The Best Jewish Delis in Each of the US's 20 Largest Cities
The New York-style Jewish deli offers a very particular gastronomic experience. Enter one, and you'll be confronted with sandwiches so big they don't fit in mouths and unfancy tables dotted with homemade pickles. But there's more to the Jewish dining scene. Come along as we traverse America's largest cities to uncover the best kosher restaurants, from traditional, casual, family-friendly spots to eateries led by gourmands and professional chefs.
This guide spotlights the vibrant, diverse world of kosher food and includes delis that are culturally Jewish but not strictly kosher and establishments that have kashrut certification. Bring on the nosh!
01 New York, NY - Katz's Delicatessen
This legendary no-frills deli in Manhattan's Lower East Side is the oldest in the Empire City and started welcoming diners in 1888. Katz's is well-known for its cranky-for-fun service and "mile-high" sandwiches, with the pastrami on rye being the most famous, but it also serves items like blintzes. The sandwiches are very filling, expensive, and could be split between two people. They're packed with meat and worth the hype. Fun fact: Katz's appeared in the most iconic scene from the 1989 romcom, "When Harry Met Sally" and it's possible to run into a celeb here if you're keen on your own meet-cute.
02 Los Angeles, CA - Langer's Deli
If you're on the opposite end of the country and feeling for epic pastrami, the food at the charmingly old-fashioned Langer's Deli in LA will hit the spot. Open since 1947, it's another landmark diner with a lot of history under its belt, and like Katz's is a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand honoree. The #19 pastrami sandwich, AKA Food and Wine magazine's best sandwich in the Sunshine State, is a must-try, as are the matzo ball soup and potato latkes with jam. Indulge in a slice of whipped cream cake at one of the must-visit "Kosher" restaurants in America.
03 Chicago, IL - Manny's Deli
Midwest folks won't get left out with Manny's in this nook of the country. Think corned beef sandwiches (the Reuben is one of the most-ordered menu items), potato pancakes, satisfying knishes and kishke, and no-frills All-American decor. Again, servings are huge and pricey, so you could split a sandwich if you like. Manny's has been open since 1942, and presidents have popped by over the years, among other notable people. It frequently appears on "Best Kosher Restaurants USA" lists.
04 Houston, TX - Katz's Deli
Like Katz's in New York City, the Katz's in Houston "never kloses" so you can get your fix of Jewish dishes like lox bagels and stuffed cabbage 24 hours a day. Branches like the one near Briargrove have a nostalgic feel with black and white tiles and similarly monotone photos of Manhattan. Service is friendly and efficient.
05 Phoenix, AZ - Miracle Mile Deli
Serving the Phoenix community since 1949, Miracle Mile Deli is a family-owned institution known for its generous portions and classic Jewish deli fare. Located on North 16th Street, this deli offers a variety of daily specials, including their famous corned beef and cabbage, and hand-carved roast turkey. The deli also features a Cravings Club, where loyal patrons receive a free dessert on their birthday. Don't miss their homemade soups and the delicious baked macaroni and cheese.
06 Philadelphia, PA - Famous Fourth Street Deli
How about brunch at a Philly institution that has been trading since 1923? You can order a classic pastrami sandwich, pea soup that tastes like Nana's, or challah French toast, and as a sweet treat, you can end your meal with nutty chocolate chip cookies. This spot's another fav with politicians and serves oversized portions (you should be sensing a pattern by now). Family photos pack the walls, and Art Deco lights hang from the ceiling. Around 65% of orders are for takeout.
07 San Antonio, TX - The Hayden
The Hayden in San Antonio is a delightful fusion of a semi-classic old school diner with a delicatessen soul. Located at Broadway and Alon Market, this eatery offers a unique mix of delicatessen favorites and South Tex/Mex mashups. Known for its authentic hospitality and delicious food, The Hayden has quickly become a favorite among locals. Whether you're craving a traditional deli sandwich or something with a Tex-Mex twist, this spot has something for everyone.
08 San Diego, CA - D.Z. Akin's
Back on the west coast, D Z Akin's is an always-bustling delicatessen. Pop in for the usual suspects and so much more. Pickled herring, chopped liver, brisket, and ginormous salads are just some of the items on offer. Try the kreplach soup's dumplingy goodness and take some rugelach cookies to go. D Z Akin's is not kosher and prices are on par with similar New York-style delis.
09 Dallas, TX - Cindi's Deli
Cindi's New York Deli and Bakery brings the authentic flavors of New York to Dallas with four convenient locations. Famous for its breakfast served all day, Cindi's offers a wide selection of egg dishes, pancakes, and waffles. Their New York-style sandwiches, including the corned beef and pastrami, are a must-try. The bakery produces fresh bagels, rye breads, and pastries daily. Whether you're dining in or taking out, Cindi's provides a genuine deli experience in the heart of Texas.
10 San Jose, CA - Gunther's
Gunther's Restaurant & Catering has been a staple in the Bay Area since 1971. Known for its extensive catering services and delicious deli offerings, Gunther's is a go-to spot for both everyday meals and special events. While the website provides limited details, it's clear that this establishment has earned a strong reputation for quality and service over the decades. For a taste of tradition in San Jose, Gunther's is a reliable choice.
