Battle of the New York Delis | Traveler with 1,000 Reasons Why

Now I'm sure there are tons of deli's in New York that everyone considers their favorite. However, based on the List, there are only three that I should consider.

Contender #1: Katz's Delicatessen. In my opinion, this would be the most famous of the deli's in New York. Of course, you would need to get the Pastrami sandwich here. Because, when I think of a deli, I think of a pastrami sandwich for some reason. Out of the deli's I went to, this one wins in atmosphere and price. Since this Chelsea spot is popular, the hustle and bustle of the customers placing orders constantly makes this place lively (but can be annoying if you don't like crowds). It also was the cheapest of the three deli's I went to. And did you know that this is the deli where they filmed When Harry Met Sally? There's even a sign that shows you where they actually sat, so you can sit in the same spot too! Plus, you can't beat the location. It's near all the awesome Soho shops, so you can always go to Katz's to power up after a long day of shopping.

Contender #2: Second Avenue Deli. Now, this deli is a classy joint. The establishment is a bit on the smaller side, but it has a big heart. You can tell they are serious about their sandwiches, and the prices reflect that. This deli wins in authenticity and pride when it comes to their food. I loved coming here! The wait staff are amazingly efficient, and without being short or rude about it. I got the corned beef/pastrami sandwich, and it was amazing! All the sandwiches come with pickles and slaw, which I didn't really care for. But oh man, that sandwich...I got the regular sized one which was totally filling, so you could imagine how big the triple decker sandwich would have been.

Contender #3: Carnegie Deli. Unfortunately, this deli closed down by the time I got a chance to visit. It was in a prime location a few blocks from Times Square too, so I was surprised to see it gone. If you guys are wanting to try its food, there are still some franchise locations out there (like the one in Vegas). I knew that all these places on the List wouldn't survive by the time I got around to them...but was really surprised about this one closing down. Oh well...

So with Carnegie Deli out of the running, it only leaves Katz's and 2nd Avenue in the mix. But how can you choose between two of the best deli's out there. I think New York City is a big enough place for both to stake a claim in the deli world. So go check both of them out, cause you won't be disappointed with either choice.

And if you want to stay in Times Square like I did during this visit, check out The Grace Hotel. The rooms are on the smaller side, but it's a very cute place with hospitable staff members. You will be wowed by the interestingly designed indoor pool, so be sure to check that out. The decor in each room and throughout the hotel is chic and youthfully trendy as well. They were still renovating the exterior of the hotel when I stayed, but it should be spruced up and ready for showing when you show up at their doorstep. Hope you enjoy your stay there like I did.