According to Time Out’s newly updated ranking of the best delis in New York City, Katz’s Delicatessen has officially claimed the No. 1 spot. Located on Houston Street since 1888, the legendary Lower East Side establishment beat out beloved institutions including 2nd Ave Deli, Barney Greengrass, Sarge’s Delicatessen, and Pastrami Queen.
Ranking NYC’s Best Delis on the Lower East Side
Katz’s has been serving towering hand-carved pastrami and corned beef sandwiches for well over a century. Julien Levy wrote of the establishment that the sandwiches are huge, delicious, and that the place serves genuinely excellent food in an unreplicable environment. Visitors ordering their first meal are recommended to try the pastrami or corned beef on rye with mustard, grab a pickle, and wash it down with a Cel-Ray or cream soda.
Did You Know? Katz’s Delicatessen has been serving towering hand-carved pastrami and corned beef sandwiches on Houston Street since 1888.
Movie History and Pop Culture at Katz’s
Beyond its culinary reputation, the deli remains famous for its appearance in the 1989 romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally… Meg Ryan’s unforgettable diner scene cemented the location’s place in movie history. Today, visitors can still sit beneath the sign marking the exact table where the scene was filmed, which makes it one of the most photographed lunch spots in New York City.
How the Rest of the Top Five Ranked
The rest of the top five showcases other prominent old-school Jewish delis across New York City. 2nd Ave Deli secured the second spot for its classic pastrami and old-New York atmosphere. Barney Greengrass placed behind it, earning praise for more than a century of expertly sliced smoked fish.
Sarge’s Delicatessen landed in fourth place due to its house-cured pastrami. Rounding out the top five, the Lexington Avenue institution Pastrami Queen took fifth place. Customers planning a visit to Katz’s or any of these top-ranking spots should be prepared to wait in line.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the No. 1 deli in New York City according to the ranking?
According to Time Out’s newly updated ranking, Katz’s Delicatessen has officially claimed the No. 1 spot.
When was Katz’s Delicatessen founded?
Katz’s has been serving sandwiches on Houston Street since 1888.
Which famous movie scene was filmed at Katz’s?
The 1989 romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally… featured Meg Ryan’s famous diner scene at the deli.
What are your favorite items to order when visiting a classic New York deli?
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