by Justine Goodman - 81 Reviews - 104 List
New York has every kind of ethnic food imaginable, but at its backbone are longstanding Jewish dishes and Jewish restaurants. From pastrami sandwiches at Katz's Deli to chicken liver at Sammy's Roumanian, you don't have to be one of the Chosen People to enjoy some good old-fashioned Jewish cooking in New York. (Photo: Gary Soup on Flickr)
Updated: September 26, 2011
Katz's may be famous for the "I'll have what she's having" scene in "When Harry Met Sally," but that's just one small sliver of what makes it so historic. Order the pastrami or corned beef sandwich for a uniquely Jewish (and uniquely New York) experience. Just don't lose the paper ticket they give you at the beginning of the meal or you'll be fined $50 when you leave.
This Lower East Side knishery has been in business since 1910--and not much has changed in 100-plus years. Choose from flavors such as spinach, mushroom or classic potato; it's a perfect snack for a cool autumn day.
A bona fide New York landmark, Carnegie has been serving up traditional Jewish deli food since 1937. Pastrami, corned beef and brisket sandwiches are piled high--which is how they justify the high prices. You can expect to pay as much as $23.95 for just one sandwich, but trust us: It's worth it.
High-quality, old-school Jewish cooking is the name of the game at this kitsch-filled Lower East Side wonderland. Come weekends, it's a popular destination for parties, which is due as much to the boisterous atmosphere as the free-flowing booze. And then there's the food: Chicken liver (expertly prepared tableside), potato pancakes and, of course, the famous Romanian skirt steak.
