BEST DELI IN MIDTOWN EAST/MURRAY HILL
You know what they say: Even if you're Catholic, you're Jewish if you live in New York. Serving the ultimate in kosher deli food, 2nd Ave Deli is no longer actually on Second Avenue, as the East Village original that opened in 1954 fell victim to rising rents and closed in 2006. This recent reincarnation, run by the original owner's nephew, is on East 33rd Street near Third Avenue and hews closely to its beloved archetype. Every diner is treated to a plate of whole sour pickles and a serving of cold, crisp coleslaw, and the legendary gribenes (deep-fried chicken skin topped with chopped onions) remain one of the favorite menu offerings. Other popular dishes include the thick, melt-in-your-mouth, house-cured corned beef, the peppery pastrami, and chicken matzo ball soup. The service is prompt and attentive and may include a shot of chocolate soda at the end of your meal, if you're lucky. Full bar. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night daily.
The New York Times: * (good); Top Pick