I'll have what she's having

Eating New York in One Sandwich

Alistair Bancroft | 2017

United States •North America

Walking the streets of New York, you’d find yourself hard pushed not to step into a piece of cinematic history.

One film location that struck a chord during our visit was the site of Meg Ryan's famous fake orgasm scene in the 1989 rom-com "When Harry Met Sally" - Long on the New York ‘to-do’ list - Katz's legendary Jewish deli.

Katz's Delicatessen, also known as Katz's of New York City, is synonymous with iconic New York City food, specifically, slow-cured pastrami and corned beef, has been serving customers from its location in the Lower East Side since 1988.

The first rule of dining at Katz's Delicatessen - don't lose your ticket!

When you are fortunate enough to enter through the holy doors – expect to queue - you will be handed an orange, carnival style ticket. This is your receipt (or check) and effectively your exit pass, on which your server will mark on with everything you order.

Hang onto it or you will be subject to a hefty fine!

Please return all tickets (used or un-used) when leaving... Any lost ticket will incur a 50.00USD lost ticket charge (minimum)

Not to be swayed by the menu options, we opted for the server's recommendation and ordered the Reuben sandwich – one with corned beef and a one with pastrami to share, accompanied with a Swiss cheese and sauerkraut combo.

Patience is rewarded

Note the generous portion size

When the Reuben’s were served - controlling our emotions - the first observation is that the portioning is very generous; any water in the eyes at the price has since dried, this is one establishment in New York where you get what you pay for!

Can't wait? Discover the real taste of New York at home with New York Cult Recipes.

New York Cult Recipes

Upon the first salivating taste the meat simply melts on your mouth in a way that can only be described as divine, and your teeth just glide through the sandwich, melting in your mouth.