the top five delis in new york times square

a tour guide sampling food at delis in New York Times Square

Are you finding yourself on a big apple trip looking for delis in New York Times Square? We previously wrote an article on the best delis in New York City. A lot of you told us that going to the boroughs is too big of a trek, so we made a list of the best delis by Times Square. Not only is Times Square a hub for entertainment but also home to some of the best delis in New York City. Here are five famous delis around Times Square that you must visit for an authentic NYC deli experience.

1. Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen

A corned beef sandwich with a latke at a deli in Times Square New York City

While all delis used to be kosher, most are now “Kosher Style.” You can experience kosher food on our Famous Jewish Foods tour and experience kosher style food while learning about kosher laws on Iconic Foods of the Lower East Side. Our top pick, Ben’s, keeps kosher food alive, mostly serving observant Jews working in the Diamond District. Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen, located near Times Square, offers a traditional Jewish deli experience with a wide variety of classic dishes. Known for their corned beef and pastrami sandwiches, Ben’s also serves matzo ball soup and potato pancakes. The friendly service and authentic flavors make it a must-visit as it is one of the best New York Delis near Times Square.

2. Sarge's Delicatessen & Diner

A pastrami sandwich at Sarges Deli in New York near Times Square

Sarge's Delicatessen & Diner is a 24-hour institution known for its hearty sandwiches, has a welcoming atmosphere, and is one of the most famous New York delis near Times Squre. Just a short walk from Times Square, Sarge's has been serving favorites like their towering pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and knishes since 1964. Since it’s open late, get my favorite dish: A Towering pastrami sandwich on rye and a side of potato latkes. It’s a reliable choice for any time of day. Definitely check out this iconic deli near NYC’s Times Square.

3. Pastrami Queen at Moynihan Hall | One of our favorite delis in new york times square

A man ordering a sandwich at Pastrami Queen Deli near Times Square in New York

Pastrami Queen is one of our favorite delis in the city and they now have a location at Moynihan Hall, which is only about a 20 minute walk from Times Square. This royal sandwich shop was Anthony Bourdain’s favorite and is renowned for its high-quality, kosher pastrami sandwiches. Their succulent pastrami, served on rye bread, is a must-try for any deli enthusiast. The convenient location makes it an excellent spot to grab a delicious sandwich while exploring the area and is one of the best New York Delis near Times Square. If you want to learn more about this delicious restaurant and the history of Jewish food, take our Famous Jewish Foods tour on the Upper East Side.

4. Carnegie Diner & Cafe

The dessert case at Carnegie Diner which is a famous diner in Times Square in New York City

While the original Carnegie Deli closed, the Carnegie Diner & Cafe is a modern take on the classic New York deli, conveniently located near Times Square. They offer a variety of deli sandwiches, including their famous Reuben and turkey club. The casual atmosphere and extensive menu make it a great spot for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. While the New York Deli Times Square loved is no more, the new iteration does a great job of honoring the iconic spot.

5. Junior's Restaurant & Bakery

The cheesecake at Junior's Deli in Times Square New York

A Brooklyn classic with an outpost in Times Square, Junior's Restaurant & Bakery is an iconic NYC establishment known for its delicious deli sandwiches and famous cheesecake. Located near Times Square, Junior's offers a variety of classic dishes like their towering corned beef and pastrami sandwiches. The friendly atmosphere and extensive menu make it a perfect spot for a meal before or after a Broadway show and the great food makes it one of the top delis in New York Times Square. The fame of this Brooklyn Deli Times Square loves makes it a must visit on your trip to Times Square.

Overwhelmed by choices and want us to make decisions for you?

New York has the best food in the world, but unfortunately, our stomachs aren’t big enough to eat it all on one trip. While you can certainly try to eat at all the delis in New York Times Square, By taking a walking food tour, you’ll be able to sample 5x more restaurants that you would on your own for a fraction of the cost. You’ll also learn a ton of history, see famous sites, and meet a cool local guide. If you’re staying by Times Square, you can take our Broadway Bites and Famous Sites tour, where we eat at four innovative places in four famous places. You can see all of our tours here or check out our calendar below. We’ll see you eating!

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