent and quick, served hot in about 10 minutes.

Lunch features a juicy burger and a varied menu that suits late meals. The spot works well for a quick bite after travel or a casual midday break.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, well-seasoned, and beautifully plated."

"This lunch spot has great burgers and delicious sandwiches."

"The pastrami Reuben is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly portioned."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-7 PM with great prices on drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for breakfast to avoid long waits.

3

Breakfast is available all day, so you can enjoy it anytime.

21
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.

Moist, tender house made pastrami stands out in the Reuben sandwich. The sandwich features excellent pastrami and exceptionally good corned beef in a traditional American style.

Lunch features quick seating even on busy days and allows luggage inside during the meal. The fare is consistently very good and delicious.

People are saying

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

"The chicken pot pie here is huge and delicious."

"Their Reuben sandwich was amazing and the corned beef was exceptionally good."

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.

22
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.

Pastrami Reuben stands out with excellent flavor and quality. Chopped liver and coleslaw accompany the sandwich well, making the Reuben a solid choice here.

Lunch features a good menu with delicious food. Burgers stand out as a popular choice. The spot handles groups well and suits casual gatherings.

People are saying

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

"The lunch here is delicious, especially the cheeseburger."

"The pastrami Reuben melted in my mouth and was delicious."

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.

23
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.

Pastrami in the Reuben is tender with bits of whole spices. The sandwich pairs well with fries and stands out as a classic New York style option.

Lunch comes with a short wait even when the place is packed. The pastrami sandwich serves piled high and piping hot portions. Seating at the bar offers a casual spot to enjoy lunch in a busy area.

People are saying

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

"Our server Ashraf was terrific and didn't rush us."

"This pastrami Reuben sandwich was superb and delicious."

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.

24
Veselka image 1
Ukrainian restaurant

Old school restaurant with tall ceilings and bright open windows creates a cozy yet noisy, crowded atmosphere. Large outdoor dining area with heat lamps offers lively street views. Known for freshly made Ukrainian classics and an energetic vibe that defines the neighborhood.

Vegetarian Reuben latkes stand out with their potato pancake base and rich flavor. The Reuben sandwich and bowl also offer tasty, classic fillings alongside perogies and latkes.

Lunch offers a great variety suitable for groups, with options available for delivery. Arriving early helps avoid the lunch line and enjoy a smooth experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and plentiful."

"This lunch spot offers amazing pierogi and authentic Ukrainian food."

"The Reuben sandwich is tasty on delicious rye bread."

Good to know

1

During restaurant week, you can sample pierogies and stuffed cabbage for about 30 dollars.

2

Come early if you don't want to wait in line; expect a 30-minute wait.

3

Veselka does not seat customers after 10:20 PM.

25
Bubby's image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant with close seating and loud music creates a lively, bustling atmosphere. Indoor and covered outdoor spaces offer a chic, bright vibe with a retro photo booth in the basement adding unique charm.

Turkey pastrami shines on fresh rye bread in the Reuben sandwich. It offers a flavorful and delicious twist on the classic.

Lunch offers a variety of great food with a cozy atmosphere. Tables fill up quickly, so booking ahead helps during busy times.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, comforting American cuisine."

"This lunch spot's chicken and pancakes are delicious."

"I found the turkey pastrami Reuben delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Bubby's does not take reservations on weekends for brunch.

2

Expect to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour on weekends.

3

Bubby's only accepts walk-in customers.

26
Brooklyn Delicatessen Times Square image 1

Old school diner with 50’s style decor and an open kitchen creates a spacious, clean setting. Live music and singers add a lively, enjoyable atmosphere without feeling rushed. The place offers classic American vibes with a relaxed pace and plenty of seating.

Hot Pastrami Reuben stands out with its rich flavor and tasty layers. Turkey and hot Corned Beef Reubens also appear as solid options.

Quick lunches come with a 50's style decor and classic entrees that fit well before a show. Pastrami sandwiches and solid meal options offer a satisfying midday break without the tourist feel.

People are saying

"The pastrami sandwich here is amazing and packed with meat."

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful at this Lunch Spot."

"The hot pastrami Reuben was excellent and tasty."

Good to know

1

The performance by Satin Dollz is free, but you must tip the performers.

2

There is a free show on Friday at 8pm featuring the Satin Dollz.

3

You have to order at the counter, and servers bring food to your table.

27
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.

Overflowing with pastrami and brisket, the Eli Reuben stands out with smoked meat, corned beef, slaw, and a delicious pickle. The Corned Beef Reuben consistently delivers a strong, flavorful experience.

Montreal Jewish style deli food shines with corned beef Reuben and matzo ball soup as solid lunch choices. Smaller sides like cucumber salad and potato salad add variety to the midday meal.

People are saying

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

"You have to try their matzoh ball soup; it's flavorful and hearty."

"This lunch spot's smoked meat sandwich is incredible."

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.

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