Upper East Side · Jewish Deli · Sandwiches
Kosher deli on Lexington doing a pastrami sandwich that rivals anything downtown, without the tourist line
Pastrami Queen is a kosher deli on Lexington Avenue that does one thing at a very high level: a hand-cut pastrami sandwich, piled high, warm, fatty where it should be, served on rye with mustard. It is the Upper East Side's answer to the downtown deli institutions, and the meaningful difference is that you will not stand in a ninety-minute line to get it. The room is small and functional and the prices are what kosher deli prices are in 2026. The matzo ball soup is legitimate and the knish is worth adding. For anyone who wants the sandwich without the pilgrimage, this is the move.
Pastrami Queen is kosher deli on Lexington doing a pastrami sandwich that rivals anything downtown, without the tourist line. Regulars order pastrami on rye and matzo ball soup.
Pastrami Queen is priced at $$ — approx. $20–$40 per person.
Pastrami Queen does not list an online reservation system. Walk-in; counter and small dining room
Pastrami Queen is at 1125 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10075, in Upper East Side. Street parking on Lexington; garages on Third Ave