The deli that defined the Midtown pastrami sandwich is serving again, ten years after it closed, and this is its first weekend back. Milton Parker's granddaughter Sarri Harper runs it now, in the old Stage Deli space on Seventh Avenue, with the original Wall of Fame photos, the cheesecake recipe from 1937 and a new sandwich called the Colossus. If you want a first-weekend booth before the tourists find it, go at opening time.
What to expect
A 2,500-square-foot, 110-seat room with wood-paneled walls, tables packed close together and a deli counter in view. Waiters take your order at the table, most of the menu is served all day, and there are lunch and dinner specials alongside smoked fish, bagels and omelets.
Good to know
- No reservations: it is first come, first served, so expect a line at peak lunch and pre-theater dinner.
- Take the N, Q, R or W to 57 St–7 Av, or the B, D or E to 7 Av, both a short walk away.
- Sandwiches are huge; many people split one and add a slice of cheesecake.
- The Colossus stacks pastrami, corned beef, turkey, Swiss, coleslaw and Russian dressing.
- Carnegie Hall and the Broadway theaters are a few blocks away, so it works before a show.
Going? Keep it.
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Common questions
Is this the original Carnegie Deli?
It is the same family business, now run by Sarri Harper, granddaughter of longtime owner Milton Parker, reopened at 834 Seventh Avenue a few blocks from the original location.
Can I make a reservation?
No. The deli is walk-in only.
What are the hours?
Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM.