Best Delis in New York

2nd Avenue Deli is known for delivering an authentic Jewish culinary experience. A favorite of kosher diners in New York City for decades, here you'll find the quintessential pastrami sandwich on rye, and served with mustard. Also, make sure you grab a side of latkes and matzo balls in soup for a perfect meal.

Established in 1900, Faicco’s Italian Specialties has been the place to get an Italian sub the right way. The expansive array of cold cuts and fresh bread allows you to customize your sandwich to your heart's desire. Living up to its name, Faicco’s Italian Specialties also offers delectable items like homemade sausage, eggplant parmesan, and lasagna. 

Alidoro, a spin-off of Melampo, has built on the legacy of the original as a Soho institution dishing out some of the best sandwiches in town. At Alidoro you'll find the classics along with some creations that highlight the delicious world of Italian cuisine. Whether you like it hot or cold, a sandwich on the board at Alidoro will surely be calling your name.

Opened by brothers Zach and Alex Frankel, Frankel's Delicatessen & Appetizing serves as the Frankel's gift of Jewish cuisine to their native Upper West Side. The Greenpoint shop has become known for its smoked meats of fish that make their way into sandwiches that have people coming back for more. A standout is the Number One Bagel, a mix of pastrami salmon and dill cucumber.

Going viral in recent months thanks to TikTok, Datz Deli has attracted international attention for its beef patty sandwich creations. Building on Bodega creations, owner Joshua Dat has created a new range of sandwiches that fuses the Jamaican patty with fillings like mac and cheese, and oxtail. Be prepared to wait though, as the Jamaican patties do run out, but get replenished throughout the day. 

A favorite of workers in the area, Defonte's Sandwich Shop has been serving hearty heros since 1922. The Red Hook deli is a haven for cured pork lovers, offering everything and anything you can think of. A must-try is the heft Nicky Special, layered with ham, salami, and capocollo, fried slices of eggplant, provolone, and hot peppers. Not to mention a topping of oregano and addictive pickled vegetables.

For those looking for a low-key bodega to try out what New York has to offer, Sunny and Annie’s Deli is the place for you. Building on some of the city's Bodega favorites, the Biden, the Godfather, and the Mona Lisa Sandwich are some of the standouts at this deli. Also, for those looking for breakfast regardless if it's morning or not, Sunny and Annie’s Deli offers a breakfast special from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day. 

Despite having some standout pastrami, Sarge’s Delicatessen and Diner is known for its corned beef, matzo ball soup, and cheesecake. Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., this deli is an excellent choice for any time during the day. Also, for those looking for a challenge, as about "The Monster," be warned it is a real challenge.

A favorite on the Upper East Side, Pastrami Queen has been serving overstuffed sandwiches for over two decades now. While the name Pastrami Queen is definitely true, aside from the delectable pastrami, you can find an array of smoked meats at this deli. Some offerings to try include the smoked turkey that is unlike the cuts you are familiar with and beef tongue for some of the more adventurous. 

Cristina's is nestled deep within Whitestone, Queens and is a local 24-hour favorite for those looking for giant sandwiches. Definitely bring an appetite, as these heroes (or rolls, if that's your preference) are huge and stacked with your order. The "Heart Attack" and "Bad Boy" chicken sandwiches go a bit crazy with bacon, fries and onion rings in 'em, but to be honest it's what this place is known for. Try the "Super Mario" for something a bit more subtle.