50 Best Delis in New York

“Wonderful food at Barney Greengrass- as always! Go support an excellent NYC family owned and operated restaurant with amazing food and great service. They same family has been lovingly running the place since 1908! In 2021 they have Lots of spacious outdoor dining. Super attentive waitstaff - our waterglass was never empty- and just a happy peaceful atmosphere- hard to be sad when your belly is full of delicious food made with love. Get the latkes- they are to die for! Best lox we’ve had in the city and the #9 sandwich really should be renamed the Bubbe Zayde - it’s a double decker on rye half pastrami half corned beef coleslaw and Russian dressing- tasted as amazing as it looks, and truly brought back memories noshin with my Bubbe and Zayde. Also the Blintzes are incredible“

“The kimchi and pickled radish tasted just like in Korea, and the bulgogi rice bowl, teriyaki rice bowl, and soba noodles were very delicious. It was also surprising that there were more local customers than Korean customers. Korean food seems to have become more popular now. I really liked the smiles of the staff. I think I'll come here at least once every two days while I'm in Manhattan. Of course, if I lived here, I would want to come every day. Since there are only a few tables, it may be difficult for groups to visit, but they allow about 3 people to sit at each table and arrange about 3-5 tables. Basically, it is more like a take-out store. There were 6 of us, 3 at each table, and we ate well. Highly recommended“

“Great service - order at the front, cook handles the sandwich in the back. Neighborhood deli that apparently made the OG chopped cheese. It's a bit less cheesy than I thought, but it's very juicy. Love that its panini pressed? Be prepared and grab paper napkins.“

“This place is such a great addition to the neighborhood. Great music with tons of music memorabilia to look at. Excellent food and drink but the real draw is the atmosphere. The owners are awesome too - they just want everyone to have a good time.“

“So I am not a local New Yorker but I often come up from DC to visit. My main goal when visiting New York however is discovering and devouring delicious food. That being said, my friends and I spent a long weekend in East Village partying it up till 6am each night! I still can't believe we did that. But in the midst of our late night partying, we would stop to refuel by grabbing a deli sandwich at this small bodega. You walk in and there is a wall full of colorful signs describing multiple types of sandwiches you can order. All looked spectacular but on the first night I ordered "The Biden". All the ingredients spoke to me and man what a sandwich! The flavor explosion was incredible with sun dried tomatoes and avocado on a croissant. I forget what my buddies got but they were raving about them too. The next night I got a meatball sub with grilled onions and once again I was in Heaven. We all were. So please keep this small business going strong and check out their sandwiches. All across their walls they have photos with celebrities so clearly they are popular. Thank you Sunny and Annie! Your food was one of the best highlights of our trip.“

“Went to see the trade center and it was super rainy. We were gonna go to BK to get a chopped cheese but the weather said otherwise. Stopped at this place and ended getting a chopped cheese. Was pretty good! Fries were crispy and right too. They have a lot of options. Stop in if you're in the area. From what I saw, you can't go wrong. They serve beer there as well!“

“This unassumingly-named place is popular and for good reason. They make their own soy milk and 豆腐花 (tofu pudding) fresh every day. You can get it in a small or large takeout container. ($2.50 for a small thing of warm soy milk; not sure what the pudding prices are, but that's clearly their best selling item.) They also make other sweets and things like 粽 (Chinese tamales), which is next on my list to try!“

“First time going to Katz? Avoid Saturday and Sunday as wait times can be more than an hour and finding a table once inside will be very difficult. Go during the weekday for faster service.Do not let the busy environment rush you with your order. The meat cutters are there to help you get exactly what you want and will even provide you with a sample.It’s one of the greatest restaurants in the world. Enjoy!“

“Stopped by for lunch, space is clean and staff are super friendly! Been wanting to try their chopped cheese and it was an amazing combination of flavors and so good that I brought some friends here later the same night. Would stop by again if in the neighborhood to try their other sandwiches!“

