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Pastrami and corned beef sandwiches in New York

The choice between a salty pastrami sandwich and a classic corned beef sandwich is impossible, so having both options is a relief.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
2nd Ave Deli image 1
2nd Ave Deli image 2
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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.

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.

Thinly sliced and moist corned beef sandwiches come hot and satisfying. They pair well with potato pancakes or hand-cut fries for a classic combo.

People are saying

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

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

"The corned beef sandwich here is outstanding, with about a pound of moist meat."

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.

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.

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.

Hand-carved corned beef piles high on rye bread with mustard create a huge, delicious sandwich. The corned beef sandwich stands out for its supreme flavor and size.

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 corned beef sandwich here is super soft 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
Carnegie Diner & Cafe image 1

Diner shines with fresh pastrami and generous corned beef sandwiches perfect for brunch. Spacious, clean space buzzes with music-themed decor and lively sports broadcasts. Outdoor seating welcomes pets, while bottomless mimosas boost the energetic vibe.

Fresh, generous portions define the pastrami sandwich here. It features careful preparation that highlights the meat's flavor and texture.

Corned beef sandwiches come in lean cuts and generous portions, including a 1-pound option shared between two. They fit well into a brunch setting.

People are saying

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

"I found the pastrami sandwich to be amazing and tender."

"The corned beef sandwich was tender, juicy, and flavorful."

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.

04
David's Brisket House image 1

Small, cozy spot serves halal pastrami with a New York twist and massive corned beef sandwiches. Friendly vibes and a quiet space let you enjoy rich flavors and exemplary fries. Seating fits groups of 3-4, perfect for a nostalgic, homey meal.

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.

Massive corned beef sandwiches come with exemplary fries. The sandwiches stand out alongside pastrami and brisket options.

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."

"You have to try the massive corned beef sandwich."

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.

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.

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.

Corned beef sandwiches come with generous portions and abundant ingredients. They taste flavorful and tender, with options including a vegan version.

People are saying

"This pastrami sandwich is delicious and huge."

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

"The corned beef sandwich is piled high and tender."

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
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.

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.

Hot pastrami and corned beef sandwiches stand out with rich flavor and satisfying portions. Corned beef pairs well with egg, creating a hearty meal option.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the delicious and generous pastrami sandwich."

"I found the corned beef sandwich to be incredible."

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.

07
Sandwich and Pickle Modern Delicatessen image 1

Small dining room offers intimate seating and a cozy, European cafe vibe. Pastrami sandwich shines with tender, flavorful meat and juicy texture. Corned beef sandwich is a simple deli choice but has had a reported health issue, so caution is advised.

Pastrami sandwich melts in your mouth with tender, flavorful meat. It stands out for its juicy texture and is often compared favorably to well-known delis.

Corned beef sandwich comes as a straightforward deli option alongside other items like pastrami and knish. One instance involved a health issue after eating the sandwich, which is notable.

People are saying

"The hot honey chicken challah French toast is phenomenal for brunch."

"This pastrami sandwich is tender, juicy, and well-seasoned."

"I thought the corned beef sandwich was absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

2

Expect long wait times, especially for popular items like the pastrami sandwich.

3

Parking can be challenging at this small establishment.

08
Junior's Restaurant & Bakery image 1
American restaurant

1950s decor with neon lights and period furniture creates a movie-like atmosphere. The space feels spacious yet busy, with a high noise level typical of a bustling city setting. A wide variety of cheesecakes and a full bar complement the lively environment.

Tender and flavorful pastrami comes on a small roll, which is a twist on the traditional style. Sandwiches are massive and pair well with sides like red potato salad.

Corned beef comes stacked and flavorful, often paired with pastrami in a combo. The sandwich holds up well and earns recommendations alongside cheesecake.

People are saying

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

"I found the pastrami sandwich to be amazing."

"I believed their corned beef sandwich was a must-try."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at the diner.

2

Breakfast service ends at 11:00 AM on Christmas day.

3

Expect long queues; wait times may exceed 1 hour.

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