Katz’s Delicatessen is more than just a place to grab a pastrami on rye; it is a cornerstone of New York City’s culinary identity. Located at the intersection of East Houston and Ludlow Street, this iconic eatery has been serving hungry locals and curious tourists for over a century. The energy of the Lower East Side is undeniable, with its mix of old-world charm and modern urban grit.
However, the neighborhood surrounding this legendary deli is a dynamic food landscape that extends far beyond towering sandwiches. While waiting in line for a taste of their famous brisket is a rite of passage, the surrounding blocks offer a diverse array of dining options. From intimate date-night spots to casual noodle bars, the area is a microcosm of New York City’s melting pot culture.
Because Katz’s is often a daytime or early evening destination, many visitors find themselves looking for a different vibe for their next meal. The area is incredibly walkable, meaning you can transition from a heavy meat platter to a light seafood dish or spicy Thai curry within minutes. Whether you are a local playing tour guide or a visitor staying in a nearby hotel, knowing where to eat next is essential.
The challenge isn’t finding food; it is filtering through the noise to find the spots that are actually worth your time and money. This guide focuses on the establishments that have stood the test of time or are currently making waves in the culinary scene. We prioritize quality, atmosphere, and proximity to ensure you don’t waste a single step on your culinary tour.
We have curated a list that respects the history of the Lower East Side while embracing the new wave of chefs moving into the neighborhood. From classic Jewish appetizing stores to modern Italian trattorias, there is a table for every craving. You can expect a mix of historic institutions and trendy hotspots that define the current dining zeitgeist of downtown Manhattan.
Below, you will find a selection of the best restaurants located just a short stroll from Katz’s front door. These are the places where the food is memorable, the service is reliable, and the experience feels authentically New York. Use this list to plan a full day of eating around one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Russ & Daughters Cafe
| Address | 127 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Phone | (212) 475-4881 |
I stopped by Russ & Daughters while exploring the Lower East Side and wanted to try a place that felt connected to New York food history. The shop was busy but had a comfortable rhythm, with people picking up breakfast, lunch, and traditional Jewish deli favorites. It felt more like a neighborhood stop than a tourist attraction.
I ordered the classic bagel with lox, smoked whitefish salad, latkes, and a black and white cookie. The bagel and lox was the highlight for me. The smoked fish had a nice flavor without being too overpowering, and the cream cheese, onion, and capers brought everything together. The whitefish salad was creamy and rich, while the latkes gave the meal something warm and crispy. The cookie was a nice sweet finish after all the savory flavors.
The shop is small, so it can feel crowded during busy times, but that is part of the experience. Everything feels carefully prepared without losing the casual deli feeling. I liked that the food was traditional but still easy to enjoy even if you are visiting for the first time.
This was one of those meals where the history of the place adds to the experience, but the food itself is what makes it worth visiting. I would definitely return for another bagel and lox.
A bagel is a bagel, but a bagel nosh with some caviar and friends? Well that sounds like Russ & Daughters Cafe.
This is my go to place when I want to impress upon a neophyte to the city what an upscale deli experience can be. The bagels are great. The cured fish are absolutely delightful. Want a little champagne to go with your open faced bagel sandwich situation? You’ve got it.
Sometimes, I don’t want a BECSPK as my first meal when I land in the city. This is when the Cafe shines for me.
I like being one of the first people waiting outside with a coffee, patiently waiting to snag a counter seat and enjoy some lox and pickles and a cup of coffee, each savory bite pulling my soul back to where I need to be.
We visited Russ & Daughters Cafe for lunch while exploring the area around Orchard Street, having heard a lot about the brand and its reputation across New York.
Thankfully there was no queue when we arrived, so we were seated quite quickly. The atmosphere was one of the standout parts of the experience — relaxed yet refined, with a soft Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic. The cream and light blue tones gave the space a calm, slightly luxurious feel without being overly formal.
Service throughout was friendly and efficient.
