When you think of New York delis, you think of Katz's. Since 1888, this Lower East Side institution has been serving what many consider the definitive pastrami sandwich.

The Experience

Walking into Katz's is like stepping back in time. The ticket system, the chaotic energy, the smell of cured meat – it's all part of the experience. I grabbed my ticket and made my way to the counter.

The Sandwich

Hand-carved pastrami, piled impossibly high between two slices of fresh rye bread. That's it. No fancy additions needed. The meat speaks for itself.

Flavor Profile

The pastrami is transcendent. Smoky, peppery, with that signature Katz's spice blend that's been perfected over generations. It's fatty in all the right ways, with meat so tender it practically dissolves on your tongue.

The rye bread is fresh and provides the perfect vehicle – sturdy enough to hold the mountain of meat, but soft enough to compress into each bite.

The Numbers

• Weight: This sandwich must be close to a pound of meat
• Price: About $28 (you read that right)
• Wait time: 15-20 minutes on a weekday

Worth the Hype?

Here's the thing about Katz's – it's touristy, it's expensive, and the lines can be brutal. But the pastrami? The pastrami is worth every single penny and minute of waiting.

"I'll have what she's having." – That famous scene was filmed here for a reason.

If you only eat one sandwich in New York, make it this one.