TLDR
Iconic roast beef heroes piled high w/ mozz, onions & signature gravy. A Brooklyn classic since '68.
Instagram Posts References
John's Deli, established in 1968, has been a staple in Brooklyn for over 57 years, known for its iconic Johnny Roast Beef sandwich. The sandwich features their signature home-cooked bottom round roast beef, which is cooked for approximately two hours and then trimmed. It is prepared with fresh mozzarella cheese, sautéed caramelized onions, and their distinctive brown gravy, affectionately referred to as 'tar,' 'black gold,' or 'motor oil.' The sandwich is often served with a side of gravy for dipping, enhancing its rich and tender qualities. The reviewer highlights the roast beef as the 'juiciest, most tender' they've ever experienced, and describes the sandwich as having 'every dimension of a great sandwich,' with the gravy perfectly tying all the components together.
John's Deli, established in 1968, is featured for its Johnny Roast Beef hero, priced at $16.25. The establishment specializes in succulent roast beef sandwiches.
Willa Moore reviews The Original John's Deli, a Gravesend institution famous for its roast beef sandwiches. The "Johnny Roastbeef," loaded with mozzarella, onions, and gravy, is a must-try.
Details
A long-standing Brooklyn institution since 1968, John's Deli is celebrated for its iconic roast beef sandwiches, particularly the "Johnny Roast Beef" hero [1], [2]. This sandwich is a flavor explosion, featuring succulent roast beef, fresh mozzarella, caramelized onions, and a rich, dark gravy that ties it all together [2]. Praised for its generous portions and ability to remain satisfying, it's a must-try for sandwich aficionados [1], [2].
Food Overview
John's Deli is renowned for its roast beef sandwiches, with the "Johnny Roast Beef" hero being a standout dish [1], [2]. This sandwich is generously topped with roast beef, mozzarella, caramelized onions, and a unique, thick gravy that keeps the beef moist and adds a distinctive flavor [2]. It's frequently recommended, with some users offering extra sauce for dipping [2]. The deli also offers other notable sandwiches like the "Apollo Creed" (chicken cutlet) and a fried eggplant sandwich [3].
Caveats
One user mentioned that the "famous sandwich," loaded with mozzarella sauce and onion, can sometimes overpower the beef, though it's generally considered tasty.
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About JOHN'S DELI
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Recommendations For Sandwich Restaurants That Are
"This commenter recommended John's on Stillwell in Brooklyn."
PositiveFrom post: Brennan And Carr We Do Things The Old Way Nyt
"John Deli is described as different but good. Their famous sandwich is loaded with mozzarella sauce and onion, similar to a cheesesteak, which can sometimes overpower the beef but is generally tasty."
PositiveFrom post: Brennan And Carr We Do Things The Old Way Nyt
"John Deli is recommended as a favorite by a commenter who grew up eating there. Their famous sandwich is loaded with mozzarella sauce and onion, described as similar to a cheesesteak."
PositiveFrom post: Anyone Have Any Chicken Cutlet Sandwich Recs Have
"John's Deli in Brooklyn is listed as a recommendation for sandwiches."
PositiveFrom post: Recs For A Taste Of New York For European Visitors
"The original John Deli, a few blocks from L&B's, is recommended for its roast beef sandwich."
PositiveFrom post: What Deli Sandwich Shop Am I Missing
"This commenter seconded the recommendation for John's Deli, stating it is very good."
PositiveFrom post: What Deli Sandwich Shop Am I Missing
"John's Deli in Brooklyn was recommended, particularly the 'original' location on Stillwell. The roast beef hero is highlighted, noted for its moistness due to onions, mozzarella, and a thick black sauce."
PositiveFrom post: What To Eat On Coney Island Boardwalk That Isnt A
"The user agrees that John's Deli has the best roast beef sandwich, and also notes that while Roll n Roaster has become expensive, their roast beef sandwich at $9 is still hard to beat."
PositiveFrom post: What To Eat On Coney Island Boardwalk That Isnt A
"John's Deli, located a short subway ride from Coney Island, is highly recommended for its roast beef, mozzarella, and gravy hero sandwich. The comment also mentions Roll'n Roaster has become expensive."
PositiveFrom post: Family Birthday Lunch
"John's Deli is famous for its roast beef sandwich, which is generously topped with caramelized onions, mozzarella, and a special black sauce that keeps the beef moist. Extra sauce for dipping is available."
PositiveFrom post: I Painted A Dozen Brooklyn Pizzerias Storefronts
"The user mentions John's as one of their favorite pizzerias in Brooklyn."
Positive