We started with the potato latkes with cream cheese and salmon roe, which were excellent. The texture reminded me somewhat of a very elevated hash brown — crisp on the outside, soft inside, with a rich potato and onion flavour. The cream cheese added richness, while the salmon roe brought bursts of saltiness that balanced the dish really well.
I also ordered the spinach eggs Benedict, which unfortunately was more average. The hollandaise sauce was light, but the overall dish lacked the richness and boldness you’d expect from a great eggs Benedict. The eggs themselves also felt fairly standard in quality, especially compared to versions I’ve had in London and Australia.
The drinks, however, were genuinely memorable. The pickled carrot juice was fantastic — sharp, slightly vinegary, refreshing, and surprisingly addictive. The classic egg cream was also very enjoyable, almost like a light chocolate milkshake with a soda-like texture.
Overall, it was a very enjoyable lunch with some unique dishes and drinks that lived up to the hype, even if not every element was exceptional.
Absolutely very delicious. The cafe is small not like other big brunch or breakfast restaurants but it is cozy. The service was fast. We were there around like 9 ish so we had a table avaible right away but when we were leaving they were people waiting for table. So better to get there early. We got the eggs florentine type dish with salmon added on top. It was really tasty and salmon tasted so good. Also we got fresh orange juice. Definitely will be back to try other items on the menu. The prices are a bit high but due to using good ingredients. So that should be ok 🙂
Excellent brunch spot in NYC with beautiful tables and a great atmosphere to enjoy a meal. The ingredients are top quality and everything tasted amazing. I really appreciated that they were accommodating and allowed me to order everything without butter and customize my dish. The staff was super kind, attentive, and always willing to help. Great music as well. We will definitely be coming back!
Fossetta
| Address | 198 Allen St, New York, NY 10002 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (646) 430-1249 |
I am SO shocked at just how incredible my meal at Fossetta was!
This spot is tiny and unassuming but had some of the best food and drinks I’ve had. The Ida’s Cure cocktail is basically a strawberry lemon drop martini and is a must-order. To eat, they have a great selection of Focaccias to try - the classic olive oil & sea salt and the ricotta & hot honey are both fabulous with very different flavor profiles.
I believe their menu is updated and it NEEDS to stay as is, because their pastas were to die for: the rigatoni vodka is actually some of the best I’ve had in the city which is BIG because I have high standards, and their londa alla primavera was so flavorful and full of veggies.
Fossetta truly exceeded my expectations!
Me and my girlfriends had an amazing brunch today here, the focaccia was incredible (and I’m Italian, so I hope the compliment is appreciated!) and our server Jada was really nice. I look forward to come back!
the lasagna was so good, had really great flavor. the pepperoni and mozzarella focaccia was also good, it’s like a mini pizza. the focaccia was a bit dense though. the calamari was just fine, had a nice light fry but was a bit tough.
popped in for Sunday brunch and it was a great place to set up camp before popping to shops in the LES. great light trickles in during the afternoon, I highly recommend coming here on a sunny day. although, i was sitting by the window and there was gross roof water dripping on me the whole time.
the hot honey ricotta focaccia was delish -- leaned more savory than sweet.
the burger was sadly overcooked. I asked for medium rare and i got it medium / medium well but the fries were ... amazing.
we ordered a few items-the hot honey focaccia was the only one that stood out. we ordered the pepperoni focaccia and received it after the other dishes were done since they forgot to add it on before. it came out and i had to spit out my bite; it was raw and fully tasted like floury dough. they said there was a cream under the cheese but trust me, that was not cream. didn’t really like how they handled the situation since it felt like they tried to gaslight us.
Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner
| Address | 548 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10016 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 679-0442 |
What a great discovery. It was an amazing meal… a lot of typical food and high quality. We were scared about the prices, but portions are huge. It is definitely worth it.
The Pastrami Reuben was amazing. Tuna melt delicious.
Service was friendly and on point.
We had great time and we will definitely go back for more.