“I stand by my local delis! Working on 5th Ave midtown there are not many bodega type deli options close by, only overpriced tourist type joints. This place has saved the day. Stocked with just about every drink you could want, I’ve reached the peak of deli ordering where I no longer have to say my order, just call and they recognize my voice and know my order. Service like this is a gem in a land that can feel easy to be lost in. Quality breakfast sandwiches, drink and sand which usually around $10 which is great for midtown. Open till 12 most days with the grill not closing. Literally everything I can ask for, owner and his brother are very nice people and always behind the grill willing to put in the work when busy. Lots of respect.“

“We are from the west coast and fell in love with this place. Saw lots of local types here which is always a good sign!Great food, good portions and more than fair prices. I had a Ruben (delicious!) and my wife had a BLT. Perfect fries!Sadly we only discovered it on our final day here…guess we will have to come back.Vegetarian options: Wouldn’t say large selection but a decent one considering all salad and wrap options.“

“It was our place for all the days we visited New York, the attention received was excellent, the food very good and enough quantities that you would not be hungry until noon.The owner was a splendid person and Miguel, the person who attended to us at all times, was a great person.Thank you both for the courteous and close treatment you had with us, especially with our daughter.“

“This is a hidden gym for authentic delicoius Korean food. Me and a friend went after watching a movie. Two orders of Bi-bim-baps took 20 minutes as she made them from scratch. She then gave us some free radish kimchi as a side. Very nice woman, and great food that is reasonably priced. I would gladly go again.“

“Amazing little spot that has excellent service, bagels and coffee! Coming from Canada it’s a joy to pop into places like this and still get amazing food. Going back for a bigger sandwich soon!Update: sausage egg and cheese is amazing. Better than the last one I had somewhere else!“

“I just ate at the Regina's Grocery at 300 E 88th St. Visually my friends and I were transported into a jewel of a wonderful store in Italy. There were family pictures all around and the friendliest of people waiting on us. The sandwiches we ordered were over the top fabulous. The provolone cheese was perfectly sharp, the meat was all perfectly cut and among the best I have had on an Italian sandwich anywhere as was the bread. Since we all were taking the sandwiches home, they put the contents in a container so the bread wouldn't get soggy. What a great experience in all categories of food, service and ambience.“

“I enjoy this place so much and their wide variety of food and drinks that even if I have to go out of my way to get there I will quality of food a solid 10 quality of service a solid 10 quality of people a solid 10 and what else would I say I am always happy to go in for a few minutes and enjoy the conversation of the staff and the quality of their work“

“First dinning experience in NYC after a long day of travel. Ordering online was super easy. When I picked up my order the team that was working the late shift were so kind and great to work with even thought it was really busy.Garlic knots are on point. Huge chucks of garlic, fresh from the oven. Your taste buds will thank you...but probably not your date.“

“Stopped in to pick up lunch on a Thursday and was not disappointed. The sandwiches are expensive but big enough for two to share, and the pastrami was warm, tender, and juicy. There’s also a full seating area inside if you want to dine in. The place has an old-school deli/diner vibe. We got 10% off our bill by paying cash! I’ll be coming back to try their black & white cookies.“

“I work in the area & have been sleeping on this place for years because I assumed it would be overpriced but boy was I wrong! Probably the most affordable deli in the area - I have been getting my lunch here now - usually a BLT, chips & chocolate & its less than $10 & very satisfying for the day. Staff are very profession & move exceptionally fast - even at 1pm on a weekday I'm in there for less than 10 minutes total. My partner has gotten the fresh juice (ginger + orange) there & thoroughly enjoyed it as well - a standard medium-large cup was about $7 I believe not bad for the area for sure.Dietary restrictions: All bacon is turkey bacon“

“This is the best salad made on earth. I know you don't believe me but the only way to prove it is for you to go and try it on your own. I dare you. Take care and let me know how much you love it. Just ask any one of their great staff for it. You won't regret it.“

“This place has become my new go-to deli while I’m working in the city. They have a great team behind the counters and grills who make delicious food and a pleasant experience for their patrons. I also like that they have a few tables for you to sit down and eat there.“

“There was a lot going on here. Took a moment to get my bearings. One side was hot foods and made to order salads, the other side of the store was assorted sandwiches/burgers and coffee/teas. There was a lot of people working efficiently. Vibe was casual. There were some seats at the back of the store. Food and drinks were decent for a quick bite on the way somewhere.“

