Last Updated: 15 days ago
Phone: (212) 254-2246
Address: 205 EAST HOUSTON STREET 10002
Iconic Jewish deli known for massive pastrami sandwiches. A true NYC staple worth the wait, even with its bustling, legendary atmosphere.
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 an iconic Jewish deli on the Lower East Side, celebrated for its legendary pastrami on rye sandwiches and other classic comfort foods. Despite its enduring popularity and status as a must-visit NYC institution, be prepared for long lines, though table service or off-peak hours can offer a more relaxed experience. The establishment is known for its generous portions, efficient service, and a unique ordering system that requires keeping track of a ticket.
Katz's Delicatessen is renowned for its Jewish deli fare, with the pastrami on rye sandwich being the undisputed star, lauded for its generous portion of tender, flavorful meat. Other highly recommended items include the matzo ball soup, frankfurters, and house-made pickles. While some find the pastrami exceptionally good, a few reviews mention inconsistencies or a preference for other delis, and brisket is noted by some as less impressive than the pastrami. The deli is generally considered a must-visit for its classic offerings.
"The pastrami sandwich, particularly on rye with mustard, is overwhelmingly recommended. Other popular choices include the Reuben sandwich, matzo ball soup, hot dogs, and pickles."
Customers overwhelmingly praise Katz's for its iconic status and delicious pastrami, though some find it overpriced or too crowded. The consensus is that it's a quintessential New York experience, with many recommending specific orders and tips for navigating the busy environment.
Important Note
The restaurant is often crowded with long lines, and can be quite expensive. Some patrons feel it is a tourist trap and has become overrated, or that the quality can be inconsistent.
"This user mentions Katz's pastrami as a nice treat that can be brought back, alongside other suggestions like pizza and smoked salmon."
Positive"This user recommends bringing Katz's pastrami, along with pickles and mustard, as a gift."
Positive"This user suggests that Katz's offers a kit that can be shipped, implying it's a convenient gift option."
Positive"This user suggested Katz's Delicatessen for pastrami as an option in the Lower East Side neighborhood."
Positive"Katz's is highlighted as a must-visit for tourists seeking a classic Jewish deli experience, though perhaps less chill than other options."
Positive"Katz's was recommended as a place to get pastrami, listed among other classic New York Jewish food institutions."
Positive"Katz's was listed as a highly recommended spot for its famous pastrami sandwich, alongside Russ and Daughters and Zabars."
Positive"Katz's Delicatessen is mentioned as a potential option for lox and bagels."
Neutral"Responding to the comment about Katz's history, this user speculated that social media has worsened the situation."
Neutral"This user disagreed with the previous comment, stating that Katz's Delicatessen was not always like that and lines were shorter before external factors like air rights sales and Google advertising began influencing its popularity."
Neutral"This user stated that Katz's Delicatessen has been 'like that' (trendy with long lines) for over 25 years."
Neutral"This user suggested Katz's Delicatessen, mentioning that while it's become trendy with long lines, it might still be an option if one can overlook its current state."
Neutral"Katz's is still considered worth it for the best pastrami in the city."
Positive"Suggests not visiting both Katz's Deli and Sarge's Deli in the same trip, as one pastrami sandwich from either would be sufficient."
Neutral"Katz's is worth it, offering expensive but huge sandwiches. Expect a long line but snappy service."
Positive"Katz's Deli was noted as a decent option for chicken noodle soup."
Positive"Katz Deli was listed as a recommendation."
Neutral"The original poster mentioned having tried Katz's and found it very good, comparable to Schwartz's in Montreal."
Positive"Katz is mentioned as a fast-casual option in Lower Manhattan, Tribeca, East Village, or LES areas that is suitable for takeout."
Neutral"Katz's Delicatessen was listed as one of the classic New York eateries with reasonable prices."
Positive