I think this place is much better than Katz in terms of quality, and portion size. The only thing that should be improved is the service quality. I think the restaurant should hire more waiters. My two cents
Other than that both corn beef and pastrami were delicious. As others mentioned, the portions are quite large. So watch out before you order multiple items.
It’s definitely not a tourist trap... I would say it’s a must-visit in New York!!!
If you go here, be patient because the lines could be very long... we waited about 40 minutes and we had to divide our group to eat. The place is very small. But believe me, once you’re eating the pastrami sandwich or the brisket sandwich, you’ll not be hangry anymore… they’re AMAZING.
We also have the cheesecake, but i think it’s a little dry, maybe smaller portions would be better.
What would be great is that they worked with reservations, so you don’t have to wait so long. I think it would be better for the most active days. Also, some option with the sandwich with double meat with cheese would be great... if that option is available, I will be depressed…
AMAZING food!!! The best Reuben I have ever had. Extremely tender corned beef piled high on top of buttery bread, nice layer of cheese, and a big side of Russian dressing. THE PERFECT REUBEN ♥️♥️. vidited on a Thursday and was able to be seated right away. Customer service was nice and food came out quickly. Portion sizes were very large and worth the money. Also a large dessert counter so that you can finish the meal on a sweet note.
This place has the kind of charm that’s getting harder to find these days. Friendly people, a relaxed vibe, and an authentic New York feel from the moment you walk in. It was a memorable stop during my trip, and I left with a great impression. Definitely worth a visit.
Panineria - Greenwich Village
| Address | 9 E 8th St, New York, NY 10003 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (917) 388-3257 |
Stopped by this wonderful spot after work. Had the Rosa Pasta with Chicken and the Super Mario Sandwich (one of the BEST sandwiches I’ve ever had!) along with a Nutella cappuccino. Absolutely worth the trip and definitely will return 😁
As soon as he walked in the front door. We were welcomed with amazing energy, and we felt part of the family instantly. we went with the chefs choice. with the chicken Parm in a fresh Americano with roasted turkey organic tomatoes in organic, freshly sliced mozzarella. And the top it all off to cannolis. Definitely you would give this place 100 stars every time the staff is friendly. The music is entertaining great great great atmosphere.
Didn’t love any of the dishes. You can find much better Italian spots in the city and west village specifically.
We ordered the eggplant parm sandwich and the truffle mushroom rigatoni.
It is also a tight space, they have only a couple of tables.
I thankfully found this spot while walking around.
It is very cozy and the food is very tasty!
Had a sandwich with prosciutto and a Caesar salad, it was all spot on!
Friendly staff, high quality, reasonable prices... Can't ask for more!
good vibes and great food! the atmosphere is great and intimate, and the service is full of care!! our servers liza and elena were so on top of everything and took great care of us, they’re such a fun vibe and from the cooks to the servers, everyone really puts in effort to what they do
2nd Ave Deli
| Address | 162 E 33rd St, New York, NY 10016 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 689-9000 |
Finally got to try 2nd Ave Deli. It’s a classic old-school kosher deli with a nostalgic New York atmosphere, and the portions are definitely generous. The complimentary pickles and coleslaw were a nice touch, and the sandwiches are absolutely packed with meat.
That said, I can see why reviews are mixed. The corned beef and pastrami were decent, but I wasn’t blown away considering the price (around $28–$30 for a sandwich). The meat was tender, but the flavor wasn’t as memorable as I expected from a deli with such a long reputation. The bread was also pretty basic and didn’t add much to the experience.
Service was fine, and the restaurant has an authentic deli vibe, but overall it didn’t quite live up to the hype for me. It’s not the best deli I’ve had, but it’s definitely not the worst either. If you’re curious about a traditional kosher deli experience, it’s worth trying once.
There aren’t very many places like this left in Manhattan. An old-school deli with all the classics - corned beef, pastrami, matzah ball soup and plenty of other appetizing options.
The ambience is old-fashioned and charming, with wooden booths and a hammered tin ceiling. The service is friendly enough.
