Nothin’ Else Like It: New York's Best Delis
As the legacy of Eastern European Jewish immigrants, delicatessens hold a special place in the hearts of New Yorkers
Savor the robust flavors, enticing scents and vibrant community spirit when you explore the best delis in New York.
Best Chicken Soup
Tease your taste buds with soup that features a flavorful broth and light, fluffy matzo ball at the James Beard Award-winning 2nd Avenue Deli (162 East 33rd St. and 1442 1st Ave., NY). Perhaps it's the hint of fresh dill added just before serving, or maybe the extra chicken in each stock pot that makes the soup special. No matter what the prize-winning secret is, it's clearly the attention to authentic kosher flavors and techniques that’s made the delicatessen thrive since the 1950s. Nosh on hot sandwiches piled high with traditional smoked meat at the Midtown or Upper East Side locations, or have items from the extensive menu delivered to your hotel anywhere in Manhattan.
Best Scene in a Movie
Time your arrival at Katz's Delicatessen (205 E Houston St.) just right and you could sit at the table where Meg Ryan's character amazed and embarrassed Billy Crystal in that memorable scene from “When Harry Met Sally.” Lots of other people will have the same idea, so don't be disappointed if you find yourself elsewhere in the spacious deli whispering the second favorite part of that scene: “I'll have what she's having.
While you wait for your order, check out the photos of celebrities lining the walls. Katz's prides itself on the robust flavor created by its slow-cured meat—or for a lighter appetite, treat yourself to creamy coleslaw, a sweet potato knish or an authentic New York Egg Cream drink.
Best Newcomer to the NY Deli Scene
You won't find bacon at any kosher deli, but if you fancy a new twist on traditional fare, head to Mile End Deli (three locations: 53 Bond St., NY; 230 Park Ave., NY; and 97A Hoyt St., Brooklyn). Inspired by the owner's Canadian heritage, the menu includes crunchy bacon, maple syrup and poutine—a north-of-the border specialty made of French fries, cheese curds and chicken gravy. Middle Eastern dishes such as falafel pita, Tunisian tuna salad and eggplant sabich sandwiches also share space on the menu with classic Reuben sandwiches, chicken schnitzel, matzo ball soup and bagels
Best Old Time Brooklyn Deli Food
Flash back to the '60s when the neon sign over the door to Gottlieb's Restaurant (352 Roebling St., Brooklyn) flickered on after dark. Once a traditional kosher deli, it still serves up the classics, including kugel, sliced smoked meat and extra sour pickles. With the eclectic addition of Chinese chicken dishes and savory Hungarian beef stew, Gottlieb's remains an integral part of its neighborhood. Skip back to the '90s at Jay & Lloyd's Deli (2718 Ave. U, Brooklyn). Juicy, overstuffed sandwiches and Brooklyn favorites with names like “Dippedy Do Da!” and “Lloyd's Mom's Favorite” make your choices fascinating. Bring the kids along. There's a special menu for them featuring pigs in a blanket (hot dogs in buns).
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