Best Sandwiches in New York City
1. Pastrami Queen, New York City
Old-school kosher-style deli serving overstuffed pastrami sandwiches on rye bread. The space is small and unassuming; expect to squeeze in for a table.
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Old-school kosher-style deli serving overstuffed pastrami sandwiches on rye bread. The space is small and unassuming; expect to squeeze in for a table.
Ornate, multi-level dining room next to Carnegie Hall, filled with red leather banquettes, gold fixtures, and year-round Christmas decor. The menu is classic Russo-Continental – think borscht, caviar service, and formal afternoon tea.
No-frills East Village counter slinging authentic Philly cheesesteaks on fresh-baked sesame rolls. The narrow space is standing-room-only – most people take their sandwiches across the street to Tompkins Square Park.
Californian cafe serving a focused menu of breakfast and lunch from a simple walk-up counter. The signature breakfast burrito gets all the attention, and for good reason.
Bakery that turns the classic New York bagel into a self-contained meal, stuffing hand-rolled dough with savory fillings. The tiny Greenwich Village shop is built for takeout – grab a Pastrami Reuben and a coffee from the full espresso bar.
Sunlit fast-casual spot serving neurologist-designed bowls and sandwiches for brain health. The Brain Bar pours coffee and juices sweetened with raw honey – no processed sugar in sight.
Corner diner serving Asian-influenced American classics under the rumble of the Manhattan Bridge. Expect long weekend waits for the honey butter pancakes and chicken katsu club.
Community-focused cafe serving espresso, simple sandwiches, and pastries, with local art covering the walls. Evenings bring a switch to beer and wine, often with live music performances.
Old-fashioned lunch counter dishing up serious comfort food – think house-roasted turkey sandwiches and elaborate layer cakes. The cozy, tiled space gets crowded; expect long lines on weekends.
East Harlem bodega serving the city's original chopped cheese sandwich from a 24-hour grill. Ground beef gets chopped with onions and melted American cheese, then pressed into a hero roll for takeaway only.
Counter-service pizzeria turning out airy square slices with a crisp, caramelized cheese crust. The space is strictly standing-room-only, with wall counters for eating and cheesesteaks that rival the pizza.