The star of the show is the food. The pastrami here is outstanding. The soups and salads are wonderful, and they have many delicious Jewish delicacies.
In sum, this is a charming Manhattan institution with excellent food, but without the crowds of some of the more touristy spots. Highly recommended.
After trying their pastrami & brisket sandwich. I know now that KATX is the number one sandwich place in the world. The 2nd Street deli sandwich is just ok., nothing special. I paid almost $60 for this. Not that good.Katz is the best.
Their pastrami is still one of the best, almost on par with Katz. But the ambiance is way superior to Katz so the dining experience is better. The sandwiches we ordered were: pastrami, corned beef and lox. For the lox we were given tofu based cream cheese (Jewish dietary law forbids mixing meat and dairy for a meal) which was just as good as regular cream cheese. Next time the tongue sandwich.
Just go... the experience, the flavors, the friendly staff is more than worth your time and money. Tip, save your waist line split a sandwich and definitely order a soup. You won't regret it!
Stage Door Delicatessen
| Address | 26 Vesey St 1st Floor, New York, NY 10007 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 4:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 4:30 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 791-5252 |
My daughter and I looked for some breakfast places in FiDi. I had ate at the pizzeria upstairs but not the deli. We decided on this deli because the menu was so full. A lot of the places in the area have some breakfast items but not a full menu. The food was fantastic. We were floored that the strawberry cream cheese had actual strawberries. Eggs were perfectly over medium. The potatoes reminded me of the ones my dad used to make when I was growing up! Such nostalgia! The place wasn’t super busy. We ordered, walked to register to pay, and food was ready. Great prices. The service was impeccable. Everyone was super friendly and personable. Made us feel like friends and not just customers. Well worth a visit for good food, great prices and friendly service!
Very surprised by how good the food is. One of the biggest à la carte menu I’ve ever seen, and by such a small kitchen. The spot has been a NYC staple since 1966. Now my go-to spot for a healthy and delicious meal that hit the spot that won’t break the bank.
This is a hidden gem in the financial district. The pizza shop upstairs is the real deal. Their slices are thin, crispy, and packed with flavor. They have great, doughy garlic knots too. Considering the location, prices are pretty reasonable as well.
Grabbed a proper NYC deli breakfast whilst exploring lower manhattan, steak and eggs was great.
Staff were great, wonderful friendly service.
Cheap and easy setup for good value quick food not a premium dining experience.
As soon as we walked in, they directed us where to order and pay. I got a bagel with strawberry cream cheese (I think it was plain cream cheese with strawberry puree and it was delicious). I picked up a banana and juice too, and it was under $10. We ate in and it was very comfortable in there. Would highly recommend. We went around 8:30am on a Saturday and it wasn’t busy.
Travelers Poets & Friends
| Address | 457 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 420-0057 |
Love this place so much!! The meatballs, carbonara, mortadella sandwich and gelato (vanilla/strawberry) were all amazing and Jackie, our server, was also fantastic! This was our first time going for brunch (we usually go for dinner), but we’ll definitely be back. I also love that they’re a seed oil free establishment, use a lot of homemade, local, and fresh ingredients, and only Italian flour in their breads and pastas.
What a sweet little place!!
We were headed to Greenwich Village and hadn’t really eaten breakfast. We definitely wanted coffee, and we were eager to get some sort of baked good. T, P, & F has been on my list for a while and seemed like it would fit the bill, so we decided to give it a try.
When we first got there there we were whisked into a pretty deserted part of the otherwise bustling restaurant, so I wasn’t sure what the make of that. After sitting there for a few minutes, though, it seemed that our section was more used for patrons who were leisurely lunching, while the first side was more solo diners and people who were grabbing a quick bite.
They had several prix fixe lunch specials that sounded good, but we had early dinner plans and didn’t want to eat too much. We ordered cappuccini, a fennel salad, a roast beef sandwich, and a pistachio rigatoni, all to share.
