The 13 Best Jewish Delis In NYC

New York is well-known for its colorful blend of cultures, and some credit must go to the Jewish delis that have greatly influenced the cultural landscape in the city. The history of the classic Jewish deli began in the 1920s and 1930s when it became a hub for Jewish Americans to integrate into broader American society. The immense popularity and expansion of these establishments nurtured a unique Jewish-American identity we witness in New York today. 

Recently, the Skirball Cultural Center staged an exhibition titled "I'll Have What She's Having," which captured the soul of Jewish-American delis in great detail, according to the New York Historical Society. The many exhibits highlighted how different delis played a significant role in the city's growth and modernization.

Although the number of traditional delis in New York has dwindled, with iconic establishments like Carnegie Deli and Fine & Schapiro closing their doors for good, the city still offers plenty of old and new-wave delis where you can indulge in a towering stack of pastrami on rye or savor a steaming bowl of matzo ball soup. And for those of us with a weakness for bagels with lox, some genuinely great appetizing stores are scattered around the food-rich boroughs of the city.

For over 100 hundred years, Katz's Delicatessen has held its place as a New York institution. It's where celebrities and ordinary citizens indulge in authentic New York deli cuisine. From its early days as a humble sausage factory, Katz's has evolved into a lively eatery with unmistakable character.

What sets Katz's Delicatessen apart is their intimate relationship with customers. The meat is sliced on order, by hand, from the finest, slow-cured beef. On the menu that spans more than a few pages, you will find all the Jewish deli classics like the matzo ball soup, chopped liver, and kishka. Breakfast items like tongue omelets, cheese blintzes, and latkes are executed flawlessly. Despite their expertise in the classics, Katz's team has struggled to win over customers with their Philly cheesesteak and chili con carne. We suggest sticking with classics when visiting this legendary deli.

If you're new to Katz's Delicatessen, you might find it a bit overwhelming. The place seems disorganized, and their ticketing system might initially be confusing. Just make sure you hold on to your ticket, or you might be charged an extra $50. Give it some time, and you will learn to appreciate the small details that have become part of Katz's identity.

If you're a fan of smoked fish, Russ & Daughters is a must-visit. This iconic appetizing store, located in the Lower East Side, was established in 1904 by Joel Russ, a Jewish immigrant from Poland. Today, the business is run by fourth-generation owners Niki Russ Federman and Josh Russ Tupper, who have expanded the business to include the Russ & Daughters Cafe and a retail counter in Brooklyn, honoring the century-long family legacy.

At Russ & Daughters, customers are greeted with a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere filled with vintage photographs and charming staff. It's the place to grab a classic Lox bagel with cream cheese for a quick lunch or fill your fridge with top-quality specialties like Nova Scotia salmon, which the staff at Russ & Daughters will slice for you with great pride in their eyes. 

The whitefish salad is rumored to be exceptional, and another menu item you should try is the Babka French Toast for something sweet. Russ & Daughters is busy during typical lunch hours, although waiting in line is an experience. Consider waiting, and you'll soon be chatted up by the shop's regulars and learn a great deal about fish.

The 2nd Ave Deli is a beloved spot in Gotham, renowned for its authentic Jewish cuisine. It's not just a restaurant but a piece of New York City history that locals have been missing since the tragic passing of its founder, Abe Lebewohl. After the original location was closed down and replaced by a bank, New Yorkers were left feeling upset. However, Abe's family has done their best to revive his legacy by opening two new locations where they continue to serve the original recipes. Though slightly less authentic, the new branches still attract a great deal of business, with queues stretching out the door at peak hours.

Steve Cohen has been managing the 2nd Ave Deli for over four decades, and during that time, he's turned it into much more than just a restaurant that serves delicious Jewish food. His community-first approach has created a strong bond between generations of customers, making the deli a social institution at the heart of New York City. The deli offers an authentic taste of old New York kosher Jewish culture, with classic dishes like pastrami sandwiches brimming with tender, juicy meat, and matzo ball soup that will transport you back in time.

For over a century, Barney Greengrass has been a treasured fixture of NYC. Founded in 1908 by Barney Greengrass in Harlem, the deli relocated to its present location on Amsterdam Avenue in 1929 and has remained true to its roots ever since. Barney, affectionately named The Sturgeon King in the 1930s by state senator James J. Frawley, would be proud to see his legacy endure. The classic Jewish deli has stood the test of time and welcomed many famous visitors, including Nora Ephron, Jerry Seinfeld, and Anthony Bourdain. Today, Gary, the third-generation Greengrass, ensures the New York standard is flawlessly maintained.

At Barney Greengrass, customers can relax and enjoy good company surrounded by the timeless interior. The deli is open for breakfast and lunch and serves highly rated sturgeon, Nova Scotia salmon, and eggs scrambled with lox and onions. Although chicken liver and corned beef are technically on the menu, you want to come here to savor the authentic smoked fish and herring. Remember, it's cash-only, and prices are steep. Nonetheless, for those seeking a classic deli experience, Barney Greengrass is a deli that shouldn't be missed.

