What tour of New York City would be complete without a tour through meat-lover’s shrine, Katz’s Delicatessen, at 205 East Houston Street? Just walk through the door and you’re handed a number. Get in line. Sit down and really fill up, or take it out the door with you. A pastrami sandwich could last several meals on its own, (easily putting you into meat and salt overload).
Granted, we didn’t actually eat there (we had already eaten… Italian), but witnessed a line at the counter, the tables full, a big pastrami sandwich awaiting delivery to its table and plenty of satisfied eaters. It was more of a local, cultural pilgrimage that begged obeisance.
From Katz’s web site:
“It would not have been possible for Katz’s Delicatessen to survive three depressions, numerous recessions, and two World Wars if we weren’t the best in NYC. Since opening in 1888, Katz’s Deli has maintained the tradition of quality that made us a beloved deli among the immigrants who crowded into the Lower East Side one hundred years ago. Generation after generation has stood before the carvers, watching as they skillfully slice a pile of pastrami, turkey, or corned beef by hand. It’s the exceptional taste that has carried our name far beyond NYC. Over the last century, a lot has changed- the skyline, technology- but Katz’s Delicatessen has been a cooking up the same food for 125 years, and will continue for years to come.”
Samples from the neon menu sign:
- Tongue on Rye Sandwich $17.45
- Knoblewurst on Rye Sandwich $14.95
- Pastrami on Rye Sandwich $18.45
- Hard Salami on Rye Sandwich $15.25
- Chopped Liver Sandwich on Rye $14.25
- 1/2 Sandwich & Matzoh Ball Soup $16.45
Katz’s Delicatessen
“Known for the best.”
Katz’s Delicatessen
“Send a salami to your boy in the army.” (How about girls, too?)
Katz’s Delicatessen
You could eat for days on this sandwich.
Katz’s Delicatessen
Katz’s, that’s all.
Katz’s Delicatessen
I’ll take a Liver Puff, please (not on the current menu).
Katz’s Delicatessen
A classic.
Katz’s Delicatessen
Order sandwiches here.
Katz’s Delicatessen
Soda, fries and cappuccino.
Katz’s Delicatessen
Harry met Sally here at Katz’s.
Katz’s Delicatessen
Katz’s, from 1888, with its modern backdrop.