Kosher Classics Bring the Meat

The high holy days are upon us, which means it’s time to find the freshest nova, bagels, and matzoh ball soup New York has to offer. Those craving their mother’s cooking can be reassured: Manhattan is home to some of the greatest kosher delis in the world, and it would be a waste not to take advantage!

Katz’s Delicatessen

Established as a family delicatessen on the lower east side of Manhattan, Katz’s has become one of the most well-known and reputable delis in New York over the past century. Throughout the early 20th century, Katz’s was the staple for a lively community of Jewish immigrants on the Lower East Side. Its popularity was largely derived from its ability to create “Old World” flavors, which were meant to imitate the foods of central Europe. Today, Katz’s remains famous for its incredibly generous and fresh portions of deli meats in every sandwich. And I’m not using the term “generous” loosely—you can expect over a pound of meat on every sandwich you order. Katz’s also boasts having “New York’s Best Cheesecake.” Though it’s a claim that is heard way too often from most everywhere that serves cheesecake, Katz’s might actually claim the title—theirs is moist and fresh, and the servings are predictably huge. Everything about the place is simple, but it’s proudly rooted in its history: if you choose sit-down service, you may even get a European history lesson from your waiter.

Katz’s is located on 205 E. Houston St. (between 1st and 2nd avenue) and is open from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. every day except Fridays.

Stage Deli and Restaurant, Inc.

Located in Midtown, Stage Deli’s façade blends right in with the kitsch and glamour typical of midtown. The food at Stage, however, is not cheap and tasteless. Founded in 1937 by a Russian-Jewish immigrant, Stage Deli rose to gastronomic fame for offering the freshest American versions of dishes from Russia, including blintzes, smoked fish, and thick loaves of Russian rye bread. It’s a regular stop for actors and frequenters of New York’s theatre district who enjoy the artful mix of old world comfort and New York style. Appetizers in particular are true to the Deli’s European roots, and include incredibly fresh offerings of borscht, stuffed derma, and kasha varnishkas (a noodle dish with buckwheat groats). Other highly recommended and widely acclaimed dishes include the cheese blintzes and smoked fish platters. Stage is also famous for employing waiters who want to break into show business, so don’t be surprised if your meal comes with a song or dramatic monologue.

Stage is located on 834 7th Ave. (between 53rd and 54th) and is open daily from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Sarge’s Deli and Restaurant

Sarge’s is a well respected deli, and arguably the best one on Manhattan’s east side (it’s also a little bit easier on a student budget). Founded in 1964 by former police Sergeant Abe Katz (known more popularly as Sarge), Sarge’s proudly wears the badge of the “NYPD” (New York’s Premier Delicatessen). Unlike many exceptional delis, Sarge’s is open 24-7, so even though it’s a bit of a schlep, it could be the place to satisfy your 3 a.m. knish craving. Sarge’s is still family-owned and operated (Sarge’s grandson, Michael, currently oversees the deli), and while it may not have the age and legacy of Katz’s or Stage, it has certainly been recognized as one of New York’s best delis. In a blind taste test conducted by the French Culinary Institute, Sarge’s corned beef and pastrami were pronounced two of the best of the five deli cuts in the city. Sarge’s other big winners include noodle kugel, potato pancakes, and some of the best ruggelach that can be found anywhere.

Sarge’s is located at 548 3rd Ave. (between 36th and 37th) and is open 24/7.