Ресторан · New York · ⭐ 9.1/10 · 53717 reviews · $$ · updated: 2026-06-30 19:08:16
Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002, United States
Katz’s Delicatessen: The Deli That Taught New York to Eat
Some restaurants serve food; a very few serve identity. Since 1888 this Lower East Side institution has been the standard against which every delicatessen on the planet is measured — and the room where one of cinema’s most quoted scenes was filmed, at a table now marked with its own sign.
History
It began as a small immigrant deli when Yiddish was the language of the block, took the Katz name in the early twentieth century and never left. During World War II the house slogan “Send a salami to your boy in the Army” entered American folklore, and in 1989 “When Harry Met Sally” turned the dining room into a pilgrimage site — Estelle Reiner’s “I’ll have what she’s having” was delivered right here.
What to Order
The pastrami is a genuine craft product: whole cuts cured for three to four weeks, smoked low and slow for days, steamed and carved only by hand — a machine would crumble it. Order it on rye with deli mustard. Corned beef, matzo ball soup, potato latkes and knishes complete the canon; finish with rugelach or New York cheesecake and a chocolate egg cream.
The Space
Nothing here has been designed, and that is precisely the charm: a vast hall of formica tables, neon signage, hanging salamis and a century of famous faces on the walls. The clatter of trays and the theater of cutters working the long counter are the décor.
Who It’s For
Food pilgrims, families showing children the old New York, and anyone who understands that a perfect sandwich can be a destination in itself.
Good to Know
Can I book a table? No reservations — the ticket-at-the-door system has worked since before booking apps existed, and the line moves faster than it looks.
What is the difference between pastrami and corned beef? Both start as cured beef; pastrami is additionally spiced and smoked. Order both and settle the debate at the table.
Is there anything for vegetarians? Options are limited but real: latkes, knishes, soups, salads and the legendary desserts.
Can Katz’s ship food to another city? Yes — pastrami, salami and gift boxes ship nationwide, a tradition dating back to the Army-salami days.
Is it good for kids? Very — hot dogs, the sampling ritual at the counter and the happy chaos usually win children over instantly.
Opening hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 08:00–23:00 |
| Tuesday | 08:00–23:00 |
| Wednesday | 08:00–23:00 |
| Thursday | 08:00–23:00 |
| Friday | 08:00–23:30 |
| Saturday | Відкрито 24 години |
| Sunday | 00:00–23:00 |
Photos
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Visitor reviews
Reviews last updated: 2026-06-30 19:08:16
Data is refreshed monthly. Sources: manhattanka.com and editorial picks based on reviews.
We loved everything — the sandwich, the pickles and the hustle of picking up your order! Even standing in line was fun! I recommend everyone visit Katz's diner at least once!
The sandwiches are simply super. The meat melts in your mouth. The atmosphere is that classic America from the movies. The line is very long but it's worth it. A must-visit!
We got lucky, we didn't even have to wait in line. A wonderful, atmospheric place with delicious food ❤️
This is out of this world! The pastrami is tender and delicious! The Reuben sandwich is incredible! The portion of meat in the sandwich exceeds any expectation.
Very tasty meat! I had the turkey, it was juicy and very tasty, my friends tried 2 more kinds of meat and they were thrilled, but the smell in the place is an acquired taste. The atmosphere is nice, it's crowded, but you…