Katz’s Delicatessen is an institution, but the reason to visit is still simple: thick, hand carved pastrami served in a room full of New York history. The Lower East Side deli can feel loud and confusing on arrival. Once you understand the ticket system, the experience becomes much easier.
My meal delivered the generous portion and busy atmosphere that Katz’s is known for. The pastrami was the focus, and sharing made the high menu price easier to justify.
Updated November 2026.
Katz’s Delicatessen Details
- Address: 205 East Houston Street at Ludlow Street, New York, NY 10002.
- Phone: 212 254 2246.
- Monday to Thursday: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm.
- Weekend hours: Open continuously from Friday at 8:00 am until Sunday at 11:00 pm.
- Nearby subway: F train to Second Avenue, or F, M, J, and Z trains to Delancey Street and Essex Street.
- Reservations: The main deli is built around walk in service. Groups above ten can contact Katz’s about group arrangements.
Confirm holiday hours on the official Katz’s location page.
What to Order at Katz’s
- Pastrami sandwich: $30.95 on the current official menu.
- Corned beef sandwich: $29.95.
- Brisket sandwich: $29.95.
- Reuben: $31.95, with an extra charge for pastrami.
- Half sandwich and matzo ball soup: $26.95.
Prices were checked on the official Katz’s menu in November 2026. They may change.
The pastrami on rye is the clearest first order. It arrives heavily filled, with mustard adding sharpness without hiding the meat. A Reuben is richer and messier. The photograph below shows the version served during my visit.
How the Katz’s Ticket System Works
- Take a paper ticket when you enter.
- Choose counter service or wait for table service.
- At the counter, give the ticket to each cutter or station.
- Your purchases are marked on the ticket.
- Keep the ticket until you pay at the exit register.
Do not throw away an unused ticket. Every person should keep the ticket received at the door. A small cash tip for the cutter is customary, so carrying a few dollars is useful.
Things to Know Before Visiting
- Lines are normal: They can extend outside at popular meal times.
- Portions are large: Sharing a sandwich is a sensible plan for many visitors.
- Prices are premium: You are paying for both the portion and the institution.
- The room is busy: This is not a quiet lunch, especially near the main counter.
- Cards are accepted: The old cash only warning is outdated. Keep cash only if you want to tip the cutter directly.
- The Ludlow Room has returned: Katz’s reopened this 68 seat room to diners in May 2026.
Arrive before the main lunch rush if you want a calmer first visit. For a classic appetizing counter nearby, read our Russ & Daughters Cafe review. Our Joe’s Shanghai review covers another famous New York queue.
Katz’s Delicatessen Photos
Katz’s Delicatessen FAQ
What should a first time visitor order?
The pastrami on rye with mustard is the classic choice. Share it if you also want soup or sides.
Is Katz’s Delicatessen open 24 hours?
It operates continuously from Friday morning through Sunday night. Weekday hours are shorter.
Do you need a reservation?
Most diners walk in and use the ticket system. Groups above ten should contact Katz’s in advance.
Is Katz’s Delicatessen kosher?
Katz’s is a Jewish style deli, but it is not certified kosher.
The Brief Review Verdict
Katz’s is expensive, crowded, and worth understanding before you arrive. It is also one of New York’s most distinctive food experiences. The hand carved pastrami remains the reason to go. Share a sandwich, keep your ticket, and give yourself time to enjoy the room. For more current New York dining ideas, see our reviews of Ha’s Snack Bar and Los Tacos No 1.