
The Best Delis in New York

It’s 100 percent guaranteed that you’ll walk by a deli while visiting the city that never sleeps. Delis belong to NYC like the famous yellow cabs and the subway. The history of delis in New York goes back to the year 1800 when Jewish immigrants came to NYC. They brought their cuisine and traditions to the city and opened most of the delis you’ll find in the city today.
The first deli opened in 1885. We love delis not only because most of them have reasonable prices and offer great food options but they are also simple and authentic. You’ll find delis in New York that even include a small grocery store.
Delis in New York: Our all-time favorites
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01
Katz’s Delicatessen
American Restaurant in Lower East SideAdd to myNY addedAn absolute institution in New York is the Katz’s Delicatessen Restaurant in Manhattan, founded in 1888. Cineastes will immediately think of the film scene with Sally’s fake orgasm during “Harry and Sally”. And what should we say? Those were really the best sandwiches (we tested corner beef and pastrami) we ever had.
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02
Mile End Delicatessen
Deli in Boerum HillAdd to myNY addedMile End Delicatessen is an absolute insider. It was opened by a married couple, Noah Bernamoff from Canada and Rae Cohen from New York.
Together they brought back their childhood memories to their customers by serving recipes their grandmas used to cook for them which brought this place on our list of the best delis in New York.
With a little Canadian influence, Mile End Delicatessen has become this really special place where you’ll find high quality food, kosher and super delicious.
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03
Pastrami Queen
Other Restaurants in Upper East SideOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedBesides the Katz’s delicatessen, the Pastrami Queen is one of our favourite pastrami shops. The sandwiches are kosher, incredibly tasty and really thickly topped. The shop has remained unchanged for almost 30 years and stands for very good dishes.
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04
Frankel's Delicatessen Brooklyn
Café in WilliamsburgAdd to myNY addedFrankel’s Delicatessen in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, is a modern take on the classic Jewish deli, opened in 2016 by brothers Zach and Alex Frankel. Known for its high-quality sandwiches and nostalgic atmosphere, the deli offers favorites like pastrami, smoked fish, latkes, and bagels.
With a focus on traditional flavors and a casual, welcoming vibe, Frankel’s has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic New York deli fare.
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05
Majestic Delicatessen
American Restaurant in Theatre DistrictReuben Sandwich with corned beef, cheese and sauerkraut. Classic New York dishAdd to myNY addedThis Deli is convincing, because it offers a very fair price despite its top location directly at the famous Times Square. Among other things, there are sandwiches, omelettes, burgers and chips. Often you can order combos that will definitely fill you up!
Steffen
I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide. Also check out my hotel finder for New York!