“Wow what can I say this place gives you 5 stars service, the quality of food is great and the staffs are friendly. I recently grabbed classic Philly cheesesteak and they made it so well, loaded with meat, and it just hit the spot. This place will be our go-to place in the neighborhood for sure. Great value, five-stars service!“

“Small deli around the corner from the New York Stock Exchange. We had different plans for lunch, but this place smelled so good that we decided to stop. We had some grilled cheeses, a pastrami with Swiss, smoothies, and an Oriental chicken salad. Everyone was happy with their meal and the servings were pretty large. Everyone behind the counter was super nice. There's a small amount of seating - one table with eight seats and nine or ten counter seats. They seemed to be doing a lot of catering/takeout orders as well.“

“Best store around 72nd street. Omar is literally the nicest best person ever. He makes sure to always say Goodmorning and hi when me or my coworkers walk inside and is always smiling. Omar makes my days better when I walk inside the store!!!“

“We ate there regularly during our stay in NY.The service is very friendly and the food is fresh and delicious!We had the best breakfast rolls (special offer) of our lives there: At Mc D it would be the Egg Mc Muffin with bacon.The seating area upstairs was ok, but not very inviting. More is possible here!“

“Love having this hidden gem down the street, it’s very convenient and one of the best values in the area (if not the city). Service could be friendlier sometimes but it feels very authentic and old school in a good way. Coffee is great and I’ve never been disappointed in any of their sandwiches.“

“Best deli in NYC that I've been to, including when I grew up on the UES in the 1970s and 1980s. I was at the Marshall Chess Club for a tournament and darted out to get a tuna salad sandwich, which was high-quality, very well-prepared, and reasonably priced (for 2023) at $8.50. Natives might have their secrets, but any visitor to the area should make this their lunch stop, which I'm very glad I did yesterday. The mayo was a bit rich but obviously what they wanted me to have and it was high-quality as well.“

“I grew up here and would always go to this store but then I moved about 10 years ago and I come back to it being under new management (moes). I was skeptical at first because I don’t like change but they’re actually really nice, clean and the food is great. I don’t like change but man this store looks and is so much better than what is was 10 years when I was living here. Glad to know when I come back to visit I got a good bodega to come to.“

“I bought a quarter pounds of the wild Scottish smoked salmon at Sable’s — and it was almost certainly the greatest salmon I’ve ever had in my life. If one wishes to splurge on salmon with an —admittedly high— price tag ($62 per pound, IIRC), the stock at Sable’s absolutely deserves it. The staff were very kind and attentive and offered a large tasting slice as well.“

“Accidentally stumbled upon this hidden gem during our NYC exploration, and it turned out to be a true delicatessen delight!The pastrami sandwich and chicken sandwich we ordered were not only surprisingly amazing but also generously portioned.Despite the absence of indoor seating, the flavors and quality of the food more than compensated for it. A must-try for anyone seeking outstanding deli fare in the city!“

“This is a great quick bite. The food is hot and delicious. Everything is made to order and tastes great. The service is quick and they like you to know what you want. As a tourist I didn't appreciate that but if I was a local I would know what I want and it wouldn't bother me. They have a place to sit and eat upstairs and it's nice. So definitely stop by eat and enjoy especially if you want a good quick bite. Also let me add I tried the cheesecake it wasn't my favorite but that's me. The fries are delicious and the next day I got the chicken parmigiana pasta and it was SOOOOOO GOOD!!“

“This place does a pretty great vegan chopped cheese and BEC (especially with the hashbrown side). Ultimate comfort food and the cook and guy working the register are always super nice. It's the only place I'd walk to for breakfast when hungover lol.“

“Sam's Deli has the best omelettes, classic NYC' chopt cheese, and sandwiches in the West Village. It is THE best take-out deli in my West Village neighborhood ... the go-to place from r everyone in our neighborhood... such nice people!“

“Stumbled upon this deli when we were visiting NY. I may have been a bit annoying not knowing the NY lingo but all in all was a great experience. Food was delicious and was just what I expected out of a NY deliKid-friendliness: My boys loved the burger & breakfast sandwiches!“

