Where to Eat Pastrami Sandwich in New York City

🗽 My First Bite of New York’s Most Legendary Sandwich 🥪

There are few bites in New York City more sacred than that first mouthful of a pastrami sandwich. For me, it happened on a chilly January afternoon at Katz’s Delicatessen. The deli was packed, buzzing with life, and the scent of warm rye, sharp mustard, and smoky beef filled the air. I stood awkwardly at the counter, clueless but curious, until the carver handed me a sliver of steaming pastrami to taste. That one bite changed everything juicy, peppery, melt-in-your-mouth beef with the perfect smoky edge. I was hooked.

Since that moment, I’ve gone on what can only be described as a pastrami pilgrimage across the five boroughs. From century-old Jewish delis to modern sandwich joints reinventing the classic, I’ve tasted them all. And if you’re wondering where to eat pastrami sandwich in New York City, this guide is your golden ticket.

In a city that practically invented deli culture, finding “the best” is subjective but deeply personal. Whether you crave tradition or innovation, there’s a pastrami masterpiece waiting for you on a toasted rye. Let’s dig in.

🥪 Best Pastrami Sandwich Spots in New York City 🥪

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1. Katz’s Delicatessen Lower East Side

Atmosphere: Historic, chaotic, absolutely iconic
Average Price: $24–$27

Specialty: Hand-carved pastrami on rye with mustard
Neighborhood: Lower East Side

There’s a reason people still wait in line for Katz’s after 135 years. This is New York pastrami in its purest form. Hand-carved right in front of you, thick slices of pepper-crusted, smoky beef are piled high between soft slices of rye. The whole experience number ticket, carver banter, the chaos of it all is part of the legend.

Personal Tip: Always tip your carver. He might give you a thicker cut or a second sample.

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2. Pastrami Queen Upper East Side & Midtown

Atmosphere: Old-school, cozy, no-frills
Average Price: $19–$24
Specialty: Juicy pastrami on rye with coleslaw
Neighborhoods: Upper East Side, Midtown East

If you want Katz-level quality without the lines, Pastrami Queen is your spot. Their pastrami is steamy, flavorful, and generously portioned. Unlike Katz’s, sandwiches come pre-assembled, but the flavor is just as bold and smoky.

Personal Tip: Get the pastrami Reuben it’s decadent, cheesy, and unforgettable.

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3. 2nd Ave Deli Murray Hill & Upper East Side

Atmosphere: Kosher, polished, and family-friendly
Average Price: $22–$25
Specialty: Hot pastrami with house-made mustard
Neighborhoods: Midtown East (Murray Hill), Upper East Side

This kosher deli is a New York institution, with a menu that preserves Ashkenazi Jewish culinary tradition. Their pastrami sandwich is thick, slightly fatty, and incredibly aromatic. It comes with pickles and a side of nostalgia.

Personal Tip: Don’t skip the free gribenes (crispy chicken skin) if you love rich flavors.

3. 2nd Ave Deli – Murray Hill & Upper East Side

Atmosphere: Kosher, polished, and family-friendly
Average Price: $22–$25
Specialty: Hot pastrami with house-made mustard
Neighborhoods: Midtown East (Murray Hill), Upper East Side

This kosher deli is a New York institution, with a menu that preserves Ashkenazi Jewish culinary tradition. Their pastrami sandwich is thick, slightly fatty, and incredibly aromatic. It comes with pickles and a side of nostalgia.

Personal Tip: Don’t skip the free gribenes (crispy chicken skin) if you love rich flavors.

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4. Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner – Murray Hill

Atmosphere: 24/7 classic diner vibes
Average Price: $20–$24
Specialty: Pastrami stacked mile-high on rye
Neighborhood: Murray Hill

Open 24 hours, Sarge’s is your go-to when the craving strikes at 3 a.m. Their pastrami is brined in-house and has a slightly sweeter, more mellow flavor than some of the pepper-heavy versions. The portion size? Massive.

Personal Tip: Try the “Monster Sandwich” if you’re feeling brave it’s basically the deli version of a skyscraper.

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5. Liebman’s Deli – Riverdale, Bronx

Atmosphere: Classic Jewish deli with neighborhood charm
Average Price: $16–$20
Specialty: Traditional pastrami sandwich with sides
Neighborhood: Riverdale

Founded in 1953, Liebman’s is a Bronx treasure. Their pastrami is sliced thin, piled high, and always fresh. It’s less touristy and more local which means shorter lines and warmer smiles.

Personal Tip: Order a side of knish or potato pancakes for a full deli feast.