11 Austin, TX - Mum Foods
Specializing in farm-to-table catering, Mum Foods in Austin offers a unique and flavorful experience with their smoked and fresh farm products. You can find them at local Texas farmers' markets such as Mueller, Lakeline, and Barton Creek. Known for their seasonal flavors and pre-order BBQ, Mum Foods provides a fresh and authentic taste of Texas. Their dedication to quality ingredients and preparation makes them a standout in Austin's food scene.
12 Washington, D.C. - Call Your Mother
Before the award-winning Call Your Mother came to town in 2018, DC was known as something of a bagel desert. Thankfully, that's no longer the case, so if you're in the mood for wood-fired bagels and comfort food, this is your go-to budget-friendly place in the capital. Helmed by Argentinian chef Daniela Moreira, whose impressive resume includes a scholarship to the Culinary Institute of America and a stint at the renowned Eleven Madison Park in NYC, Call Your Mother's popularity led to the opening of nine more funky, colorful locations, including branches in Denver, Maryland, and Virginia. Try the Thunderbird breakfast bagel with its hint of sweetness.
13 Fort Worth, TX - Carshon's Delicatessen
This heritage restaurant in Fort Worth has been in operation for close to a century. It's a cash-only establishment where aficionados know the difference between Rachels, Rebeccas, and Reubens and their various ingredients, including cream cheese, egg bread, turkey, melted Swiss, coleslaw, and Russian dressing. Come for the savory deli sandwiches, and stay for the pastries and pies. The chocolate meringue pie makes for a magnificent conclusion to the meal, and you may want to procure some lemon bars before you head out.
14 Columbus, OH - Katzinger's
Katzinger's Delicatessen has been a beloved fixture in Columbus since it first opened. With locations in German Village and Dublin, this deli is known for its hearty sandwiches, deli platters, and homemade desserts. Patrons enjoy the help-yourself pickle barrel and the artisanal grocery offerings. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Reuben or a fresh chef's salad, Katzinger's delivers a satisfying and authentic deli experience.
15 Charlotte, NC - Phil's Deli
Phil's Deli II in Charlotte's Strawberry Hill neighborhood has been serving authentic deli fare for over 40 years. Founded by Phil Levine, this Kosher-style deli offers a wide range of dishes, including Jewish specialties like Matzo ball soup and Reubens, as well as classic American sandwiches and burgers. Known for its family atmosphere and fresh, homemade ingredients, Phil's Deli is a cherished spot for locals. The Levine family's dedication to quality and community shines through in every meal.
16 Indianapolis, IN - Shapiro's Delicatessen
This must-try cafeteria-style deli in Indy has been feeding people for over 100 years. Shapiro's takes pride in sourcing high-quality ingredients, so the food is always on point, but service varies. Stop here for deviled eggs, cozy mac and cheese, and green beans and asparagus, which are a lot yummier than they sound. The desserts here are delectable, too, and include carrot cake, cheesecakes, and German chocolate cake. There are two branches: one downtown and one at the Indianapolis Airport. Prices run lower than comparative offerings in bigger cities.
17 Seattle, WA - Dingfelder's Delicatessen
Dingfielder's Delicatessen on Capitol Hill offers counter service and the authentic Jewish deli food you know and love, including pickled green tomatoes, tongue, kosher salami, gribenes, vegan soups, and various schmears to suit your tastebuds. It wouldn't be a traditional New York-style establishment without sandwiches stacked with thin, impressive slices of meat. Linzar tarts and babka sweeten the deal.
18 Denver, CO - East Side Kosher Deli
Denver's Eastside Kosher Deli is a mandatory stop on a kosher culinary tour of the U.S. It recently underwent a revamp, so you can look forward to a spacious, modern venue. In addition to delivering craving-worthy smoked meats, it sells 100% kosher sushi, sizzling fajitas, and copious sufganiyot. The counter's contents are colorful and inviting, but beyond the gorgeous food, you can purchase your specialist and imported grocery goods here and items like kiddush cups for Sabbath. Orthodox patrons are as welcome as non-kosher customers.
19 Jacksonville, FL - Gili's Kitchen
Gili's Kitchen's two locations downtown and in Ormond Beach are certified kosher. They provide a feast for cosmopolitan palates, all under the watchful eye of Tadmor-trained Chef Gili himself. Sample the fantastic burgers, salmon barbecue, and sweet potato fries that are a cut above the rest. Locally sourced ingredients, reasonable prices, and a culinary pedigree ensure you'll have one of the top kosher dining experiences in America.
20 San Francisco, CA - Wise Sons
Founded in the Mission District, Wise Sons Jewish Delicatessen is renowned for blending traditional Jewish recipes with the finest Californian ingredients. Their house-made pastrami and corned beef are brined in a proprietary spice blend and smoked over hickory highlight, as are their double-baked rye bread and chocolate-filled babka. Enjoy their lusciously fatty smoked salmon, which pairs perfectly with the double whipped cream cheese on freshly boiled and baked bagels.
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