13 Classic New York Delis That Never Go Out Of Style

New York City moves at a dizzying pace, constantly tearing down the old to make way for the new. But amidst the glittering skyscrapers, the ever-evolving culinary trends, and the relentless march of progress, certain bastions of tradition endure.

We’re talking about the old-school delis – the ones that have resisted fads, stayed true to their roots, and still serve up the pastrami, corned beef, and smiles that define a bygone era.

1. Katz’s Delicatessen

Since 1888, this Lower East Side institution has been serving up hand-carved pastrami that makes food lovers weak at the knees. The massive sandwiches come with a side of history, just look at the celebrity photos lining the walls.

The ordering system might seem chaotic to newcomers (don’t lose your ticket!), but that’s part of the charm. Grab a seat at a communal table, order the legendary pastrami on rye, and experience a true New York moment.

2. 2nd Ave Deli

Originally on Second Avenue (now on 33rd Street and in the Upper East Side), this kosher deli survived the death of its beloved founder and a location change to remain a New York treasure. Their matzoh ball soup could cure anything that ails you.

Every sandwich comes with complimentary pickles and health salad. A tangy cabbage slaw that somehow makes you feel virtuous while devouring a mountain of meat. The pastrami and corned beef are cured in-house, following recipes unchanged for decades.

3. Barney Greengrass

Stepping into Barney Greengrass feels like time travel to 1908 when it first opened. The worn Formica tables and no-nonsense waiters are part of the experience at this appetizing shop specializing in smoked fish.

The sturgeon, silky, buttery, and perfect on a bagel with cream cheese, earned this place its royal nickname. Sunday mornings bring crowds of regulars who’ve been coming for generations, patiently waiting for tables while eyeing the display case filled with whitefish, lox, and herring.

4. Liebman’s Kosher Delicatessen

Liebman’s stands as one of the last remaining Jewish delis in the Bronx, a borough that once housed hundreds. Family-owned since the beginning, this Riverdale gem maintains the traditions that make New York delis special.

The hot dogs snap when you bite them, the knishes are golden-brown perfection, and the corned beef is sliced just right-not too thin, not too thick. Regulars swear by the stuffed derma (kishka), a traditional dish becoming increasingly rare even in authentic delis.

5. Pastrami Queen

Don’t let the modest storefront fool you-Pastrami Queen serves some of the city’s most tender, flavorful pastrami. Originally from Queens (hence the name), this deli found a loyal following after relocating to Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

The pastrami is steamed until it practically melts in your mouth, then hand-sliced to order. Their hot dogs have the perfect snap, and the chicken soup rivals any Jewish grandmother’s recipe. The small space fills quickly during lunch, but the wait is worthwhile.

6. Mill Basin Deli

Surrounded by residential streets in deep Brooklyn, Mill Basin Deli might be the city’s most unexpected art gallery. The walls feature original works by Picasso and Chagall, courtesy of the art-collecting owner.

The food matches the impressive décor. Corned beef and pastrami are cured in-house, while the stuffed cabbage and kasha varnishkes transport diners straight to Old World Eastern Europe. The triple-decker sandwiches named after famous artists provide enough food for two meals.

7. Sarge’s Delicatessen

When midnight cravings for matzo ball soup strike, Sarge’s has been the answer since 1964. Founded by a former police sergeant (hence the name), this Murray Hill institution operates 24/7, making it a favorite of night owls and early birds alike.

Even after a devastating fire in 2012, Sarge’s returned with the same recipes and round-the-clock service. Their Monster sandwich-with corned beef, pastrami, roast beef, turkey, salami, and more-lives up to its name. Breakfast options like smoked fish platters and blintzes satisfy at any hour.

8. Ben’s Best Kosher Deli

After closing in 2018 after 73 years in business, Ben’s Best made a triumphant return in 2023 under new ownership committed to preserving its legacy. The revived Rego Park institution maintains the recipes that made it a Queens landmark.

The pastrami and corned beef are still cured and smoked in-house. Stuffed cabbage remains a standout, with a sweet-and-sour sauce that regulars dream about. The new owners added modern touches like online ordering, but the soul of this beloved deli remains gloriously unchanged.

9. Frankel’s Delicatessen

Brothers Zach and Alex Frankel opened this Greenpoint gem in 2016, proving that traditional Jewish deli fare can thrive in hipster Brooklyn. Despite its relative youth, Frankel’s earned immediate respect by honoring classic techniques while appealing to modern tastes.

The pastrami is house-smoked and hand-cut. The matzo ball soup follows their grandmother’s recipe. Even the aesthetic pays homage to old-school delis while feeling fresh. Their pastrami, egg and cheese on challah bread represents the perfect marriage of tradition and innovation.

10. Gottlieb’s Restaurant

For over 60 years, Gottlieb’s has served the Hasidic community of South Williamsburg with strictly kosher deli classics. This no-frills establishment offers a window into traditional Jewish cuisine rarely experienced by outsiders.

The cholent (slow-cooked Sabbath stew) draws people from across the city on Thursdays and Fridays. Potato kugel emerges from the oven with crispy edges and a creamy center. Everything follows kosher laws meticulously, making Gottlieb’s not just a restaurant but a cultural institution preserving centuries-old culinary traditions.

11. David’s Brisket House

David’s Brisket House tells a uniquely New York story – deli now owned by Yemeni Muslims who maintain the original recipes with religious respect. This Bedford-Stuyvesant institution serves halal versions of Jewish classics that rival any traditional deli.

The brisket sandwich remains the signature item. Pastrami and corned beef compete for attention, while the prices stay remarkably affordable compared to Manhattan competitors. The cultural fusion represents the beautiful evolution of New York’s food traditions across communities.

12. Loeser’s Kosher Deli

Fredy Loeser opened his kosher deli in the Kingsbridge neighborhood of the Bronx at just 17 years old. Six decades later, he’s still behind the counter, making sandwiches exactly as he did on day one.

The tiny storefront has survived neighborhood changes, economic downturns, and the general decline of Jewish delis. Hot dogs get a special treatment here. The pastrami sandwich remains a masterclass in simplicity: hand-cut meat on fresh rye with nothing to hide behind.

13. PJ Bernstein

PJ Bernstein has fed everyone from regular neighborhood folks to mayors and movie stars from its comfortable Upper East Side corner. The rotating cake display near the entrance tempts even the most determined dieters.

The matzoh ball soup comes with massive, fluffy matzoh balls that somehow remain light despite their size. Regulars swear by the Romanian skirt steak and the overstuffed Reuben sandwich. The staff treat newcomers like family and remember regulars’ orders before they sit down.