“Hands down best deli downtown Manhattan!!! Doesn't matter what anyone says this is the goto spot to get what ever your craving at any hour. I can never get enough. Phenomenal family owned business that I hope to see thriving for a very long time.“

“Great sandwich spot! All the ingredients are fresh and right in front of you so you know exactly what you are getting. Recently tried a burger and fries as well — also solid. The guys who work there are all super nice and friendly. It’s our go-to spot in the neighborhood for sandwiches.“

“I just heard that Mini Deli is possibly closing?!? Is this true?! This spot is such a GEM for our neighborhood, the best quality and pricing, great staff and Italian treats that are hard to find. I’ve never written a review but credit is needed and well deserved. I hope everyone can show up to support this important business and maybe someone can help them continue on.“

“There are many Deli's on this block, but many have "Not" made the "A" Grade with me. When I and my beautiful daughter come through these doors, there is always a warm smile and a thank you, for supporting my business. This "Gentleman" has awsome Customer Service Skills. Please keep up, the good work!" Through A Writer's Eyes And Ears.“

“Probably one of the best delis in the area.It’s fully family run business and they are extremely friendly. I’ve never had a negative experience experience. The food is always fresh and they have very reasonable prices for the city. I would recommend them to anyone.“

“Found this legit sandwich spot on google after searching reviews and it did not disappoint! This spot is a local favorite and serves delish pressed sandwiches. And the guy running it was so sweet and helpful! Make sure you have cash- it's cash only- and enjoy!“

“My experience at this store is nice the men are handsome and are so kind and welcoming and most of all the food is delicious yummy for your tummy. I get breakfast from them every morning before work the world need more stores like this one they got everything you need. check it out if you haven’t the food is to die for hope my review helped you out today stay blessed.“

“Love this place . They make the food the way you want it and not how some places say take it or leave it. The woman writes my order down and i go outside to sit in car to keep from getting a ticket. She alerts me when it is ready. I love it !!!“

“My goodness this place is really amazing! I love coming here anytime I'm fairly close by. The sandwiches here are completely mind blowing. The service is great, very friendly people. I like the older feel of the place too. I like the chips and pickle you get with the sandwich. Definitely coming back here tomorrow!“

“I had a group of 16 students. We were trying to find them a place for breakfast that was affordable. I thought I had found a good option the first few days but we found bread and honey on our last morning. The kids loved it. It was much more affordable than similar places. One kid got a burger, one had an oatmeal bowl, noodles, eggs and sausage, muffins. I had an almond croissant and a large latte for less than 9 bucks and it was the best cup of coffee I had the whole week. If you have a group and are looking for good options for breakfast or lunch this is the place. The service was fast and friendly. Thanks for making my first student lead tour to NY easier.“

“Our neighborhood bodega. They have everything and even a lot of snacks that I’ve never seen before. Always something you want and maybe some things you didn’t know you wanted lol. They are open in the am and until late. Sunny’s deli gets all the clout but they aren’t friendly and always mess up my order. These guys are really great and always give the best service and fresh food. The coffee is strong and the fresh juices are so good.“

“ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!??? One of the best sandwiches I've ever had! The bread to meat ratio is perfect. All the other toppings were super fresh. The roll was soft and chewy. So many other food options too. The guys working behind the counter are the cherry on top! Best corner deli in NYC hands down.“

“Love this place! My daily spot for lunch at the office. Good prices, wonderful and friendly staff that takes the time to get to know you. I come here as much for the food as I do for the people! Highly recommend for regulars and passers-by.“

“Recommendations: (1) bacon, egg, & cheese on sesame bagel; (2) chicken over rice, with onion, lettuce, tomato, & white sauce. They also have a huge selection of beer, snacks, and tons of other incredible dishes. Plus everyone that works here is so incredibly nice. I go nearly every day.“

“Great deli. Food is good and affordable. They have anything you need including healthy options. The staff is welcoming and work hard. The only thing is the space. So much foot traffic from school kids to workers in the area, you may have to wait a bit. But worth the wait once you’ve tried the food.“