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Local picks in New York

Jewish deli lunch spots

When you need a lunch spot, you want the reliability of a Jewish deli.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
PJ Bernstein image 1
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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.

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."

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

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

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.

02
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.

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."

"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.

03
Russ & Daughters Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Interior has a retro vibe with classy servers in white coats. Known for smoked fish and bagels, it offers a true Jewish deli experience. Lunch serves simple fish dishes on a rustic wooden plank, perfect for dine-in or take-away.

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.

Lunch features simple dishes served on a repurposed wooden plank, giving a rustic feel. Options focus on good fish and include both dine-in and take-away choices.

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 salmon platter at this Lunch Spot was fantastic and fresh."

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.

04
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.

An authentic old-school Jewish deli serving all the classics with pastrami that stands out among others. It offers a traditional and old-fashioned experience that's rare to find these days.

Lunch features classic deli sandwiches paired with Dr Brown cream soda and a chocolate egg cream that rounds out the meal.

People are saying

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

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

"This Lunch Spot's pastrami sandwich is made with abundant, delicious meat."

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.

05
Katz's Delicatessen image 1

Rustic deli buzzes with lively atmosphere and tight seating. Classic Jewish dishes shine, keeping traditional NYC deli culture alive. Arrive early to beat the lunch rush downtown and enjoy meat carvers offering tastings.

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.

Arriving just before the lunch rush means no queue. This spot fills up quickly for downtown lunch.

People are saying

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

"The pastrami sandwich at this lunch spot is fabulous."

"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.

06
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.

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.

Lunch features authentic NY style dishes with lunch specials considered among the city's notable options. The spot gets busy at lunch but offers a solid experience worth the wait.

People are saying

"This pastrami sandwich is delicious and huge."

"This lunch spot's pastrami sandwich is outstanding and delicious."

"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.

07
Russ & Daughters image 1

Narrow, small shop with no indoor seating and often crowded atmosphere. The vibe is old school, evoking a sense of history and tradition with a calm, unhurried pace despite the crowd. Outdoor benches offer brief respite while enjoying classic bagel and lox combinations.

Offers a classic Jewish deli experience with a strong reputation. Known for its historical significance and consistent quality in traditional deli fare.

Quick and satisfying lunch options focus on bagels and other tasty foods. Expect about a 20-minute wait during weekday lunch hours.

People are saying

"I thought the salmon bagel was the best I ever had."

"The Jewish Deli here has amazing smoked fish, especially the lox."

"This Lunch Spot's smoked salmon and schmears are a must-try."

Good to know

1

You must take a number when you first enter to be served.

2

There is no dine-in option; it's takeout only.

3

Expect long wait times, often over an hour, especially after 10am.

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 Jewish deli flavors with a classic New York style. Serves tasty, traditional dishes that feel like a hearty, home-cooked meal.

Offers a soup and half sandwich deal that fills you up for lunch. Known for its pastrami sandwich, it suits cold or rainy days well.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot's pastrami is juicy, tender, and delicious."

"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.

09
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.

Offers a Montreal-style Jewish deli experience blending traditional Jewish dishes with local specialties. The owner brings authentic Montreal deli flavors to the menu.

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."

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

"The Jewish Deli's smoked meat is delicious and has an amazing texture."

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.

10
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.

Offers a true authentic Jewish deli experience with a focus on old-school style and small, local charm.

Lunch offers a high price point, with charges around $50 per person. Meals serve as a social occasion, often enjoyed with friends.

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 lunch spot has a classic, inviting atmosphere."

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.

11
Mr. Broadway image 1

Kosher spot offers authentic Jewish deli flavors with an Israeli twist and a vibrant atmosphere filled with lively music. Spacious seating and exceptional service make it perfect for lunch without reservations. Enjoy creative cocktails at the full bar in a modern setting.

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.

Lunch features exceptional service with staff who are helpful and attentive. No reservation is needed on Sundays, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and fresh."

"This is a great lunch spot with delicious, high-standard food."

"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.

12
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.

Offers a genuine old school New York Jewish deli experience with classic dishes like pastrami Reuben sandwiches and bagel and lox. Serves some of the best traditional Jewish deli food and smoked fish available.

Lunch draws a steady crowd with a short wait time around 10 minutes. The spot offers a satisfying meal experience that stands out for brunch and lunch occasions.

People are saying

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

"The smoked fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The potato pancakes at this Lunch Spot are the best I've ever had."

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.

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