Katz Deli menu prices reflect the iconic status of their hand-carved pastrami sandwiches and towering corned beef creations. Knowing what you’ll pay before you step through those famous doors helps you plan your visit to this New York City landmark. This guide breaks down every cost, from classic sandwiches to sides and drinks, so you can enjoy your meal without any surprises.
Katz’s Delicatessen has been serving hungry New Yorkers and tourists since 1888. Their menu is simple but legendary, focusing on high-quality meats prepared the old-fashioned way. The prices might seem high at first glance, but the portion sizes are generous, often enough for two meals.
This article covers the full Katz Deli menu with current prices, tips for ordering, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, you’ll find everything you need here.
Katz Deli Menu Prices Overview
The menu at Katz’s is straightforward. You order at the counter, get your food on a tray, and find a seat. The main attraction is the sandwiches, but there are also platters, soups, salads, and classic deli sides. Prices are subject to change, so always check the official menu board when you visit.
Here is a general price range for the most popular items:
- Sandwiches: $23.95 – $27.95
- Platters: $25.95 – $29.95
- Sides: $4.95 – $8.95
- Drinks: $2.95 – $4.95
- Desserts: $6.95 – $8.95
These prices include the famous pickle bar, which gives you unlimited pickles, peppers, and sauerkraut. That alone is a great value.
Sandwich Prices At Katz Deli
The sandwiches are the heart of the menu. Each one is piled high with meat on fresh rye bread. You can choose from pastrami, corned beef, brisket, salami, or tongue. The standard sandwich comes with mustard on the side.
Here are the current sandwich prices:
- Pastrami Sandwich: $25.95
- Corned Beef Sandwich: $25.95
- Pastrami and Corned Beef Combo: $27.95
- Brisket Sandwich: $25.95
- Salami Sandwich: $23.95
- Tongue Sandwich: $24.95
- Katz’s Reuben (Corned Beef, Swiss, Sauerkraut, Russian Dressing): $26.95
- Pastrami Reuben: $26.95
Each sandwich is served on a plate with a pickle spear. You can upgrade to a combo with fries and a drink for an additional $4.95.
Platters And Combos
If you want a full meal, the platters are a good choice. They come with your choice of meat, two sides, and a drink. The portions are large, so you might want to share.
Platter prices include:
- Pastrami Platter: $28.95
- Corned Beef Platter: $28.95
- Brisket Platter: $28.95
- Mixed Meat Platter (choose two meats): $29.95
- Katz’s Famous Reuben Platter: $29.95
Sides for platters include coleslaw, potato salad, french fries, baked beans, and pickles. You can also get a side of matzo ball soup for an extra charge.
Sides And Appetizers
The sides at Katz’s are classic deli fare. They are made fresh daily and pair perfectly with your sandwich or platter.
Side dish prices:
- French Fries: $5.95
- Potato Salad: $4.95
- Coleslaw: $4.95
- Baked Beans: $5.95
- Pickle Barrel (assorted pickles): $6.95
- Matzo Ball Soup (cup): $6.95
- Matzo Ball Soup (bowl): $8.95
- Chopped Liver: $7.95
The matzo ball soup is a customer favorite. The broth is rich and the matzo ball is light and fluffy. It’s a great starter on a cold day.
Drinks And Desserts
Katz’s offers a standard selection of drinks and desserts. You can find sodas, iced tea, coffee, and beer. For dessert, try the cheesecake or the chocolate mousse.
Drink prices:
- Soda (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite): $3.95
- Iced Tea: $3.95
- Coffee: $2.95
- Beer (bottle): $6.95
- Beer (draft): $7.95
Dessert prices:
- New York Cheesecake: $7.95
- Chocolate Mousse: $6.95
- Rice Pudding: $6.95
The cheesecake is dense and creamy, a perfect end to a heavy meal.
How To Order At Katz Deli
Ordering at Katz’s can be confusing for first-timers. The system is unique, but once you understand it, it’s easy. Follow these steps for a smooth experience.
- Get a ticket: When you enter, you’ll receive a numbered ticket. Do not lose it. You’ll need it to pay at the end.
- Find a line: Look for the sandwich counter. There are usually multiple lines. Pick the shortest one.
- Place your order: Tell the counter person what you want. Be specific about the meat and bread. They will hand you your food on a tray.
- Get your ticket stamped: The counter person will stamp your ticket with the price of your order. Keep it safe.
- Find a seat: Carry your tray to an open table. If it’s busy, you might have to wait for a spot.
- Pay at the register: When you’re done eating, take your ticket to the cashier at the exit. They will total your bill. You can pay with cash or card.
