Trips

NYC Eats: Katz’s Deli

For over 100 years, New Yorkers and tourists have been savoring the corned beef and pastrami at Katz’s Deli. Established in 1888, this legendary eatery is one of NYC’s oldest and most popular delis. So if you are traveling to New York, eating here is a MUST!

Katz's Deli sign and front of the restaurant.

Katz’s Delicatessen is in the Lower East Side of Manhattan on the corner of Houston and Ludlow. The subway is only a few blocks away.

Katz’s Deli: How To

If you’re a first-timer, here is the 411 on what to do when you arrive.

Inside of Katz's Deli with many tables and diners and lots of photographs on the wall.

There is a good chance the line stretches down the block, so queue up and get ready. Trust me; it’s worth it!

Line of people outside of Katz's Deli waiting to get into the restaurant.

Once you get inside, you’ll have to choose how to order: at the counter or at the table

People waiting to order at the counter of Katz's Deli.

Ordering at the counter is self-serve. Alternatively, guests can sit in the designated table service area in the back and order with a server.

A photo of a portion of the menu that includes Katz's Pastrami sandwich.

For a more fun Katz’s Deli experience, order at the counter. Select a line behind one of the cutters.

Signs above the counter with menu and directions on where to order at Katz's Deli.

It’s entertaining to watch your cutter skillfully slice your fresh meat! Here is where you start to appreciate the tenderness and freshness! 

Cutter at Katz's Deli slicing beef.

You might even get a little preview taste.

Close up view of brisket at Katz's Deli.

Signs direct visitors where to order other items like drinks and sides.

Crowd of people waiting to order at the counter at Katz's deli.

If you’ve had a long day of touring, consider opting for table service. A server will take your order and deliver your food giving your feet a little rest.

Waitress taking an order at Katz's Deli.

Critical Tip: Keep Your Ticket

Upon entry, each guest gets a ticket. Hang on to it! At Katz’s Deli, you pay when you leave. Staff write your order on the tickets and use them to calculate your bill. Lost tickets result in an additional charge!

Two tickets that say Please Return Ticket Lost Ticket Fees Apply at Katz's Deli

While there are other dishes on the menu, beef is the star of the show. And their most iconic dish is the pastrami on rye.

Pastrami on Rye at Katz's Deli

Can’t decide what beef to order? Try the sampler with pastrami, brisket, and corned beef. It’s served with bread and pickles.

Sliced corned beef, brisket, and pastrami on a plate at Katz's Deli.

If you love beef, eat here! But don’t expect a lot of frills. The meat stands on its own. Katz’s Deli is one NYC icon that lives up to the hype!

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