Top 14 Must-Visit Delis in the U.S.

The classic American deli is famous for its high-quality food and large portions. Whether you want Jewish, Polish, or Italian deli foods, this list has the best places for what you’re craving. Luckily for you , we’ve included both long-established delis and some newer ones in our list of some of the best delis in America.

Taste World Famous Deli Options in the U.S.

Craving for something unique and special? Our guide will give you an idea of the best delicatessens you must try in America when you go on a solo or group trip!

Zingerman’s in Ann Arbor, Michigan

After growing for over thirty years, Zingerman’s has become more than just one place—it’s a small empire. The chef at Zingerman’s Roadhouse even won a prestigious James Beard award in 2011. However, the core of Zingerman’s is still its downtown deli, famous for its fantastic range of sandwiches and Jewish comfort foods.

Barney Greengrass in New York City

People come early for brunch at this popular Jewish deli on the Upper West Side. Bring a newspaper and join the crowd. The expertly sliced Nova salmon is delicious, both mixed into scrambled eggs with onions and served on top of a perfect bagel with cream cheese.

Wise Sons Jewish Delicatessen in San Francisco

What started in 2010 as deli dinner gatherings by owners Evan Bloom and Leo Beckerman for their friends has now expanded into three locations. They serve traditional dishes like chopped liver and matzo ball soup, as well as comfort food like a bialy with lox and Sierra Nevada cream cheese.

Canter’s Deli in Los Angeles

Famous for being open 24 hours a day (except on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur), this L.A. landmark offers traditional Jewish deli favorites and an excellent Monte Cristo sandwich on toasted challah with powdered sugar. Don’t leave without checking out the bakery counter for chocolate babka or rugelach.

2nd Avenue Deli in New York City

The well-known 2nd Avenue Deli has actually been on 33rd Street since 2007. However, its dedication to kosher food hasn’t changed. You’ll find all the classic dishes, still as delicious as always. Notably, they offer a sandwich called the Instant Heart Attack, which stacks meat between two potato pancakes — it’s like the Jewish take on KFC’s Double Down.

Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City

Every time someone talks about Katz’s, they have to mention the scene from “When Harry Met Sally” where Meg Ryan sat (there’s even a sign above that seat). But what really brings people in is the freshly cut pastrami, which has been a favorite for generations. Make sure to get your pastrami sandwich on rye bread, grab as many types of pickles as you can get from the counter person, and if you’re a true fan, wash it all down with a can of Dr. Brown’s Cel-Ray soda.

Nate ‘n Al’s in Beverly Hills

Nate ‘n Al’s, a deli in upscale Beverly Hills, prides itself on high-quality ingredients. This family-run shop, which opened in 1945, is famous for its hot dogs. Many customers claim these quarter-pound hot dogs are the best in the country.

Mile End in Brooklyn

This small but popular spot, often called “hipster,” opened in 2010. Owner Noah Bernamoff, originally from Montreal and also co-owner of a bagel shop, is dedicated to maintaining traditional Jewish deli values. Canadian dishes like smoked meat and poutine are the top sellers, but the menu also includes various types of Reuben sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and other deli classics.

Manny’s Coffee Shop & Deli in Chicago

Back in 2008, shortly after his election win, then President-elect Barack Obama visited this place and bought three corned beef sandwiches and two cherry pies. It was a great choice at this famous local spot known for its huge sandwiches (which contain nearly a pound of meat) and delicious golden latkes.

Gene’s Sausage Shop & Delicatessen in Chicago

If you’re one of the most well-known sausage shops in Chicago, a city that loves its sausages, you’re definitely doing something right. At Gene’s, the Polish-style knockwursts, Krakowska, and other sausages are all excellent. But what really makes it a must-visit spot is the rooftop beer garden, where they grill brats over live fire.

Langer’s Delicatessen in Los Angeles

Langer’s sticks to the traditional Jewish deli style but does it exceptionally well. Their most famous dish is the #19 sandwich, which is hot pastrami, coleslaw, and Swiss cheese on rye bread. It’s so good that writer Nora Ephron praised it in the New Yorker.

Kenny and Ziggy’s in Houston

It’s no surprise that smoked-meat experts in Texas would excel at making pastrami. Ziggy Gruber, who had experience with delis on both the east and west coasts, brought his expertise to Houston. Along with great beef, the deli also serves fantastic chicken soup and perfect pickles.

Roasters ‘n Toasters in Miami

A sign of a great deli is generous servings, and that’s exactly why these delis in Florida are so popular. Their standout dishes include the Pastrami Melt, which comes on an onion roll with sautéed onions and Swiss cheese, and the Jewish Cuban, a combination of corned beef, salami, and Swiss with pickles, mayo, and mustard on a toasted and pressed sub roll.

Shapiro’s Delicatessen in Indianapolis

It’s hard to overlook the impressive credentials of this beloved Midwestern deli: over 100 years in business, a huge menu of deli meats, including classics like smoked tongue, and an in-house bakery that makes fantastic bagels, breads, pies, and cakes.

Visit the Best Delis in the U.S. Today

If you love good food and hearty meals, explore America’s delis for some of the best sandwiches, classic deli meats, and unique dishes from Jewish, Polish, and Italian traditions. Enjoy delicious hot dogs, fresh pastrami, and indulgent bakery treats wherever you are in the country. Get ready for a culinary journey filled with rich flavors and generous servings that keep food lovers coming back for more.