Looking for the best pastrami sandwich in NYC? This guide helps you decide quickly.
We compare well-known deli spots across Manhattan and Brooklyn, what to order, and when to go.
This 2026 guide focuses on practical picks: classic Jewish delis, neighborhood sandwich counters, and fast downtown lunch spots.
Use the table below to choose fast, then see detailed tips for each location.
- Quick picks
- Top pastrami sandwich spots
- How to choose the right deli
- Mistakes to avoid
- FAQ
| Place | Best for | Neighborhood | Price | What to order | Quick tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Katz’s Delicatessen | Iconic deli experience | Lower East Side | ~$20–30 | Pastrami on Rye | Go late morning |
| Frankel’s Delicatessen | Modern Brooklyn deli | Greenpoint | ~$10–20 | Pastrami sandwich | Arrive early |
| Sarge’s Delicatessen | Classic sit-down deli | Midtown East | ~$20–30 | Pastrami sandwich | Lunch before rush |
| Stage Door Delicatessen | Fast downtown lunch | Financial District | ~$10–20 | Pastrami sandwich | Weekday lunch |
| West Bank Gourmet Deli | Quick neighborhood pick | Battery Park | ~$10–20 | Pastrami sandwich | Casual stop |
Katz’s Delicatessen
Official website:
Google Maps:
- Vibe: Legendary old-school Jewish deli atmosphere
- Why go: Famous for thick hand-carved pastrami and a long-standing reputation
- What to order: Pastrami on Rye
- Price range: ~$20–30 per person
- Neighborhood: Lower East Side – Manhattan
- Closest subway: 2nd Ave (F)
- Best time to go: Late morning or mid-afternoon to avoid heavier crowds
- Insider tip: Ask for a sample slice while they carve the meat
Frankel’s Delicatessen & Appetizing
Google Maps:
- Vibe: Modern Jewish deli with a contemporary Brooklyn feel
- Why go: Highly rated neighborhood deli serving a classic pastrami sandwich
- What to order: Pastrami sandwich
- Price range: ~$10–20 per person
- Neighborhood: Greenpoint – Brooklyn
- Closest subway: Greenpoint Ave (G)
- Best time to go: Earlier in the day before peak lunch
- Insider tip: A good pick if you want deli-style pastrami without the heavy tourist crowds
Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner
Google Maps:
- Vibe: Traditional deli-diner with sit-down service
- Why go: Reliable Midtown option known for generous portions
- What to order: Pastrami sandwich
- Price range: ~$20–30 per person
- Neighborhood: Murray Hill / Midtown East – Manhattan
- Closest subway: 33rd St or Grand Central area (verify exact line)
- Best time to go: Lunch or early dinner before busy periods
- Insider tip: Practical choice if you want deli pastrami without traveling downtown
Stage Door Delicatessen
Google Maps:
- Vibe: Casual Financial District lunch deli
- Why go: Convenient downtown spot for a quick pastrami sandwich
- What to order: Pastrami sandwich
- Price range: ~$10–20 per person
- Neighborhood: Financial District – Manhattan
- Closest subway: World Trade Center / Fulton area
- Best time to go: Weekday lunch or early afternoon
- Insider tip: Good option if you’re exploring Lower Manhattan
West Bank Gourmet Deli (Battery Park)
Google Maps:
- Vibe: Neighborhood deli counter with quick service
- Why go: Simple downtown stop near Battery Park
- What to order: Pastrami sandwich
- Price range: ~$10–20 per person
- Neighborhood: Battery Park / Financial District – Manhattan
- Closest subway: South Ferry / Whitehall area
- Best time to go: Lunch hours
- Insider tip: A convenient neighborhood choice rather than a destination deli
Use this quick checklist:
- Portion size: Some delis serve very large sandwiches
- Wait time: Famous spots can have long lines
- Budget: Prices vary between neighborhood delis and iconic institutions
- Vibe: Casual deli counter vs sit-down diner
- Location: Choose a spot close to your itinerary
- Assuming all pastrami is the same. Quality and portion size vary a lot.
- Going only during peak lunch hours. Lines can get long.
- Ordering without checking portion size. Some sandwiches are large enough to share.
- Ignoring neighborhood options. Some smaller delis offer solid pastrami without crowds.
- Not checking menu details. Bread or sides can vary by deli.
How much does a pastrami sandwich cost in NYC?
Prices vary depending on the deli. In this guide, most range from about $10–30 per person, depending on the restaurant and portion size.
What neighborhood has the best pastrami delis?
Lower East Side and Midtown have several classic Jewish delis. Brooklyn also has modern deli spots offering high-quality pastrami.
What should you order at a classic NYC deli?
A pastrami on rye is the classic order, usually served with mustard.
Is a pastrami sandwich worth trying in NYC?
Yes. NYC deli pastrami sandwiches are known for thick-cut meat, rye bread, and traditional preparation.
What is the difference between corned beef and pastrami?
Both are cured beef, but pastrami is typically seasoned and smoked, while corned beef is usually boiled.
If you are building your own NYC deli list,
you may also want to read our guide to the best corned beef sandwich in NYC and our picks for the best roast beef sandwich in NYC.
