TLDR
Iconic Jewish deli known for amazing matzo ball soup & pastrami. A solid, more affordable alternative to Katz's.
Details
A classic New York Jewish deli experience, 2nd Ave Deli is frequently recommended as a more affordable and convenient alternative to Katz's [1]. While some consider Katz's pastrami to be superior, 2nd Ave Deli shines with its highly praised matzo ball soup and other kosher offerings [2]. The atmosphere is noted as warm and inviting, making it a great destination for conversation and excellent food [3].
Food Overview
2nd Ave Deli is renowned for its Jewish deli fare, with standout dishes including highly recommended matzo ball soup and a well-regarded pastrami [1]. Customers also praise their corned beef and tongue sandwiches, though some find the pastrami portion sizes have decreased recently [2]. As a kosher establishment, certain items like pastrami reubens are unavailable, and desserts are made with non-dairy ingredients [3]. It's also noted for its fried knish as an alternative to traditional ones [4].
Highlights / Recommended
"Customers highly recommend the matzo ball soup and the corned beef. The pastrami is also frequently mentioned, though some note smaller portion sizes recently."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •pastrami(10)
- •matzo ball soup(3)
- •matzoh ball soup(3)
- •pastrami sandwich(2)
- •tongue(2)
- •pastrami reuben(2)
- •matzo ball kreplach soup(2)
Customer Sentiment
Customers overwhelmingly praise 2nd Ave Deli, particularly for its matzo ball soup and other kosher offerings, often deeming it a superior and more affordable alternative to Katz's [1], [2]. While some recent opinions note a concerning trend of smaller pastrami portions, the overall sentiment remains highly positive.
Caveats
Some recent opinions suggest that pastrami sandwich portions at 2nd Ave Deli have become significantly smaller compared to past experiences. Additionally, while kosher, their meat is not Glatt, which may be a consideration for Passover observance [1].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About 2ND AVE DELI
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Distinguishing Places As Local Is No Longer Useful
"The user states they enjoy going to 2nd Ave Deli more than Katz's, appreciating the atmosphere and clientele of predominantly older Jewish individuals with distinct accents."
PositiveFrom post: Best Deli Pickles In Nyc Preferably Near Manhattan
"The pickles at 2nd Avenue Deli are criticized for being too small, limp, and lacking crunch."
NegativeFrom post: Best Deli Pickles In Nyc Preferably Near Manhattan
"2nd Avenue Deli is mentioned as a place to get pickles."
PositiveFrom post: Recommendations For Sandwich Restaurants That Are
"This commenter recommended 2nd Avenue Deli as a sandwich option."
PositiveFrom post: Where Do You Order In From In The City When Youre
"The commenter recommends matzo ball and kreplach soup, as well as pastrami from 2nd Ave Deli."
PositiveFrom post: Where Do You Order In From In The City When Youre
"The commenter recommends matzo ball and kreplach soup, as well as pastrami from 2nd Ave Deli."
PositiveFrom post: Where Do You Order In From In The City When Youre
"Second Avenue Deli is mentioned as a comforting food destination."
PositiveFrom post: Where Do You Order In From In The City When Youre
"Second Avenue Deli is mentioned as a comforting food destination."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can A Guy Get A Pastrami For Some Athome
"2nd Ave Deli is mentioned as one of the famous pastrami places that will sell pastrami by the pound."
NeutralFrom post: Which Place Gives You Insane Sized Meals Doesnt
"This user recommended 2nd Avenue Deli for its large pastrami sandwiches and good matzo ball soup and baked goods, preferring it over Katz's."
PositiveFrom post: Can Someone Explain The Difference Between A
"2nd Ave Deli is cited as an example of a Jewish deli in NYC that serves matzoh ball soup."
PositiveFrom post: Can Someone Explain The Difference Between A
"2nd Ave Deli is mentioned as a place that does not stand up to some New Jersey delis, according to the commenter's opinion."
NegativeFrom post: Can Someone Explain The Difference Between A
"2nd Avenue Deli is listed as a Jewish deli in NYC."
PositiveFrom post: Recs For Last Restaurant To Visit Before I Move
"The commenter suggests Second Ave. Deli."
NeutralFrom post: Rent Out Bagel Spot For Brunch Nyc
"This comment suggested that 2nd Ave Deli might allow for large parties, although not for a full buyout, and also mentioned picnic options."
NeutralFrom post: Where Would You Go As Your Last Meal In Nyc
"Second Avenue Deli is suggested as a last meal option in NYC."
PositiveFrom post: Need Help With Good Dinner Places
"This user recommended 2nd Ave Deli as being just as good as Katz's Delicatessen, but without the notoriety and difficulty in getting food. They specifically praised its matzo ball soup."
PositiveFrom post: Brisket For Passover
"This commenter noted that while 2nd Ave Deli is nice for a sit-down meal, Sarge's might be better for takeout brisket."
NeutralFrom post: Brisket For Passover
"This commenter mentioned that 2nd Ave Deli is certified kosher, but their meat is not Glatt, which could be a consideration for Passover."
NegativeFrom post: Brisket For Passover
"The original poster listed 2nd Ave Deli as a potential option for Passover brisket."
Neutral