Pastrami sandwiches are one of New York’s signature dishes (up there with pizza, bagels, and hot dogs), and it all started in 1887 when Lithuanian immigrant Sussman Volk served the first pastrami sandwich at his Delancey Street deli. Over the next 130 years, Manhattan’s classic cured meats on rye bread have only grown in popularity over the years.
Manhattan has Katz’s, sure. But there’s more to the pastrami scene than just one legendary deli. Here’s where to find the best pastrami sandwiches in Manhattan.
- Katz’s Delicatessen (205 E Houston St, New York): You know the name, but do you know why it’s so iconic? Katz is a New York City mainstay that’s stayed put in an ever-changing city. It’s a “foodie” landmark, just like Peter Luger’s, and a pop culture icon thanks to *When Harry Met Sally*. But hype aside, it does serve the best pastrami in New York—maybe the world. Just be prepared to wait in line.
- 2nd Ave Deli (162 E 33rd St, New York): With pastrami so tender it practically melts in your mouth and a buttery flavor that leans less on pepper, 2nd Avenue Deli is a worthy rival to Katz’s. And lucky for hungry Midtown locals, 2nd Ave Deli has two venues serving pastrami sandwiches.
- Russ & Daughters (179 East Houston St, New York): This appetizing shop is synonymous with lox bagels and smoked fish, which they do exceptionally well, but their Pastrami Russ is also a standout. A caveat: it’s not traditional beef brisket pastrami, but salmon coated in a pastrami rub. So it’s a perfect choice for pescatarians who feel left out of New York’s meat-heavy delicacies. The original shop sits on the Lower East Side, but you can also check out their newer location in Hudson Yards.
- Sarge’s Deli (548 3rd Ave, New York): If you think sandwiches should fit neatly into one’s mouth, keep walking. Sarge’s Deli is home to Manhattan’s largest, most overstuffed pastrami sandwich. Their corned beef and pastrami are cured in-house, sliced thin, and stacked so high it’s well worth the cost. Located in Murray Hill, Sarge’s Deli holds meat lovers over before the steakhouse opens at night.
- Pastrami Queen (1125 Lexington Ave, New York): Ruling over Upper Manhattan with locations on both the Upper East and Upper West Side, Pastrami Queen serves one thing and one thing only: Pastrami. Their pastrami is so tender that you barely even have to chew. Swing by and fuel up before a day at Central Park or the Met Museum.
You’ll be spoiled for choice living in Manhattan – whether it’s pastrami sandwiches or anything else you could want. If you’re moving to Manhattan, within it, or moving away, you’ll need relocation experts who know how to navigate the city’s busy streets. Our reliable team of moving professionals is here to help you settle into your new home. From brownstones to highrises, Metropolis Moving’s got your back.