While we waited on our meal they brought a basket of warm bread and focaccia—both which were soft and delicious. Our meal was really good, too. My favorite was definitely the pistachio pesto pasta—a nice blend of fresh pasta, mint leaves, and crunchy pistachios.
Our server, Benny, as well as the gentleman who helped with service, were both very kind and personable, and by the time we left it felt like these traveling poets were on our way to new friendships!
what a delightful spot for dinner! Behrouz (photographed) was a hoot and a half, so charming and gave us great menu recommendations. the spring salad was bright and fresh. if they have the eggplantparm was stunning! a dish that will have me coming back. the pastas were delicious, the bucatini was the best ive had and was served table side. highly recommend!
Travelers Poets & Friends is definitely one of my favorite Italian restaurants! I love all their pasta. The Pappardelle bolognese's wide pasta is so tender and allows the bolognese to attach to it, making every bite enjoyable. I also love the Rigatoni al pistacchio — the pistachio paste is very nutty, thick, dense, and aromatic. Their special dish - toast with ricotta cheese cream is yummy, and the indoor environment is very cozy and Italian. The only improvement would be the traffic flow, as people sometimes may bump into each other but it's already a spacious place. Everything is great and highly recommended! Service was also top-notch - attentive and friendly.
Traveler’s Poets & Friends – A Birthday Dinner to Remember!
We celebrated a very special birthday dinner at Traveler’s Poets & Friends in New York – and it could not have been more perfect! The food was absolutely delicious, the service was attentive and warm, and the atmosphere was simply lovely. Everything came together beautifully to make the evening truly unforgettable.
If you’re looking for the perfect spot for a special occasion in New York, look no further. Highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Taste of Katz's
| Address | 1 Dekalb Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 254-2246 |
Great place!! It lives up to the hype. The food was of high quality and super tasty. The prices are hight but the amounts of food that you receive is compensation. The staff is working hard and still friendly at the same time. I would recommend going lil bit earlier because it gets packed. One of the best menu items is the pastrami but also other products/sandwiches are fabulous.
Really enjoyed the food but then while paying, the server asked No tip sir. I might be wrong on this one but people shouldn’t be asked for tips. If someone wants to pay that should be on their discretion. I also understand these people work hard but if such place is jam packed and they are making a lot of money then why aren’t they paying this employees well? It shouldn’t be customers responsibility to take care of that specially when you are paying a lot for a Sandwich. Really enjoyed the Sandwich but coz of the server asking for tip, it ruined the experience for me. To the owner please pay your employees well as a customer I am comfortable with knowing what is the final price I would be paying.
A Taste of Katz’s — Hopefully the Last Outpost They Ever Open
I recently started working in Brooklyn and had DeKalb Market Hall on my radar. Dozens of excellent choices under one roof, but the first place you encounter walking in is A Taste of Katz’s.
Jackpot!
I am a relentless foodie who has had OG Katz’s firmly atop my must-try list since arriving in New York several months ago. I am also an absolute sucker for a “hot” pastrami with Swiss—let me tell you, the anticipation of chomping into this legendary sandwich was real.
They say, sometimes it’s better to not meet your heroes.
The first thing that hits you is the $28 price tag for this bad boy! It felt less like ordering lunch and more like a hostage negotiation where the hostage was my wallet. I have paid less in situations that technically qualified as extortion.
First sign that something was rotten in Denmark.
Next, the person who took my order greeted me with all the warmth of a DMV employee late on a Friday afternoon. I have seen Roombas with more personality.
Houston Street, we have a problem here.
The sandwich arrived and I pulled apart the wax paper to an offering that was well below room temperature, which for pastrami specifically borders on criminal.
The meat was tasty but a bit dry and nothing phenomenal. There was no moment. No revelation. Just a lukewarm pile of meat that had clearly given up on itself somewhere between the slicer and the hero roll.
Nail in the coffin.
Side note: The pickle that accompanied my meal had apparently never been introduced to the concept of pickling. It was basically a soggy cucumber in denial. 🤦🏻
I ate half and handed the rest to a hungry soul on the way out.
