Katz's Delicatessen
205 E Houston St, New York City, NY, 10002
Katz’s Delicatessen isn’t just a beloved restaurant—it’s a New York City institution. Known for the over-the-top proportions of its pastrami sandwiches, Katz’s traces its history all the way back to 1888. Today considered a culinary and cultural staple of Manhattan’s Lower East Side, the deli made a famous cameo appearance in the movie When Harry Met Sally.
The basics
For many visitors to New York, Katz’s Delicatessen is as much a tourist attraction as a restaurant—but it’d be a real loss to visit without stopping for a meal. It’s worth braving the lines, which can stretch out onto the sidewalk at peak times. Grab your ticket at the door, step up to one of the counter stations, and have your order ready—pastrami or corned beef on rye are the classic options here.
While it’s easy to visit Katz’s on your own, you can also explore the landmark deli as part of a Lower East Side food tour. Learn all about the area’s history of Jewish immigration, and discover how eateries like Katz’s still reflect that heritage today.
Things to know before you go
The number-one rule of Katz’s is: don’t lose your ticket—if you do, you’ll have to pay a fine.
While pastrami is the best-known option here, don’t forget to browse the breakfast menu, or order other Jewish deli classics like matzo ball soup and knishes.
For the best pastrami experience, order your sandwich “juicy”—and if the portions seem too large to tackle, get a half-sandwich instead.
How to get there
Katz’s Delicatessen is located at 205 East Houston Street in New York’s Lower East Side neighborhood. To get there using public transportation, take the F train to 2nd Ave, or take the F, J, M, or Z trains to Delancey St–Essex St. Taxis and rideshare services are also easy options.
When to get there
Katz’s Delicatessen is open daily. On Monday–Thursday, it’s open from early in the morning until late at night; on weekends, it’s open for 24 hours. Note that it closes early on Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. For a calmer visiting experience, come for breakfast, or stop by for dinner rather than lunch.
Russ & Daughters
Just a quick trip away from Katz’s is another of the Lower East Side’s legendary Jewish culinary establishments: Russ & Daughters. Celebrated for its bagels, bialys, and smoked salmon—not to mention sweet treats like babka, rugelach, and black and white cookies—it’s an unmissable Manhattan dining staple.
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