New York City’s deli scene continues to thrive, with two establishments—one in Astoria and another in the West Village—drawing attention for their substantial sandwiches and longstanding traditions. Both locations offer a classic Italian deli experience, but cater to different dining styles.
A Legacy of Sandwiches
A deli in Astoria has been serving customers since 1940, establishing a reputation for generously-sized, foot-long sandwiches. These sandwiches feature a variety of cold cuts and deli meats, with options for additions like sweet peppers, hot peppers, provolone, American cheese, oil, vinegar, lettuce, and tomato. The establishment is particularly known for “The Bomb,” a towering sandwich combining the ingredients of two menu items.
In the West Village, the Court Street Grocers team has taken over a longstanding delicatessen, focusing on sandwiches as a key offering. S&P offers options like tuna melts, turkey clubs, and the “Mel Brooks,” a combination of roast turkey and corned beef with mustard, slaw, and Russian dressing. Breakfast sandwiches featuring pastrami and lox are also available, alongside a dairy section and sides.
Different Dining Experiences
The Astoria deli offers a grab-and-go experience, as there is no seating available. Customers are encouraged to bring cash and potentially a friend or two to share the large portions. S&P, on the other hand, provides a more traditional deli experience, with customers waiting in line and being seated to enjoy their meals.
Both locations offer a range of options, from pre-designed sandwiches to customizable creations. S&P also provides fountain sodas, including egg creams, to complete the retro experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has the Astoria deli been open?
The deli in Astoria has been open since 1940.
What is “The Bomb” sandwich?
“The Bomb” is a sandwich at the Astoria deli that combines the ingredients of two sandwiches on the menu, making it twice as tall as a standard sandwich and containing a large quantity of meat.
What other food options are available at S&P?
S&P offers breakfast sandwiches, a dairy section with options like melon and cottage cheese, and a variety of sides in addition to their sandwiches.
Will these delis continue to draw crowds, or will changing tastes impact their success? Only time will tell, but their current popularity suggests a strong foundation for continued operation.