For a place as legendary and iconic as Katz’s to sanction this level of mediocre product under their name is downright ridiculous.
So very disappointed…
I went to the Katz’s Deli pop-up in Chicago expecting the famous, generously filled sandwich they advertise. Instead, I received what looked like half a sandwich with barely enough meat to fill even that half. The photos speak for themselves.
For the price they charged, this felt like an absolute ripoff. A deli built on its reputation for enormous pastrami sandwiches should be embarrassed to serve a portion this small while charging customers as though they received the real Katz’s experience. This was not a minor inconsistency. It was a completely unacceptable product that did not resemble what was promised.
If this business has any integrity, they should refund my money. Customers should not have to pay premium prices and then discover that the actual serving is a hollowed-out imitation of what was advertised. I left feeling cheated, disappointed, and genuinely shocked that they were comfortable handing this across the counter.
I came here to compare to montreals smoked meat. Boy was i disappointed as it was not even close to it. Very dry meat to the point I kept putting mustard on it and even the bread was stail and very very expensive. The place is a crazy tourist trap and the amount of people was insane. So my new York friends your sandwich does not come close to our montreal sandwich.
Cafe Katja
| Address | 79 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 219-9545 |
Stopped by here to watch a World Cup game! There are indoor and outdoor TVs set up and lots of outdoor seating. The HH deal is great from noon-5pm for both food and drinks. I loved the fried chicken and the Katja Margarita! A great place to meet with a group of friends
Well this place was a blast. So glad we finally made it here for Spargel season! Had the asparagus with the wienerschnitzel, but also got a side of hollandaise because someone said the asparagus and hollandaise were the best most classic pairing, and they were totally right. Also got the cheese sausage, which was great, and the veggie spaetzle, which was probably the most meh of the lot. For dessert, we almost got the strudel, but our server said they preferred the Palatschinken, and, yeah, they knew what they were talking about. Probably my favourite dish of the night. Looking forward to coming back here with an even bigger group!
It was good. I thought overpriced. And didn’t blow my mind.
The outdoor seating in the summer is really nice.
The server was kinda rude.
I liked the liver patte!!
this place was everything we wanted and more when it comes to good food and atmosphere. definitely try to sit outside when the weather is nice. it’s the perfect spot for people watching and catching up with drinks and food. we tried the gulash soup (tasted great and very similar to consume), wiener schnitzel (gigantic and tasty), and the emmentaler sausage (delicious). will be coming back soon.
Easy going bar @ Village, NY. Exactly this atmosphere is what you get around Orchard st, a great area for walks and to get the feeling of Village. Great cocktails, especially the old fashioned but not extended list... Typical NY place for a drink.
Russ & Daughters
| Address | 179 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 475-4880 |
Great tasty bagels , variety of cream cheese and best smoke salmon. Today i tried the pastrami smoke salmon and everything bagel. With veggie cream cheese (to go ) all were as always fresh and delicious. The staff is helpful and welcoming. They have a nice positive attitude. It is on Houston street for many many years. Good to see the places that takes you memories.
Good smoked salmon, but overpriced and underwhelming bagels. I wanted to love this iconic Lower East Side spot, but it didn't live up to the massive hype or the crazy expensive price tag. I ordered the classic lox sandwich on an everything bagel with plain cream cheese, capers, and onions.
The highlights and letdowns:
• The Smoked Fish: The salmon itself was really good and high quality.
• The Bagel: Super small and nothing to rave about. If you prefer a traditional, fluffy, and chewy New York bagel, you will be disappointed here.
• The Toppings: The plain cream cheese, capers, and onions were totally standard. Nothing special to justify the premium cost.
