how exciting are some bright neon signs?

Oh, c'mon -- you can't see the difference between Times Square and the sign on your local Der Weinerschnitzel???

OP, don't even think about skipping Times Square, just don't plan on spending a lot of time there! (said by a born and raised New Yorker who has lived in San Francisco for 40+ years).

As for deli, 2nd Avenue is GREAT, as is Katz'. If you go to Katz', the ordering process is a little confusing, but just know that it's best to put a dollar in the tip bucket when you order, and you'll get a much bigger sandwich than if you don't, and for me anyway, order extra lean pastrami (just as juicy, only the deli man cuts off the fat). The sandwiches at both places easily feed two.