New York delis have that classic old-school charm. It usually involves surly waiters, flimsy menus, and a dated and unattractive dining room. It reminds you of the 1970’s and makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a Jewish grandmother’s home. One who is so busy cooking that she doesn’t have time to clean.
All my expectations were squashed when I walked into the new incarnation of 2nd Avenue Deli, which is a few avenues off its namesake. This place was clean, friendly, and inviting. Yet it still had that old-world charm. Even the essential celebrity photos were hanging on the wall, but they were artfully displayed and looked like artwork rather than a collage of home photos.
Originally, 2nd Avenue Deli was located on 10th Street and… Second Avenue. But because of issues with rent, they were forced to close. And I guess the rent is more affordable on 33rd Street and Third Avenue, because that’s where the newer version of the restaurant stands.
I had never made it to this place when it was on Second Avenue, but after trying their food and experiencing their service, I can’t believe what I had missed. Our waitress was very friendly and allowed us to share a combo sandwich. I’m really trying to just taste these things rather than gorge myself at every place.
I asked for the meat extra lean and out it came. A modest serving (in comparison to other delis), but this was filling and so delicious. The corned beef had just the right saltiness and was incredibly tender. The pastrami had a nice bite and spice. The rye bread was fresh and soft and the mustard helped bring out all the flavors. And together, these components made a pretty spectacular deli sandwich.
Because everything was so good (including the crispy dill pickles and even the minestrone soup), I had to order a potato pancake. And it was fried to perfection without being too greasy and was served with (my favorite) apple sauce!
And to put the whole thing over the top, the waitress came by with a free shot of homemade chocolate soda. I don’t know if this is a daily ritual or they just had some left over from a drink they had made. Whatever the reason was, it was a gracious gesture and was a perfect capper to our meal.
I can’t look back and regret all the delicious sandwiches I’ve missed over the years by never coming to 2nd Avenue Deli. But I can be grateful that I finally discovered them in a new location and they continue to serve excellent Jewish cuisine. Even if they are no longer on Second Avenue. It just has a better ring than “33rd Street and 3rd Avenue Deli.”
Is 2nd Avenue Deli the best corned beef/pastrami in NY? A 9 out of 10 is their score because they make fantastic sandwiches in a clean, comfortable atmosphere without any pretension or desperate pandering of their celebrity endorsements.