Maybe switching to a scallion cream cheese would add more flavor, but it wouldn't change my mind on the overall value. The flavor was decent, but it is simply not worth going out of your way for when there are so many other amazing NYC bagel shops. Great fish, but way overpriced for a basic sandwich. ($20 for a little sandwich with decent flavor)
We went directly here after eating at the Cafe because I had my heart set on an onion bagel, and possibly a garlic bagel. The Cafe didn't have either option but I needed them in my life. So we walked over right after. Super cute small spot. Beautiful smoked fish in the cases, amazing cream cheese options. I so wanted the caviar cream cheese, but we just ate and we were gonna be walking around for a few hours. So I got 2 onion and 2 garlic bagels. They thought we was nuts not wanting anything done with them. Like I said I just needed them gonna enjoy it tomorrow morning as our Great American Road Trip continues to Boston. Personally next time.. I'd go to this original location, more variety, of bagels and cream cheese, but no seating. So pick what works for you but definitely Go! 100% recommend.
The bagels is really good. We got to try the suer heebster. It's surprisingly good, wasabi roe is not too strong. If you want to sit down and eat there're two benches in front of the store, we'd recommend going to their cafe, a few blocks away
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ATTENTION, can I please get your attention!!! If you live in or are visiting New York City, do NOT skip Russ & Daughters—this is not just a bagel shop, this is a true NYC institution and an experience you’ll remember long after your last bite.
The moment you walk in, you feel the legacy. This place has been doing it right for generations, and you can taste that history in every single detail. The bagels are perfectly fresh—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—exactly how a New York bagel should be. And let’s talk about the smoked salmon… absolutely unreal. Rich, silky, flavorful, and sliced to perfection. Pair that with their cream cheese and you’ve got a combination that’s honestly hard to beat anywhere in the country.
What really stands out is the consistency and quality. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, they deliver every single time. The menu has so many options, but even sticking to the classics feels like a luxury here. You can tell they take pride in what they do, and it shows in every bite.
The staff keeps things moving while still being welcoming and knowledgeable, which is exactly what you want in a busy NYC spot. There’s an energy inside that just feels right—like you’re part of something iconic.
If you’re a local, this should already be in your regular rotation. And if you’re visiting, put this at the TOP of your list. This is the kind of place that defines the food culture of the city.
Bottom line—this isn’t just breakfast, it’s a NYC tradition.
Russ & Daughters did it again… 5 stars all day, every day! 🔥🙌
Gotham Burger Social Club
| Address | 131 Essex St, New York, NY 10002 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
If you’re looking for a tasty, juicy smashburger, this is the place. The burgers are flavorful, and I’m not sure if the buns are made in house, but they were fresh and lightly toasted. We opted to get the loaded tots which were good, but I’d get the plain if I ordered again. The staff was friendly and service was speedy. Really great burger!
Gotham Burger on the Lower East Side absolutely lived up to the hype. We came on a Sunday around 7 p.m. for their famous smash burgers. There wasn’t a line when we arrived, but I appreciated how organized everything was. A doorman managed the flow of guests, directing everyone to order first before being seated, which kept the restaurant running smoothly.
The restaurant is a good size with plenty of seating. We sat at the kitchen bar, which was a fun experience because we got to watch the cooks prepare the food. They worked incredibly fast, and our order was ready in less than 10 minutes.
I ordered the classic smash burger with all the toppings, along with fried pickles, fries, onion rings, and a couple of their secret sauces on the side (which do cost extra). I also tried the canned spicy margarita. It was light and refreshing with a noticeable spicy kick—just enough heat without being overpowering.
The burger completely met my expectations. It was juicy, flavorful, and easily one of the best smash burgers I’ve had in New York City. The fried pickles were the biggest surprise of the meal. They were perfectly crispy on the outside with a soft, almost creamy interior that made them unlike any fried pickles I’ve had before. The onion rings were also very good, while the fries were pretty standard. Looking back, we probably over-ordered and could have skipped either the fries or the onion rings.
Overall, this is a casual spot with excellent food, efficient service, and a well-organized system. If you’re looking for one of the best smash burgers in NYC, Gotham Burger Social Club is absolutely worth the visit. I’ll definitely be back.
