A true New York institution and an absolute must-visit. Katz’s Delicatessen is much more than a restaurant—it’s a piece of New York history. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the energy, the authenticity, and the decades of stories that have passed through its doors. Of course, the legendary pastrami sandwich lives up to the hype. The meat is incredibly tender, flavorful, and generously stacked, making every bite worth the wait. The portions are famously huge, and the quality is great. What we loved most was that Katz’s remains completely unapologetic about what it is: loud, busy, bustling, and full of character. It feels genuine in a city where authenticity can sometimes be hard to find. Yes, there may be a line, and yes, you’ll probably share the experience with plenty of tourists—but for good reason. This is one of those iconic places that truly deserves its reputation. If you’re visiting New York for the first time, Katz’s should be on your list. If you’re returning to New York, it’s the kind of place you’ll happily come back to again and again.

I’ve been to Katz’s several times over the years, and every time I bring someone new, I get to experience it all over again through their eyes. There is something special about watching a first timer step up to the counter, see those mountains of hand carved pastrami, and realize that the sandwich they are about to receive is unlike anything back home. Yes, there is usually a line. Yes, it is busy. But Katz’s has been doing this since 1888, and there is a reason generations of New Yorkers and visitors keep coming back. The pastrami is the star of the show. Tender, smoky, peppery, and sliced right in front of you. The brisket is outstanding as well, and the potato latkes are worth saving room for. What I love most is that Katz’s does not try to be trendy. It does not need gimmicks, fancy presentations, or social media tricks. It simply focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well and has been doing it for more than a century. Every visit feels a little like stepping into a piece of New York history. The walls tell stories, the countermen work with the confidence that comes from decades of experience, and the food still lives up to the reputation. Whenever friends or family visit the city with me, Katz’s is one of the first places I suggest. Not because it is famous, but because it earns that fame every single day. Five stars.

We went there on a Wednesday afternoon and it was packed. Though lines move fast and everyone is extremely helpful. We had the Ruben sandwich with pastrami and we also tried the square knishes. The sandwich is #1 or #2 in my list of best ever. Soft bread, melted cheese, tender flavory pastrami, and mustard. You can taste all of the different flavors as they are perfectly balanced. The knishes were very good too but it was the first time ever so I had no benchmark to compare. Definitely a new favorite at NYC. Will come back for more.