calling NYers: best deli
 

Going into city tomorrow with deli lovers. Which is better: Second Street deli or Carnegie or is there another one I may not know about? Help!

Carnegie and Stage are widely described as overpriced and past their prime. Some folks insist that Katz's on Houston is great but Second Ave deli consistently gets the best reviews form the many, many posts I've read on the topic. I'm not much of a deli fan so this is all hearsay.

For what it's worth, Zagat rates Barney's Greengrass on Amsterdam betw 86-87 at the top because of their smoked fish (& warn about long brunch lines). After that Ess-a-Bagel (2 locations) ties with 2nd ave deli for #2, then Katz's, Carnegie & Stage in that order.

The answer depends on who responds! I lean towards Second Avenue Deli. All of the ones mentioned by Owen have their fans. Do a search and you'll find tons of opinions on the subject!

Second Ave. deli has always been my fave.

Carnegie is great & Stage is very good, but 2nd Ave. Deli is the very best, plus it is authentic (kosher). DO NOT ask for milk for your coffee, or a cheeseburger! They'll throw you out!

for what it's worth -- 2nd ave deli is gross. greasy and their rye bread tastes like it's been run over by a truck first. The best deli is Barney Greengrass. but don't look for friendly waitstaff or anthing like that. BTW, you will also find the BEST deli meats combined with the BEST bagels at ESS-A-BAGEL on 53rd and 3rd.<BR>

Second Avenue is my favorite. Be forewarned, it is a true Kosher Deli.

I've been to many, including Katz, Stage and Carnegie. I prefer Katz's, although I have never been to 2nd Avenue, so that might be better.

adding a strong first place vote for Second Avenue Deli, and an honorable mention to Artie's on the Upper West Side a new-ish place that captures <BR>the old time flavor well, and is cheaper and much less hectic than Carnegie &amp; Stage

My vote goes to Katz Deli. It has been in business for over 100 years, they must be doing something right.