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Pastrami diners in New York

A pastrami sandwich that is the focus, in a diner that doesn't treat the food like a secondary concern.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Carnegie Diner & Cafe image 1
Carnegie Diner & Cafe image 2
Carnegie Diner & Cafe image 3
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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.

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.

Cozy ambiance pairs with delicious food and friendly service for a solid diner experience. Breakfast and burgers stand out as popular choices.

People are saying

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

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

"I had the best diner breakfast I've ever had."

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.

02
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.

Beef pastrami sandwiches come with rich flavor and a satisfying texture. The Ruben pastrami sandwich pairs well with pickles and fries for a classic combo.

Captures a classic Jewish diner vibe with a fountain soda and diner fare focus. Offers a nice atmosphere reminiscent of old New York diner scenes.

People are saying

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

"It's a classic New York diner with an intimate, old-school vibe."

"I thought the pastrami sandwich here was delicious and worth every penny."

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.

03
Andrew’s Diner image 1

Classic diner layout with two distinct sections and a Staten Island mural sets a familiar scene. Atmosphere feels friendly and comfortable but somewhat dated and in need of updating. Occasional magic tricks add a unique, personal touch to the experience.

Super packed with meat, the pastrami sandwich offers a delicious and excellent flavor profile.

Offers great food and service with very reasonable prices. Known for excellent fish 'n chips and consistent quality over many years.

People are saying

"This diner has a cozy, classic vibe and great food."

"The breakfast portions are huge; I could never finish everything."

"I found the pastrami sandwich to be super packed and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking at the diner is slightly difficult due to its location and competition.

2

The prices at the diner are higher than those listed on the website.

3

You can order ahead for takeout at this restaurant.

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.

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.

Classic New York diner vibe shines through with traditional diner staples like egg creams and patty melts. The atmosphere blends old-school charm and wacky decorations for a fun, no-frills experience.

People are saying

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

"The pastrami sandwich here is packed with flavor."

"I loved the matzo ball soup; the broth was exceptional."

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
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.

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

Classic American diner vibe creates a nostalgic atmosphere like stepping into a Hollywood movie. Friendly service and a menu featuring PotPie and hearty breakfast options make it a solid spot for a satisfying diner meal.

People are saying

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

"You have to try their American Food, especially the chicken pot pie."

"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.

06
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.

The pastrami sandwich features hand cut pastrami with a classic deli style. It pairs well with other American classics and delivers a delicious, satisfying taste.

An upscale atmosphere blends with a classic New York diner feel here. The coffee and food stand out as much better than typical diners.

People are saying

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

"I found the pastrami sandwich to be absolutely delicious."

"The diner food here is great with hearty portions."

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.

07
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.

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.

An upscale diner with next level diner food and great service. Burgers stand out and booths are easy to grab even on busy nights.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the great outdoor seating space."

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

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.

08
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.

Big, clean space offers a classic American diner experience with quick service. Staff handle orders efficiently and engage in friendly conversation while serving typical diner food.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the cheesecake at this diner; it's rich and creamy."

"I enjoyed the delicious and generous pastrami sandwich."

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.

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.

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

Offers a classic American diner experience with friendly service and old school diner flavors. Features delicatessen options and a legendary cheesecake alongside a delicious burger.

People are saying

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

"This diner's cheesecake is rich, tangy, and considered iconic."

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

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

Classic diner vibe meets friendly, fast service with a menu that shines at breakfast and lunch. The club sandwich stands out, and the spot works well for a quick bite before shows.

People are saying

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

"You have to get the chicken pot pie; it's huge!"

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

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.

11
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.

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.

Ample seating and classic diner vibes create a welcoming atmosphere. Servers with decades of experience provide great service and engage diners naturally. The brisket and New York pastrami sandwich stand out as notable dishes.

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 Diner's pastrami sandwiches are piled high with mountains of meat."

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.

12
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.

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

Classic New York diner vibe shines through with speedy service and good portions. The menu features great omelettes and consistently good food, making it a solid spot for an authentic diner meal.

People are saying

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

"This diner's staff is friendly and keeps the coffee topped up."

"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.

13
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.

Formica tables create a classic diner atmosphere. The place has a strong diner vibe throughout.

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 pastrami sandwich here is huge and intensely beefy."

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.

14
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 sandwiches here stand out for their excellent flavor and perfect preparation. Prices remain low, making them a solid choice for a satisfying meal.

Classic American diner vibes come through with fresh food and a cute diner atmosphere. Staff stay attentive, making it a calm spot just off a busy area.

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."

"You've got to hear the amazing harmonies and voices at this diner."

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.

15
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.

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.

Atmosphere feels like an old-school diner with original art pieces on the walls. Seating is comfortable and the vibe is cool and nostalgic.

People are saying

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

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

"The pastrami sandwich here is made just right."

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.

16
Premier Deli image 1

Upstairs offers a spacious dining area with pretty murals and soft music, creating a relaxing atmosphere away from street noise. The downstairs area tends to be busy and chaotic, especially in the morning. Overall, the space feels speedy and clean with plenty of room to sit and eat peacefully upstairs.

Lean cuts make the pastrami sandwiches stand out. The Super Pastrami Sandwich comes in an incredible size and includes two pickles, enough for two people.

Quick service and traditional American diner breakfast define this spot. The diner stays very clean and serves a hearty breakfast with good people behind the counter.

People are saying

"I loved the tender, moist, and delicious sandwiches."

"I enjoyed the pastrami sandwich; it was delicious and huge."

"It's a great diner for quick food with kind staff."

Good to know

1

A small version of American tea or coffee costs $2.50.

2

The pastrami sandwich costs $30, which is significantly higher than typical deli prices.

3

There is an additional charge of $2 to order a breakfast item past noon.

17
Roxy Delicatessen image 1

Casual diner with 180° street views and walls covered in caricature drawings of famous actors creates a charming, lively atmosphere. Bright lighting and a bustling vibe give an authentic classic New York feel.

Pastrami sandwiches come piled high with tender, perfectly seasoned meat on fresh, soft rye bread. Portions are large enough to share, and the hot pastrami option stands out as fantastic.

Busy diner runs with just two staff, creating a lively but stretched atmosphere. Offers late-night kitchen hours, 180° street views, and a retro old school diner and deli vibe.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast here to be amazing and delicious."

"The cheesecake here is rich, creamy, and unforgettable."

"I found the pastrami sandwich to be delicious and juicy."

Good to know

1

A 20% service fee is added to all bills.

2

No card payment is accepted; cash only.

3

Prices are high, with burgers at $20 and grilled cheese at $17.

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