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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Sandwich spots in the LES

Made for those who treat their lunch as a discovery mission and refuse to settle for a standard deli-counter sandwich.

Based on 505 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Dirt Candy image 1
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Vegetarian restaurant

Open kitchen reveals chefs crafting inventive vegetarian dishes in a cozy, dim setting with sticky tables and dated decor. Atmosphere balances creative energy with a welcoming vibe, featuring thoughtful touches like surprise gifts between courses. Wine pairings highlight women-owned wineries, adding a unique element to the dining experience.

Creative dishes deliver an interesting dining experience with excellent flavors. The team focuses on serving delicious, innovative food that stands out.

Creative sandwiches stand out here, especially the fennel chopped cheese sandwich and the tiny cheese sandwich with kim chi ketchup. Both offer unique flavors and fun twists on classic ideas.

People are saying

"I had one of the best vegetarian meals I've ever experienced."

"The onion ice cream sandwich had a fantastic part that was like a savory dessert."

"The food here is so creative and interesting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at this restaurant.

2

The tasting menu costs $105 per person.

3

Wine pairing is an additional $50 on top of the meal cost.

02
Double Chicken Please image 1

Small, Japan-inspired bar splits into two distinct rooms: dark, refined backroom with craft cocktails and lively front room offering draft drinks and casual bites. Atmosphere feels chic and sexy, with innovative cocktails and standout chicken dishes drawing a dedicated crowd despite long waits.

Inventive drinks showcase Asian flavors and creative twists like the mango sticky rice drink with unexpected darker notes. The Red Eye Gravy offers a complex and interesting taste experience.

Chicken sandwich offers a perfect balance of moisture without being overly juicy. The plant-based Tofu sandwich stands out as a top vegan option with rich flavor and texture.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are inventive and unlike anything I've tried."

"The inventive cocktails here are unlike anything I've tried."

"The cocktails are interesting and extremely creative."

Good to know

1

Reservations are definitely needed, as they sell out quickly.

2

Be prepared to wait outside for at least an hour on weekends.

3

The wait time for the coop side can be 3-4 hours.

03
Russ & Daughters Cafe image 1
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.

Food options offer interesting flavors and include a side of sour cream that adds a pleasant twist. The atmosphere and location create an engaging setting for conversations and meeting new people.

Smoked salmon lox on a bagel forms the core of the sandwich, served unassembled on an old wooden plank. The presentation recalls a ploughman's lunch and pairs well with a Shrub drink.

People are saying

"The bagels here are awesome, especially with the smoked salmon."

"The brisket sandwich on a gluten-free bagel is a 10/10."

"The food options here are interesting and delicious."

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
Supermoon Bakehouse image 1

Minimalist bakery space resembles an empty warehouse with no indoor seating, offering only a service counter and a small outdoor seating area. Atmosphere feels sterile yet chill, contrasting with the heavenly smell of fresh baked goods. Outdoor tables provide a cozy spot to enjoy some of the best croissants and pastries available.

Pastries feature interesting flavor profiles like spicy croissants and Thai tea eclairs. Many items offer unique fillings and good layering that stand out from classic baked goods.

The Ube Pandan Ice Cream sandwich stands out with its unique flavor combination. They offer ice cream sandwiches alongside sorbet options and seasonal specials.

People are saying

"The pastries here are amazingly creative and delicious."

"Their pastries are interesting and delicious, especially the matcha strawberry croissant."

"I'd plan a detour just for their Ube ice cream sandwich."

Good to know

1

They only accept cards and do not accept cash.

2

Check their working days and hours before visiting as they donโ€™t open every day.

3

Get there early as a line forms before they open.

05
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 an interesting atmosphere and stands as an institution with a rich history. Unique items like pastrami salmon and Turkish Delight add to its distinct character.

Bagel sandwiches feature high-quality smoked salmon and a variety of salmon options. The classic lox and goat cream cheese sandwich stands out for its well-crafted, delicious flavor and iconic experience.

People are saying

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

"The salmon sandwich was so fresh and flavorful."

"I found the sandwiches and bagels here pretty interesting."

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.

06
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.

Unique concept and interesting people create a distinct atmosphere. The overall experience feels engaging and different.

Pastrami sandwich stands out as a defining feature, setting a high standard for flavor and quality. Corned beef and roast beef sandwiches also feature prominently, making it a go-to spot for classic deli sandwiches.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the pastrami sandwich at least once."

"The pastrami sandwich here is packed with wonderfully melty beef."

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.

07
Ginger and Lemongrass image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small space with paper lanterns and decorative vines creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options, with a large front window that opens to the street. Energy is quiet and inviting, suited for dates or casual outings.

Flavors come packed and fresh with many interesting dishes to try. The cocktail menu offers several unique drink options featuring ginger and lemongrass.

Lemongrass tofu sandwich stands out with strong flavor and large portions. The salmon roll and chicken sandwich offer good taste, with the chicken sandwich carrying a mild spice even when ordered mild.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, is so flavorful and comforting."

"The food here is flavor-packed and surprisingly interesting."

"I loved the lemongrass tofu sandwich; I wanted another."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 5:30 PM on Tuesdays with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

The kitchen closes before 10 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak days and holidays to secure a table.

08
Essex Market image 1
Produce market

Spanning over three floors with a vibrant upstairs and a quieter lower level, the market offers a beautiful space filled with diverse food stalls and seating areas. The atmosphere blends authentic NYC energy with a lively bar scene and quality sound, creating a dynamic place to eat and explore.

A wide variety of interesting vendors offer street food, high-end pastries, and diverse groceries. The market hosts cooking classes and events and features distinctive architecture.

Freshly prepared dishes include gourmet sandwiches and authentic ethnic options. Sandwiches come with impressive quality and pair well with other fresh items like fruit and pastries.

People are saying

"This market has so many delicious food options to explore."

"You can find excellent sandwiches among the diverse food vendors here."

"I found so many interesting food options and vendors here."

Good to know

1

Restaurants close at 7 PM on Saturday night.

2

The market gets crowded during the lunchtime rush.

3

Management frequently closes the seating area for events, disrupting diners.

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Lower East Side, New York

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