Last Updated: 3 days ago
Phone: (212) 254-2246
Address: 205 EAST HOUSTON STREET 10002
An iconic NYC Jewish deli, legendary for its massive, juicy pastrami on rye sandwiches and classic comfort food.
Hannah Albertine reviews Katz's Deli, an iconic Jewish establishment on the Lower East Side, praising its enduring quality and classic dishes like the pastrami on rye and matzoh ball soup.
Katz's Delicatessen is a legendary, old-school Jewish establishment on the Lower East Side, renowned for its incredibly delicious and massive pastrami on rye sandwiches. The restaurant, a true New York institution, offers a bustling and efficient, albeit chaotic, experience that has remained consistent for over 130 years. While it's a popular tourist destination, the quality of its classic dishes, including matzoh ball soup and hand-sliced pastrami, makes it a worthwhile visit.
Katz's Delicatessen is famous for its Jewish deli fare, with the pastrami on rye sandwich being a standout, consistently praised for its size, juiciness, and flavor. Other popular items include matzoh ball soup, hot dogs, and pickles. While most reviews are positive, some mention high prices and a chaotic atmosphere, and a few suggest that the quality can be inconsistent or that other delis offer better value.
"The pastrami on rye sandwich is consistently hailed as the must-try item, often described as massive, juicy, and delicious. Other recommendations include the hot dogs, matzoh ball soup, and pickles. Trying the Dr. Brown's sodas is also suggested."
Customers overwhelmingly praise Katz's for its iconic status and high-quality, generously portioned pastrami sandwiches, though some find it expensive and chaotic.
Important Note
Some visitors find Katz's to be expensive, chaotic, and overhyped, with occasional complaints about inconsistent quality or portion sizes. It's also noted that the restaurant is not strictly kosher, as it serves dairy.
"The commenter recommended pastrami from Katz as a food item to take home from NYC."
Positive"The author briefly mentioned visiting Katz and described their experience as 'meh'."
Neutral"The user happily noted that Katz's Deli was included in the list of classic NYC establishments."
Positive"This commenter recommends Katz's Deli as a well-known establishment for visitors to experience, particularly for its classic deli fare."
Positive"This commenter humorously advised bringing a bib if one were to wear a tuxedo to Katz's Delicatessen."
Neutral"The original poster agreed with the suggestion of Katz's Delicatessen as a place to consider wearing a tuxedo."
Positive"This commenter suggested Katz's Delicatessen as an option for wearing a tuxedo, possibly for a contrastingly casual experience."
Neutral"This user notes that a sandwich from Katz's can cost over $30, implying that the price of Salt Hank's sandwich is not out of line with other high-priced NYC deli options."
Neutral"This comment uses Katz's as a benchmark, noting that they have a more established reputation and a wider menu compared to Salt Hanks. It implies Katz's is a more legitimate establishment despite also experiencing high demand."
Neutral"The commenter inquired if Dr Brown's Cel-ray soda is celery-flavored and confirmed that Katz likely sells it, calling it delicious."
Positive"In response to a comment about Katz Deli's pastrami, this user cryptically states 'It did until it didnt.'"
Neutral"This user suggests OP should go to Gray's or something similar, implying that Katz's hot dogs might be an alternative but focusing recommendations elsewhere."
Neutral"This user claims Frankel's in Williamsburg has much better pastrami than Katz Deli, also stating their hot dogs and pickles are superior."
Positive"The user states that Katz Deli's pastrami is not the best, and admits to being pained by this conclusion."
Negative"The commenter suggested trying Dr Brown's Cel-ray soda, a classic New York soda, which can likely be found at Jewish delis or kosher supermarkets."
Neutral"This user states Katz Deli does not have the best pastrami."
Negative"The user asserts that Katz Deli does not have the best pastrami."
Negative"The author suggested Katz for a pastrami sandwich."
Positive"The author strongly recommended Katz's pastrami sandwich."
Positive"Katz's is described as the quintessential New York experience."
Positive