Mile End Deli is a unique departure from traditional delis, paying homage to Jewish roots and Canadian cuisine. Joel Tietman founded the first Brooklyn restaurant in 2010, inspired by his childhood memories of his grandmother's cooking. Inside you'll find a minimalist design that points to its past as a garage. Concrete floors and stylish vintage lamps in black give it a unique touch. As you enter, the staff will greet you with a warm atmosphere that feels like a cozy family gathering.

Named after the Jewish community in Montreal, Mile End Deli offers a blend of Jewish and Canadian cuisine. Big Jewcey smoked meat poutine and Montreal-style beef brisket with mustard on rye are highly recommended. Beware of the mustard, though, as it's pretty loud. The classic deli Reuben sandwich is overflowing with pastrami and brisket, and just like the rest of the dishes, it is made from scratch and with impeccable attention to detail. 

Moreover, Mile End Deli keeps its menu fresh with dishes like whitefish croquettes and chicken shawarma platters. It's the place to go if you want a less traditional deli experience. It's a busy spot with no reservations, but generous portions should compensate for the time spent in line.

Ben's Deli and Restaurant has served the finest authentic New York Kosher delicatessen and Eastern European comfort foods for 50 years. With five locations scattered throughout Long Island, Queens, and Florida, this family-owned and operated business has come far and wide since its inception in Baldwin, Long Island. The owner's persistence and dedication eventually led to the acquisition of Lou G. Siegel, a renowned establishment in the heart of New York City's garment district. This sprawling location, which can seat 360 customers, has become Ben's flagship. Despite changes in ownership, old customers of the G. Siegel keep turning up just for the memories alone.

Ben's has garnered a well-earned reputation as one of the top Jewish comfort food joints in New York City. The menu goes above and beyond the typical fare of burgers, steaks, and salads, featuring dishes made with only the finest kosher ingredients. While the pastrami can be a bit dry, it still delivers the flavor. Top dishes include the soul-warming hot tongue and the matzo ball soup. Savor the authentic Jewish cuisine at Ben's Restaurant and Deli; you will be treated to impeccable service, a cozy atmosphere, and bottomless pickles with coleslaw.

In the heart of Brooklyn lies a family-owned and operated deli that has satisfied New Yorkers since 2016. The brothers behind this legendary eatery, Zach and Alex Frankel, have poured their life-long experiences as New Yorkers into every dish, creating a timeless appeal that is hard to resist. A true homage to their roots, Frankel's Delicatessen & Appetizing offers a glimpse into their forerunners' culinary traditions.

Frankel's is a no-frills joint that takes pride in its well-polished menu, simple decor, and quick service. Every dish is crafted with love, from the matzo-ball soup to the brisket sandwiches served on Amy's challah bread. Their bagel with pastrami salmon, scallion cream cheese, and dill cucumber salad is a crowd-pleaser, as is the bacon, egg, and cheese on a roll. The bacon and egg are perfectly cooked, and the roll is soft and fluffy.

The atmosphere is cozy, the service is friendly, and the food is delicious. This is a place where you can enjoy the comfort of traditional Jewish cuisine without breaking the bank or waiting in long lines.

Don't be fooled by the unassuming exterior; David's Brisket House is a hidden gem in the Brooklyn area, serving an authentic deli experience with top-notch meat sandwiches. The deli's history dates back to the 1960s when Slovakian Jew David opened his place in the Bed-Stuy neighborhood. Over the years, the area has changed, as well as the clientele, but its recipes have stood the test of time. Today, Riyadh and Farouq Gazali own and supervise the deli, bringing a halal component to a Jewish establishment. It seems to be working.

David's Brisket House is renowned for its succulent brisket, served on a roll or with a potato salad. The meat is perfectly cooked with a ton of juiciness. As you'd expect, the menu offers most Jewish specials, including pastrami, corned beef sandwiches, and matzo ball soup. You could wash it down with a unique house Pickle Juice Martini or end the meal on a sweet note — the black-and-white cookie at this deli is huge and comes with extra soft icing. While it is pricier, the generous portions and fast service make visiting David's Brisket House worth it.

Sarge's Delicatessen and Diner has been a beloved spot in Murray Hill, drawing in customers around the clock for nearly 60 years. The decor takes you back to the 1970s, adding to the charm of this classic establishment. Sarge seamlessly blends elements of a Jewish deli and a 24/7 diner, creating a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere. Despite its modest size, finding a seat at Sarge's is usually a breeze. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a live concert, as the eatery doubles as a venue for pop-rock bands like Haim.

At Sarge's Delicatessen, you'll find a menu with the most traditional Jewish deli favorites, including the classic pastrami on rye and comforting Matzo ball soup. But if you're up for a challenge, you should sink your teeth in one of the biggest sandwiches in New York. The monstrous beast measures 10 to 12 inches high and includes pastrami, corned beef, roast beef, fresh roast turkey, salami, lettuce, tomato, cole slaw, and Russian dressing, all piled high between three thick slices of seeded rye bread. 

