Throwdown: Carnegie Deli vs. Second Avenue Deli
The Carnegie Deli is an attraction all on its own. According to the New York Convention and Visitors Bureau it is one of the most visited restaurants in Manhattan. But why? Yes, the pastrami sandwiches are bigger than your head…. but are they really worth the $15 price tag? Or the fact that you will wait at least 30 minutes before being seated? Or the extra-surly service that is always included? I really believe that the Carnegie Deli is like Paris Hilton… famous for being famous.
In my opinion, any deli that has opened branches in Las Vegas at the Luxor Hotel and at a theme park in New Jersey is no longer a true New York deli. So, if you’re looking for that authentic New deli experience, grab a sandwich at the one of New York’s original Kosher delis, Second Avenue Deli.
Started by Abe Lebewohl in 1954, this Manhattan institution closed a couple years ago due to high rents but then reopened in a new Midtown location just this December. New Yorkers can breathe a collective sigh of relief that they can once again get all of the menu favorites such as pastrami and corned beef piled high on rye and matzo ball soup. The new Second Avenue Deli, still owned by the local Lebewohl family, has made a few improvements: it now boasts a full bar and new hours– 24 hours a day!
Location: 162 E 33rd St (between Lexington and Third Avenue) (map) 212-689-9000
Subway: 6 train to 33rd Street
Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week
Photo Credit: flickr
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2 Comments
YES YES YES. 2nd Ave is the BEST
Living here in this vast wasteland of watered down “deli’s” and “authentic New York sandwiches” I really need to know that a place like Second Avenue truly exists. Minneapolis and St. Paul could use a lesson in tradition, yes a true sandwich and a real slice of pizza!! If you have knowledge of either or both within a hundred mile radius for G-Ds sake let us know.