Katz's Delicatessen

What to know

Katz's Delicatessen is a living monument to New York's immigrant past and Jewish food traditions, marketing itself as the oldest deli in the city. The establishment traces its origins back to 1888, when it began as Iceland Brothers on Ludlow Street in the Lower East Side. Over the decades, the business evolved through several name changes, becoming Iceland & Katz in 1903 after the arrival of Willy Katz and formally establishing the name Katz's Delicatessen in 1910 when Benny Katz joined his cousin Willy and bought out the Iceland brothers. Located at 205 East Houston Street, the deli's physical evolution reflects the city's growth. During the 1930s, subway construction forced the business to move to the other side of Ludlow Street to its current location. The vacant lot on Houston Street, which previously served as storage for barrels of meat and pickles, was eventually transformed into the present storefront facade added between 1946 and 1949. Today, the deli is widely known for its signature pastrami on rye, a dish that attracts both locals and tourists alike. It operates as a longstanding food destination rather than a full-service restaurant concept, maintaining its traditional atmosphere. For those unable to visit in person, the business offers nationwide shipping of its deli foods and Manhattan delivery services.

Visitor tips

• Prepare for queues; this is one of the city's most popular food destinations.
• Allow extra time for the ordering process, as it is a traditional deli style.
• If you cannot wait in line, consider their Manhattan delivery services for your hotel.

Nearby context

Katz's is a cornerstone of the Lower East Side, situated on the corner of Houston Street and Ludlow Street, anchoring a neighborhood known for its immigrant history and Jewish heritage.