If you have any room left, consider ordering a piece of the signature cheesecake. Overall, Sarge's Delicatessen is more than just a local eatery. Welcoming tourists and locals alike, it has become a source of comfort in a city that never sleeps.

Pastrami Queen is the original New York deli from the 1950s, formerly known as Pastrami King. Although it has moved around several times, it finally found its home in the Upper East Side, offering customers an authentic taste of a bygone era. Despite its unassuming exterior, the deli's real magic happens inside. With the additional location on the Upper East Side and a new spot opening soon, Pastrami Queen promises an authentic delicatessen experience that celebrates classic Jewish Eastern European cuisine.

Their menu has something for everyone, from comforting matzo ball soup to slow-cooked brisket with mashed potatoes and gravy. Their pastrami sandwich is a must-try served on fresh rye bread from Orwasher's Bakery. But that's not all; they offer other flavorful dishes like jumbo knishes, garlic fries, and a tangy health salad. And for dessert, their famous black and white cookies are a must-have.

Come to Pastrami Queen for the 1950s vibe and their expertly hand-cut pastrami that is downright juicy and has just the right amount of smoke. Even with a small kitchen, Pastrami Queen never compromises on the quality of their Kosher meats.

For almost half a century, the famous Mill Basin Deli has been a popular spot for those seeking delicious Jewish cuisine in Brooklyn, New York. What sets this restaurant apart is its unique dining space and art gallery combination, showcasing an impressive collection of paintings by renowned artists such as Marc Chagall and Erté. The artworks lend a touch of sophistication to the classic interiors and make your meal at Mill Basin feel memorable.

Mill Basin has a lengthy menu featuring everything from matzo ball soup and crispy salmon to burgers. One of their most renowned selections is the smoked meat sandwich and homemade latkes with a delicious serving of applesauce and sour cream. For something less traditional, the PLT sandwich is a must-try. It features pastrami cooked on a griddle to a crisp, bacon-like texture and served on toasted rye bread with shredded iceberg, tomato, and mayo. It's an absolute crowd-pleaser.

The deli can be crowded during peak hours, but the waiting list is managed efficiently by a friendly and organized receptionist. Excellent food and a surprisingly high-end beer and cider list make this an essential deli to visit.

PJ Bernstein, located in Manhattan's Upper East Side, has been serving traditional Jewish recipes since 1965. Alex Slobodski took over the deli in 1983, and today his son Steve and grandson Eugene Slobodski continue to run the establishment. Chef Tommy Jedrzejezyk has led the kitchen for over two decades, ensuring the time-honored traditions remain. 

PJ Bernstein has become a magnet for the famous, attracting the likes of Hollywood icons like Michael Douglas, Sharon Stone, and Cuba Gooding Jr. Notably. Even revered political figures such as Senator Charles Schumer and former Mayor Ed Koch have enjoyed a meal here.

If you're searching for a restaurant that serves a mix of old-school and modern Jewish cuisine, PJ Bernstein is the place to be. Their menu boasts a diverse collection of dishes that cater to different generations of deli clientele. Their handmade kreplach, borscht, classic matzo ball, and noodle soup are all must-tries. However, the genuine star item is their signature corned beef sandwich, served on rye bread and sliced thin like the finest Italian ham. 

All of their dishes, including the Triple Delight chicken soup, kreplach ravioli, and pierogies, are prepared on the premises, so you know you're getting a fresh meal at all times. Be sure to check their nightly specials as well. Overall, PJ Bernstein is an absolute must-visit if you're in the area.

Shelsky's of Brooklyn is a fabulous deli that serves exceptional house-cured smoked fish and traditional Jewish fare. Established in 2011 by Peter Shelsky and Lewis Spada, the establishment was born out of a desire to revive a long-standing tradition and has since blossomed into a full-fledged deli, bagel, and appetizing shop. 

The eatery was opened in 2011 by Peter Shelsky and Lewis Spada, who wanted to revive a long-standing tradition inspired by childhood memories. The deli's decor pays homage to Jewish culture, and the friendly and attentive staff makes the experience even more enjoyable.

The bagels at Shelsky's are some of the best in New York. That explains their new bagel location in Brooklyn, where you can find some intriguingly delicious-sounding options like the Sichuan peppercorn or chili crisp cream cheese bagel. There's so much detail in making the perfect bagel, and Shelsky has nailed their sourdough recipe. A visit to Shelsky's also wouldn't be complete without sampling a few of their specialties, like the house-smoked Nova and Pastrami salmon and the highly enticing whitefish salad.

The lines may be lengthy, but the staff keeps things moving swiftly, so don't let that deter you. If there's no seating available, you can always opt for takeout instead. While the ticketing system may be unclear, all is forgiven once you bite into the perfectly crisp bagel.