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Local picks in New York

Jewish delis and American food

A craving for a piled-high pastrami sandwich on rye sits right alongside the need for a classic, no-nonsense American meal.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Russ & Daughters Cafe image 1
Russ & Daughters Cafe image 2
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American restaurant

Interior mimics an old-school diner with retro vibe and classy servers in white lab coats. Atmosphere feels warm and homey yet somewhat sterile and quiet while ordering. Known for classic bagel and lox, it draws those seeking a historic Jewish deli experience.

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.

Eggs Benedict stands out with versions featuring lox and served on brioche with spinach. The menu also offers smoked salmon, bagels, latkes, knishes, and homemade sodas.

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."

"The bagels, especially with salmon, are the best American food here."

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.

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.

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.

Brisket and pastrami stand out with rich, tender flavors. Corned beef sandwiches and chicken noodle soup also feature prominently, alongside a classic hot dog.

People are saying

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

"The pastrami and brisket here are tender, moist, and flavorful American food."

"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.

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.

Meals come with complimentary coleslaw and pickles that are fresh and crisp. The brisket sandwich with gravy and Matza ball soup stand out as notable dishes.

People are saying

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

"The pastrami sandwich is epic, piled high with juicy, smoky meat."

"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
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.

Patty melts come on rye bread and are gloriously messy. Reuben sandwiches feature tasty corned beef and leave a lasting craving. Cheeseburgers are easy to eat warm with one hand. Traditional diner staples like egg creams and crispy onion rings round out the menu.

People are saying

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

"The pastrami on the Reuben sandwich is thick cut and well spiced."

"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.

05
Sargeโ€™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.

Classic New York deli fare shines with a Reuben sandwich, brisket, and chicken pot pie. Starters like coleslaw and pickles complement the hearty sandwiches and soups well.

People are saying

"This pastrami sandwich is delicious and huge."

"The pastrami and corned beef sandwiches are piled high with thinly cut meat."

"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.

06
Frankel's Delicatessen & Appetizing image 1

Small sandwich shop with retro deli vibe and limited counter seating along windows. Atmosphere feels authentic Brooklyn with a lively, welcoming energy and friendly staff. Outdoor seating offers a chance to enjoy the neighborhood while eating.

A new generation of Jewish deli shines with a modern retro vibe. It stands out by skipping traditional items like knishes while keeping classic deli elements alive.

Brisket sandwiches stand out with juicy, thick cuts and a kick of hot sauce. The Reuben sandwich rivals those found in Manhattan, and the hot dog features a perfect snap with delicious kraut.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be the best I've ever had."

"I had one of the best pastrami sandwiches I've ever had."

"The Jewish Deli's pastrami is tender, juicy, and hand-cut."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait 15-20 minutes if you arrive after 10am.

2

Ordering online first is highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The pastrami sandwich costs about $21 or $22.

07
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.

Classic diner vibe with an extensive menu of Jewish deli classics. Known for amazing pastrami sandwiches and attentive service.

Reuben sandwiches stand out with solid flavor. Sandwiches come simple, like turkey with coleslaw and a pickle, though the pickle and coleslaw can be off-putting.

People are saying

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

"This Jewish Deli has amazing pastrami sandwiches and classic dishes."

"The American food here, especially the Reuben, is piled high with pastrami and pickles."

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.

08
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.

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.

Hamburgers stand out with crispy, perfectly salty fries. The brisket sandwich and pastrami also feature prominently, alongside a gluten free ciabatta option with grass fed prime rib and kale pesto.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and fresh."

"The American Food here is great, and the service is so kind."

"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.

09
Mill Basin Deli image 1
Restaurant

Space feels like stepping into a 70s and 80s time capsule with neon lighting and walls lined with folk art. Atmosphere is warm and homey, inviting slow, relaxed dining. Known for classic pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, it draws those seeking traditional deli flavors in a nostalgic setting.

A Jewish deli here serves very fresh and good food. It stands out since most other Jewish delis in the area have closed.

Hot dogs stand out with mustard, sour pickles, and coleslaw of superb quality. Brisket and pastrami sandwiches on rye bread also feature prominently, alongside classic sides like fries and mushroom barley soup.

People are saying

"I've been coming to this classic Jewish deli for years."

"I loved the fresh, tasty corned beef and pastrami sandwiches."

"The pastrami at this Jewish Deli just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Be aware of the kosher status of this place.

2

The price of the pastrami sandwich is $20.95.

3

Expect smaller portions for the high prices.

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