TLDR
Legendary Bronx kosher deli serving up exceptionally juicy, thin-cut pastrami and classic comfort food that's worth the trip.
Will Hartman reviews Liebman's Kosher Deli, a Riverdale spot praised for its thinly sliced pastrami on rye and old-school diner vibe, complete with bouncy booths and classic tunes.
Details
Located in Riverdale, this kosher institution is widely celebrated as one of the best Jewish delis in New York City [2]. It specializes in classic comfort food, with many diners considering their pastrami to be on par with the most famous names in the city [7]. Whether visiting for a sit-down lunch or ordering shipping for high-quality meats, the experience is consistently rated as outstanding [15], [16].
Food Overview
This spot offers a traditional kosher menu featuring standout thin-sliced hot pastrami, which is noted for being rich and fatty [1], [7]. Other recommended items include the comforting matzo ball soup and brisket, while latkes are described as dense but delicious [1], [12]. Some diners suggest the reuben for a more complex profile, though purists often stick to the classic pastrami on rye [1].
The hot pastrami sandwich is highly regarded and frequently cited as a must-order [6], [16]. Other popular favorites include the corned beef, brisket hot open on a latke, and tongue sandwiches [12], [21].
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many patrons identifying it as a top-tier destination for authentic deli fare [2], [17]. Diners frequently praise the generous portions and high value relative to other city staples [8], [9].
Most Mentioned Dishes
- 01pastrami13 mentions
- 02pastrami sandwich4 mentions
- 03latkes3 mentions
- 04matzo ball soup3 mentions
- 05brisket3 mentions
- 06the liebman’s special2 mentions
Caveats
The deli's location in the Bronx is sometimes noted as out-of-the-way for those based in Manhattan [7]. Pricing for kosher meats is reflective of quality, and some diners have noted specific costs like $25 for a regular pastrami sandwich [10], [11].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About LIEBMAN'S DELI
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: This Might Be One Of The Best Pastrami Sandwiches
"The user enjoyed the corned beef, pastrami, fries, and babka, describing it as a good experience."
PositiveFrom post: This Might Be One Of The Best Pastrami Sandwiches
"Referenced as a point of comparison for high-quality pastrami."
PositiveFrom post: This Might Be One Of The Best Pastrami Sandwiches
"The user was very impressed with their pastrami and highly recommends their tongue sandwiches."
PositiveFrom post: This Might Be One Of The Best Pastrami Sandwiches
"The user expressed disappointment in their experience compared to Pastrami Queen."
NegativeFrom post: This Might Be One Of The Best Pastrami Sandwiches
"A user recommends visiting this deli in the Bronx as an alternative."
Positive