Authentic Jewish deli classics & comfort food; a go-to for matzoh ball soup & pastrami.
A beloved Jewish deli, this establishment has been a long-standing favorite for its authentic flavors and classic dishes. Customers rave about the generous portions and traditional recipes that evoke a sense of nostalgia. It's a go-to spot for comfort food, particularly during times of illness or when craving a taste of home.
This restaurant specializes in classic Jewish deli fare, with a strong emphasis on its highly recommended matzoh ball soup and pastrami. Other praised items include brisket, tongue sandwiches, and 'chicken in the pot.' While generally well-regarded, some find the pastrami to be expensive and note that its kosher status affects menu options like pastrami Reubens.
"Customers highly recommend the matzoh ball soup, pastrami, brisket, tongue sandwiches, and 'chicken in the pot.' The pastrami is frequently cited as a standout, with some even considering it their favorite in the city."
Customers consistently praise the authentic Jewish deli experience, with particular highlights being the comforting matzoh ball soup and generous portions of pastrami. The deli is often recommended as a superior alternative to other well-known establishments.
Important Note
While highly praised for its traditional Jewish deli offerings, some users note that the pastrami can be expensive. Due to its strictly kosher status, certain popular deli combinations like a pastrami Reuben with Swiss cheese are not available.
"A follow-up comment confirms that the food at Second Avenue Deli is "good stuff"."
Positive"This user loves Second Avenue Deli and considers it possibly their favorite pastrami on rye in the city."
Positive"This comment recommends Second Ave Deli specifically for its matzo ball soup (MBS)."
Positive"This comment specifically recommends Second Ave Deli for its matzo ball soup."
Positive"Katz's is considered the gold standard for pastrami, especially enjoyed in off-hours with unique combinations like pastrami in a knish. 2nd Ave Deli serves as a backup when Katz's lines are long."
Positive"Katz's hand cuts their meat, 2nd Ave is machine sliced."
Neutral"2nd Ave Deli is considered only 'meh' but is better for those who keep kosher."
Neutral"The commenter ranks Katz's pastrami highest, followed by Sarge's, and then 2nd Avenue Deli, but considers all three worth visiting."
Neutral"2nd Ave Deli is outstanding and has significantly shorter wait times compared to Katz's."
Positive"The commenter suggests flipping the plan to have dinner at Katz's and lunch at 2nd Ave Deli."
Neutral"If you want anything other than pastrami or a hot dog, 2nd Ave Deli is significantly better. Liebman's is another option preferred by the commenter."
Positive"Sarge's is preferred over Katz's for its tender and tasty pastrami, while 2nd Ave Deli offers a cleaner taste."
Neutral"A comment mentions a situation where someone asked for bacon at 2nd Ave Deli, implying a potentially unusual or sensitive response from the staff."
Neutral"Katz's pastrami is the best, with the key difference being 2nd Ave Deli's kosher status, which excludes items like pastrami reubens."
Positive"Katz's pastrami is superior, but the commenter now prefers the brisket sandwich at 2nd Ave Deli."
Positive"Desserts at 2nd Ave Deli are made with non-dairy ingredients like margarine due to its kosher status."
Neutral"Due to 2nd Ave Deli's kosher status, traditional items like a Rueben might not be available. The commenter is interested in trying the varnishkes."
Neutral"The bar upstairs from 2nd Ave Deli, called 'Essen', offers a fun and different experience."
Positive"The commenter used to frequent 2nd Ave Deli on 2nd Ave for tongue and pastrami. Now, they get pastrami to go from Katz's and tongue with matzoh ball soup to go from 2nd Ave Deli."
Neutral"The commenter believes Sarge's is much better than 2nd Ave Deli."
Negative