Love this place! They have hella motion though so you have to be kinda ready to wait. The table turnover is quick though so it wasn’t that bad. The price is solid and the burgers are phenomenal📈
Gotham Burger Socal Club never misses! The burgers are always perfect, and the service is absolutely outstanding. They seat you, check in on you, and genuinely make sure you're taken care of I had mentioned that I wanted tater tots with my order, but they were accidentally left off. No big deal-I had plenty of food anyway. When I asked the worker about it, he confirmed they hadn't been added, and I told him not to worry about it. To my surprise, he still brought me an order of tater tots and told me it was on him. That's what I call above-and-beyond service. Great food, great people, and an experience that keeps me
coming back!
They serve up one of the best smash burgers we’ve ever had — so good we went back for seconds. If you’re in NYC and craving a proper smash burger, this is the place to go.
S&P Lunch
| Address | 174 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 691-8862 |
This is the simple but excellent dining experience of NYC. The counter seating, counter cooking, buzzing with staff, everyone helpful and engaging. It’s simply welcoming and comfortable then you get a super flavorful meal at a great cost with healthy portions. It’s a super quick fix. Don’t pass without trying it.
Delicious food and a great brunch spot after going to the bath house with the bros. The shop has a rich history and is reasonably priced for the area. The pastrami was top tier here and the fries were so yummy. Will be coming back!
One of my favorite breakfast spots in all of NYC. The best time to get is right after they open on a weekday morning. Grab a seat at the counter and eat up. Absorb the vibes of one of the OGs of the NYC diner scene.
The Shonda sandwich (pastrami, egg, green tomatoes, mustard) and corned beef hash are excellent. I only order the rye bread, which is (literally) the best I've ever had and delivered fresh from a top-notch bakery in NJ every morning. Service is always prompt and friendly. Can't recommend this place enough.
Great spot for a late lunch, we arrived shortly before closing without realising but staff were able to accommodate us.
Delicious food, great atmosphere and enjoyed the 60s music selection.
Thought meal was good value.
I thought this place was so delicious. Kind of pricey but that’s New York. I got the flat iron delight and the macaroni salad. Service was very friendly and efficient. Hands-down, I would go back again.
Love from New Orleans
Tips for Dining Near Katz’s Delicatessen
Navigating the Lower East Side dining scene requires a bit of strategy, especially during peak hours. The neighborhood is densely populated, and the best spots fill up quickly with both locals and tourists. To help you maximize your time and minimize stress, we have compiled a few essential tips for planning your meals in this historic district.
Plan for the line at Katz’s. If you plan to eat at Katz’s before your next meal, note that the line moves fast but can still take 20–30 minutes on weekends. Give yourself a buffer of at least an hour between your Katz’s visit and your next reservation to avoid rushing.
Make reservations when possible. While some spots in the area are walk-in only, many of the higher-end restaurants take reservations weeks in advance. If you have your heart set on a specific trendy spot, book a table as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.
Explore side streets for hidden gems. The main drags of Houston and Ludlow are busy, but the magic often happens on streets like Orchard, Rivington, and Stanton. Walking just one block away from the main intersection can lead you to quieter, more romantic, and often more authentic dining rooms.
Be mindful of cash-only policies. Although credit cards are widely accepted now, a few old-school institutions in the Lower East Side still operate on a cash-only basis. Always check the payment policy online or bring a small amount of cash just in case.
Consider dining at off-peak hours. To avoid the crush of the dinner rush, try eating lunch at 11:30 AM or dinner at 5:30 PM. You will get better service, a quieter atmosphere, and often a faster table without a reservation.
The Lower East Side remains one of the most exciting places to eat in the United States because it refuses to stay static. While the history of the neighborhood is always present in its architecture and legacy businesses, the food scene continues to evolve. Whether you are craving a classic bowl of matzo ball soup or a modern plate of handmade pasta, you are standing in the right spot.
After you have finished exploring the area, you will likely find that the hardest part is not finding a good meal, but choosing which one to try next. The beauty of dining near Katz’s is that you are never more than a few blocks away from your next favorite dish.