One important rule: do not tip the counter person. They are not allowed to accept tips. You can tip the waitstaff if you sit at a table and they serve you.
Tips For Saving Money
Katz Deli menu prices can add up quickly, but there are ways to save. Here are some practical tips.
- Share a sandwich: The sandwiches are huge. Two people can easily split one. Just ask for extra plates.
- Go for the combo: If you want fries and a drink, the combo upgrade is cheaper than buying them separately.
- Skip the extras: The pickle bar is free. Load up on pickles and sauerkraut instead of buying a side.
- Visit during off-peak hours: Lunch and dinner rushes are expensive because you might feel rushed. Go mid-afternoon for a more relaxed meal.
- Use the Katz’s app: Sometimes the app has special offers or discounts. Check it before you go.
Another tip: if you’re on a tight budget, order the salami sandwich. It’s the cheapest option at $23.95 and still very filling.
What To Expect For Portion Sizes
The portion sizes at Katz’s are legendary. A single sandwich can weigh over a pound. The meat is piled high, often several inches thick. You will not leave hungry.
Here is what you can expect:
- A pastrami sandwich has about 8-10 ounces of meat.
- A platter comes with a full pound of meat plus two sides.
- Fries are served in a generous basket, enough for two.
- The matzo ball soup bowl is large, almost a meal itself.
Many people take leftovers home. The staff will wrap your sandwich in foil if you ask. Just make sure to keep your ticket for payment.
Katz Deli Menu Prices Compared To Other Delis
How do Katz Deli menu prices stack up against other famous delis? Let’s compare them to a few well-known competitors.
| Deli | Pastrami Sandwich Price | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Katz’s Delicatessen | $25.95 | New York City |
| Carnegie Deli (closed) | $24.95 (historical) | New York City |
| 2nd Ave Deli | $24.95 | New York City |
| Langer’s Deli | $22.95 | Los Angeles |
| Manny’s Cafeteria | $19.95 | Chicago |
Katz’s is on the higher end, but the quality and history justify the price. The meat is hand-carved and the recipes are unchanged for over a century. You pay for the experience as much as the food.
Is It Worth The Price?
Many people ask if Katz’s is worth the high prices. The answer depends on what you value. If you want a massive, high-quality sandwich in a historic setting, then yes. If you’re just looking for a cheap lunch, there are better options.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Quality: The meat is top-notch. Katz’s uses only USDA Prime beef and cures it in-house.
- Portion size: You get a lot of food for the money. One sandwich can feed two people.
- Atmosphere: The deli is a New York institution. The walls are covered in photos of famous visitors.
- Service: The counter staff are efficient and friendly. They know their meat.
For most visitors, Katz’s is a bucket-list experience. The price is part of the package.
Frequently Asked Questions About Katz Deli Menu Prices
Here are answers to common questions about costs at Katz’s.
Are Katz Deli menu prices the same for dine-in and takeout?
Yes, the prices are the same whether you eat in or take out. However, takeout orders may have a small packaging fee. Check with the counter when you order.
Does Katz Deli offer any discounts or coupons?
Katz’s rarely offers discounts. They have a loyalty program through their app, but it’s not a big money-saver. Sometimes they run specials on holidays.
Can I order half a sandwich to save money?
No, Katz’s does not offer half sandwiches. You can share a full sandwich with someone else. The staff will give you extra plates for free.
Are there any hidden fees at Katz Deli?
No hidden fees. The price you see on the menu is what you pay. Tax is added at the register. Tipping is optional for counter service but expected for table service.
How much does it cost to eat at Katz Deli for two people?
For two people, expect to spend around $50-$70. This includes two sandwiches or one platter and a side, plus drinks. Sharing a sandwich can lower the cost to $30-$40.
Final Thoughts On Katz Deli Menu Prices
Katz Deli menu prices are high, but the experience is unforgettable. The sandwiches are massive, the meat is top-quality, and the atmosphere is pure New York. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, a visit to Katz’s is a rite of passage.
Plan your order ahead of time. Decide if you want a sandwich or a platter. Remember to share if you’re on a budget. And don’t forget to grab a pickle from the barrel.
If you’re visiting for the first time, go with an open mind and an empty stomach. The prices might make you wince, but the first bite of that pastrami will make it all worth it. Katz’s has been serving this food for over 130 years, and they know what they’re doing.
One last tip: bring cash if you can. While they accept cards, cash is faster and avoids any potential card fees. Also, keep your ticket safe until you pay. Losing it can cause problems.
Now you have all the information you need. Go enjoy a legendary meal at Katz’s Delicatessen. Your taste buds will thank you.