6. David’s Brisket House Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn

Atmosphere: Unexpected fusion of Jewish and Yemeni traditions
Average Price: $10–$14
Specialty: Pastrami-beef brisket combo sandwich
Neighborhood: Bedford-Stuyvesant

A bit off the beaten path, David’s Brisket House is where tradition meets multicultural New York. The pastrami here is juicy and spiced with a touch of Middle Eastern influence. The vibe? Humble, friendly, and full of heart.

Personal Tip: Ask for pastrami on a hero roll with brisket you’ll thank me later.

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7. Frankel’s Delicatessen Greenpoint, Brooklyn

Atmosphere: Hipster deli with an old soul
Average Price: $16–$18
Specialty: Pastrami egg & cheese breakfast sandwich
Neighborhood: Greenpoint

Frankel’s might look trendy, but their pastrami game is serious. Brined in-house, smoked to perfection, and served with flair. It’s one of the few places where you can get a pastrami breakfast sandwich and feel like royalty.

Personal Tip: Come early on weekends lines get long, and the breakfast sandwiches go fast.

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8. Harry & Ida’s Meat and Supply Co. Temporarily Closed / Historic Mention

Though closed since 2020, Harry & Ida’s changed the pastrami scene by bringing sustainable, small-batch practices to the art of smoking meat. Their sandwiches were artistic and innovative, proving that pastrami doesn’t have to stay in the past. Worth a shout-out.

🍴 How to Make a Classic NYC Pastrami Sandwich at Home

While nothing beats deli pastrami, you can come pretty close at home with this recipe.

🛒 Ingredients:

• 1 lb sliced pastrami (from butcher or deli)
• 4 slices Jewish rye bread
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard (or deli brown mustard)
• 2 tbsp butter
• Optional: Swiss cheese, coleslaw, sauerkraut

🔪 Instructions:

1. Warm pastrami: Heat slices in a steamer or microwave for about 30 seconds until hot but not dry.
2. Toast rye: Lightly butter and toast the bread on a skillet or grill until golden.
3. Assemble: Spread mustard on both slices of bread.
4. Stack: Add hot pastrami (and cheese/slaw if using) between the slices.
5. Press & serve: Press slightly for warmth and structure, then slice in half.

💡 My Tips:

• Steam, don’t fry the pastrami it stays juicier.
• Rye bread matters. Use fresh deli-style with caraway seeds.
• Add melted Swiss and sauerkraut to create a Pastrami Reuben.

🥇 Comparison Table: Best Pastrami Sandwich in NYC

Spot	Best For	Price Range	Atmosphere
Katz’s	Most iconic	$$$	Historic chaos
Pastrami Queen	Authentic, less crowded	$$	Cozy deli
2nd Ave Deli	Kosher traditional	$$	Polished & classic
Sarge’s	Late-night cravings	$$	24/7 diner vibes
David’s Brisket	Underrated local gem	$	No-frills, diverse
Frankel’s	Breakfast meets deli	$$	Trendy Brooklyn
Liebman’s	Best in the Bronx	$–$$	Neighborhood feel

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💬 Local Golden Tip

Here’s one tip I swear by: If they ask if you want it “lean or fatty,” go fatty. That’s where the flavor lives. Also, always request it hot and freshly sliced never settle for cold deli-case pastrami if you want the real NYC experience.

🔗 Related Reads

Glossary of NYC Deli Terms

Where to Eat Pastrami Sandwich in New York City: Iconic Spots

Have you tried any of these delis? Got a hidden gem to share?

Drop it in the comments! I’m always on the hunt for the next unforgettable pastrami sandwich.

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📌 Key Takeaways

• NYC is home to the world’s most iconic pastrami sandwiches.
• From historic delis to modern takes, there’s something for every palate.
• Pastrami has deep cultural roots, tied to immigrant history.
• Making it at home? Focus on good rye, juicy meat, and proper steam.
• Insider tip: Fatty cuts + hot = pastrami perfection.

❓ FAQ

1. What’s the difference between pastrami and corned beef?
Pastrami is smoked and spiced after brining, while corned beef is only brined. Pastrami has a more peppery, smoky flavor.

2. Is pastrami always served on rye?
Traditionally, yes. But some delis offer it on rolls, bagels, or even in wraps.

3. Can I find kosher pastrami in NYC?
Absolutely. Try 2nd Ave Deli or Liebman’s for kosher-certified options.

4. What’s the best time to visit Katz’s?
Mid-afternoon on weekdays is ideal. Avoid lunch rush and weekend crowds if possible.

5. Can I freeze pastrami?
Yes, but it’s best eaten fresh. If freezing, wrap tightly and steam to reheat—not microwave.

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Written by: Diana Peter Urban Gastronomy Researcher, Feastloom Team
Lover of sandwiches, history, and New York’s ever-evolving food scene.