Today is the 3.03.2026, and in Surfside, Florida, we’re celebrating a culinary tradition that has been cherished for over a century: Jewish delis. These establishments have been a staple in American cuisine since the late 1800s, brought to life by German and Eastern European immigrants. Jewish delis are known for their classic kosher and non-kosher dishes, serving up favorites like pastrami on rye, matzo-ball soup, gefilte fish, and Reuben sandwiches. They offer a unique blend of culture, history, and mouthwatering food.
The selection of the best Jewish delis in the United States considers customer reviews focusing on quality, portion sizes, and service, alongside the deli’s reputation for serving sliced meats. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these delis are a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in some authentic Jewish flavors.
Top Jewish Delis Across the USA
Here’s a look at some of the top Jewish delis that are making waves across the country:
- Katz’s Delicatessen, New York City, NY
Founded in 1888, it’s NYC’s oldest deli, famous for its pastrami that is cured for 2-4 weeks and smoked for 2-3 days.
Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002 - 4th Street Delicatessen, Philadelphia, PA
Established in 1923, known for homemade pastrami and corned beef, it boasts a Michelin Bib Gourmand award.
Address: 700 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 - The General Muir, Atlanta, GA
A Michelin-recognized spot featuring a mix of classic and innovative dishes.
Address: 1540 Avenue Pl B-230, Atlanta, GA 30329 - Langer’s Delicatessen, Los Angeles, CA
Founded in 1947, it’s renowned for having the best pastrami in the USA.
Address: 704 S Alvarado St, Los Angeles, CA 90057 - Josh’s Deli, Surfside, FL
Michelin-recommended and known for its homemade offerings.
Address: 9517 Harding Ave, Surfside, FL 33154
In addition to these celebrated delis, Washington D.C. has also made its mark in the deli scene, with Loeb’s at the forefront. This deli offers a variety of pastrami sandwiches named after famous streets in New York, such as the Park Avenue and Wall Street sandwiches, each crafted with unique and delicious ingredients. Check out Loeb’s for a taste of New York right in the heart of the capital!
The Iconic Pastrami Sandwich
One cannot talk about Jewish delis without mentioning the iconic pastrami sandwich. This beloved dish consists of thinly sliced, cured meat served on rye bread and has become a symbol of Jewish life in America. According to cultural scholar Caspar Battegay, the pastrami sandwich’s rise to fame in the early 20th century helped solidify its status as a central dish in the delicatessen landscape. The atmosphere of a deli typically resembles a cafeteria rather than a fine dining restaurant, creating a relaxed space where food brings people together. It’s a place where culinary traditions thrive and secular Jewish identity is celebrated.
Delis serve not just food, but also a sense of belonging, connecting diners to their cultural heritage. They have become gathering spots where food and community intertwine, playing a significant role in the daily lives and identities of those who frequent them.
To learn more about these beloved establishments and their rich history, take a look at the full list of the best Jewish delis across the United States from Chowhound and dive deeper into the world of pastrami sandwiches and Jewish culinary culture from Far & Wide.
Delve into the history and significance of these cultural gems and savor the flavors that have been passed down through generations. Whether you’re in Florida or visiting New York, experiencing a Jewish deli is a culinary journey worth taking!