12 Utah Delis Locals Call Their Best-Kept Secret For Perfect Pastrami
Utah has a surprising claim to fame that many people outside the state don’t know about: incredible pastrami. While New York might get all the attention for deli meats, locals here know that some of the most mouthwatering pastrami sandwiches in America are hiding in Utah’s unassuming delis.
I’m sharing the spots that residents swear by for that perfect combination of smoky, peppery, melt-in-your-mouth pastrami that keeps them coming back week after week.
1. Feldman’s Deli in Salt Lake City
Walking into this family-owned spot feels like stepping back in time to an authentic New York delicatessen. Feldman’s has been perfecting their pastrami recipe for decades, and you can taste the dedication in every bite.
The meat is hand-rubbed with spices and slow-smoked until it reaches that ideal tender texture. Locals rave about the generous portions that overflow from fresh rye bread.
2. The Deli at Trolley Square
Tucked inside the historic Trolley Square, this hidden gem serves up pastrami that surprises even the most skeptical visitors. The counter staff pile the meat so high you might need two hands to hold your sandwich.
What makes their version special is the perfect balance of smoke and pepper crust. Regulars know to arrive early because they often sell out by mid-afternoon.
3. Hires Big H Drive-In
You might expect typical fast food here, but Hires has been shocking customers since 1959 with their legendary pastrami burgers. They layer thick slices of house-made pastrami over a juicy beef patty, creating something truly unique.
The combination sounds wild, but one bite will make you a believer. Many locals consider this comfort food at its finest and won’t go anywhere else.
4. Moochie’s Meatballs and More
Don’t let the quirky name fool you because Moochie’s takes their pastrami seriously. Their signature sandwich comes loaded with tender meat, melted cheese, and grilled onions that caramelize to perfection.
The owner sources high-quality brisket and prepares everything from scratch daily. People drive from neighboring cities just to grab one of these messy, delicious creations that require plenty of napkins.
5. Even Stevens Sandwiches
This socially conscious sandwich shop proves that doing good and tasting great go hand in hand. For every sandwich sold, they donate one to someone in need, which makes their amazing pastrami taste even better.
They cure and smoke their pastrami in-house using traditional methods with a modern twist. The result is incredibly flavorful meat that pairs beautifully with their fresh-baked bread.
6. Siegfried’s Delicatessen
Bringing a European flair to Utah pastrami, Siegfried’s adds their own special touch to this American classic. Their German heritage influences the spice blend, creating a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.
The pastrami here is sliced thick rather than paper-thin, giving you substantial bites with amazing texture. Pair it with their homemade mustard for an experience that keeps customers returning weekly.
7. Caputo’s Market and Deli
Known primarily for Italian imports, Caputo’s surprised everyone when they started making exceptional pastrami. They apply the same attention to quality and detail that makes their other products outstanding.
The meat gets brined for days before being coated in crushed peppercorns and coriander. Their version has a more refined taste that appeals to adventurous eaters looking for something beyond traditional deli fare.
8. Gourmandise The Bakery
A French bakery making amazing pastrami might sound unusual, but Gourmandise proves that great bread makes all the difference. Their house-baked baguettes and rolls provide the perfect vehicle for tender, flavorful pastrami.
They source their meat from local suppliers who follow strict quality standards. The European approach to this American classic creates something wonderfully different that food lovers absolutely adore.
9. Pretty Bird Chicken
Famous for hot chicken, Pretty Bird shocked the local food scene by introducing a pastrami creation nobody saw coming. They combine their crispy fried chicken with smoky pastrami, creating an indulgent mashup that shouldn’t work but absolutely does.
The contrasting textures and flavors somehow complement each other perfectly. This isn’t traditional, but adventurous eaters call it genius and keep this unexpected combination flying off the menu.
10. Crown Burgers
This Utah chain has been a local institution since 1978, and their pastrami burger is practically a religious experience for residents. They pile generous amounts of thinly sliced pastrami onto a flame-grilled burger with special sauce.
The combination has inspired countless imitators, but locals insist the original can’t be beaten. Late-night crowds pack the place because nothing satisfies quite like this Utah-born creation.
11. Apollo Burger
Greek immigrants brought their culinary skills to Utah and created something uniquely local at Apollo Burger. Their pastrami burger combines Mediterranean flavors with American comfort food in a way that only makes sense once you taste it.
They grill their pastrami to order, getting those crispy edges that add texture to every bite. Combining it with their signature fry sauce creates magic that keeps generations coming back.
12. The Dodo Restaurant
Operating since 1965, The Dodo has been serving exceptional pastrami to Provo residents for generations. Their old-school approach means hand-cutting meat fresh daily and never taking shortcuts with quality.
The nostalgic atmosphere makes eating here feel like visiting your grandparents’ favorite spot. Students and families alike consider this place essential, and the consistent quality explains why it’s survived decades while others disappeared.
