Best Sandwiches/Delis in New York

This little deli serves up some of the area's best prepared foods and sandwiches. This unassuming storefront hides within it a treasure trove of delicious flavors and quality ingredients. Brancaccio's even produces what has been called one of NYC's best sandwiches in "The Complex Mag" sandwich filled with eggplant caponata, ricotta cheese, broccoli rabe and eggs. This is just one example of the kinds of incredible sandwiches Brancaccio's makes, not to mention the selection of other foods like roast chicken or pasta bolognese.

Situated on tree-lined 31st Avenue in Astoria, Il Bambino offers some of the best panini anywhere in the city. Upon entering, visitors will see their pig logo which highlights the restaurant's favorite animal, however the kitchen still serves chicken and vegetarian options along with some hearty homemade soups. To begin, the charcuterie plate is a nice touch, the crostini are perfect for sharing and the after dinner baked goods make this establishment delightful. If you can't visit this location, there is another one in the West Village.

For more than a 100 years, this huge cafeteria-style Jewish deli has been delighting New Yorkers with their pastrami and brisket sandwiches alongside their scrumptious "kosher-style" meals. The humble eatery, with Formica tables lined up in rows is a great place if you are craving a giant sandwich served with perfect pickles or a couple of kosher hot dogs. The decadent dessert options include Rugelach, Babka, and New York Cheesecake. There is table service, but most people take a ticket at the door and give it to the counterman when placing their order; they then pay on the way out.

Luke Holden is the creator behind the eponymous "shacks" located throughout Manhattan and some say this is where you can find the best lobster roll in the city. The roll is a small slice of heaven served upon a traditional split-top bun, a little mayo, lemon butter and not much else, but that is the way it should be, because the lobster sells itself. The menu is simple and pure, there is a choice between crab, shrimp and lobster rolls or the Taste of Maine which includes three of the aforementioned rolls. If you are a duo, have the Noah's Ark which is the Taste of Maine for two. Luke and his crew believe in sustainability and harvest their catch each day in Maine without middle-men and distributors, so you are assured of compliance with strict regulations in that state, as well as the freshest lobster on the island.

Located in Brooklyn on Hoyt Street near Atlantic Avenue, Mile End Delicatessen brings smoked meats from the our neighbor to the North down south. Breakfast is available with choices like a bagel and schmear or whitefish salad. The smoked meat and beef brisket, gets underway at noon everyday. There are other hearty dishes like smoked salami, turkey and more. Plus, there is the authentic Montreal dish that guarantees to clog arteries - poutine, which consists of fries with cheese curds and gravy. There is a brief shutdown time between lunch and dinner from 4p to 5:30p. Additional dishes are available for dinner, and brunch is available on the weekends; however, the smoked brisket is the way to go for first timers. Beer and wine are also available.

A wide range of savory sandwiches await you at Defonte's in Brooklyn. Established in the early 1900s by an Italian immigrant Nick Defonte, it is a popular stop to grab a delicious sandwich for locals on the go. The elaborate menu includes sandwiches stuffed with turkey, roast beef, ham and egg, veggies and more. 'The Dino' filled with meatball, parmesan cheese, and traditional Italian sauce and ‘Defonte's Cuban’ stuffed with pork, ham, pickles and a variety of sauces are among the most favorite orders of the patrons here. Apart from hefty sandwiches, this little eatery also serves hot plates, sides, salads and a couple of beverages.

The beauty of places like Alidoro is that people of all ages throng here. Whether it's a Pinocchio sandwich or a meatball sub, when it comes to comfort food, this eatery is the best snack joint in Soho. Though the management has changed hands, the menu remains the same; a respite for Alidoro loyals, which also includes high-schoolers. Chat at the tables or order to go, the selections will have you back for more.

Since first opening in 1954, 2nd Avenue Deli Restaurant has become one of the best-known names on the world-renowned Manhattan Jewish Deli scene. The menu consists of time-tested favorites like Corned Beef Sandwiches, Matzo Ball Soup, and Pastrami served in a dining room surrounded by Yiddish memorabilia. Though the original location on 2nd Street was closed down in 2006, it has since reopened at a new location on 33rd Street with its original menu still intact. You won't regret traveling those extra blocks for a taste of this Manhattan landmark.