Katz's Delicatessen
LegendaryAn undisputed New York institution since 1888, Katz's is famous for its hand-carved pastrami and corned beef. Each sandwich is a masterpiece of tender, flavorful meat piled impossibly high on rye bread. The no-frills atmosphere, complete with ticket system and communal tables, is all part of the charm.
Sarge's Delicatessen
24 HoursA true New York standby since 1964, Sarge's is famous for serving authentic Jewish deli fare 24 hours a day. Their Monster sandwich (with corned beef, pastrami, roast beef, turkey, salami, tongue, and swiss cheese) is legendary, but their perfectly executed classics like pastrami on rye and matzo ball soup keep regulars coming back at all hours.
Eisenberg's Sandwich Shop
ClassicRecently reopened as S&P Lunch (its original name from the 1920s), this classic lunch counter preserves the spirit of old New York. The no-nonsense sandwiches, egg creams, and matzoh ball soup have kept loyal customers coming back for generations. The tuna melt is a perfect rendition of the deli classic.
2nd Ave Deli
Kosher ClassicThough no longer on Second Avenue, this kosher deli maintains its authentic roots with old-world recipes and techniques. The chicken soup with matzoh balls is widely considered the best in the city, and the corned beef and pastrami are prepared with the same care and tradition as when it opened in 1954.
Barney Greengrass
Fish SpecialistThe self-proclaimed 'Sturgeon King' has been serving exceptional smoked fish since 1908. The Upper West Side institution is known for its timeless Jewish appetizing classics, particularly the sturgeon and nova with scrambled eggs. The vintage decor and no-frills service are part of what makes this place special.
B&H Dairy
Hidden GemThis tiny kosher dairy restaurant has been a staple of the East Village since 1938. The counter-only seating creates an intimate atmosphere where you can watch your tuna melt being prepared or your challah bread being toasted. Their homemade soups and pierogies are the definition of comfort food.
What Makes a Great NYC Deli?
The soul of a true New York deli goes beyond just serving great food. The best establishments combine quality ingredients with tradition, atmosphere, and a certain unmistakable New York attitude. Whether it's the hand-carved technique at Katz's or the generations-old recipes at Barney Greengrass, these delis represent an important cultural tradition worth preserving.
While many excellent delis like Russ & Daughters and Liebman's didn't make our list, they're still worth visiting for anyone wanting to fully explore NYC's deli scene. Each neighborhood has its own local favorites, often with fiercely loyal customers who will defend their chosen deli's superiority.
This list is based on multiple visits to each establishment, and all meals were paid for by dothings.nyc (we don't accept free food or special treatment).