New York is famous for its incredible Jewish deli foods, especially bagels and pastrami that locals swear by. The good news is you don’t need to stay overnight to enjoy these iconic foods! With convenient train routes from nearby cities, food lovers can hop aboard for a delicious adventure through the boroughs.
Here’s how to plan the perfect one-day train excursion to taste New York’s most legendary bagels and pastrami sandwiches.
1. Morning Train Routes: Your Gateway To Flavor
Philadelphia residents can board Amtrak’s Northeast Regional or Acela, reaching New York’s Penn Station in just 90 minutes. The early morning departure at 7:00 AM puts you in Manhattan before the breakfast rush ends.
From New Haven, the Metro-North Railroad delivers you straight to Grand Central Terminal in approximately two hours. Albany dwellers have the Empire Service option, taking roughly 2.5 hours southbound.
These strategic morning departures allow ample time to savor New York’s culinary treasures before catching an evening return train.
2. Breakfast Bagel Bliss At Ess-a-Bagel
Located in Midtown East, Ess-a-Bagel has been a New York institution since the 1970s. Their hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels feature that perfect combination of crispy exterior and chewy interior that defines authentic New York style.
Order their signature everything bagel with scallion cream cheese or go traditional with lox and capers. A quick walk from Grand Central makes this an ideal first stop.
Pro tip: arrive before 10 AM to avoid the legendary lines that form as the morning progresses.
3. Katz’s Delicatessen: Pastrami Perfection Since 1888
No New York pastrami pilgrimage is complete without visiting the Lower East Side’s legendary Katz’s Delicatessen. Their hand-carved pastrami is cured for up to 30 days before being smoked and steamed to juicy perfection.
The classic sandwich comes piled impossibly high on rye bread with mustard. Take the F train downtown after your bagel breakfast to arrive just as lunch service begins.
Remember their famous line: “Send a salami to your boy in the army” – a slogan dating back to WWII.
4. Russ & Daughters: A Century Of Appetizing Excellence
Just a short walk from Katz’s, this 1914-established appetizing store represents New York food history at its finest. The term “appetizing” specifically refers to foods that complement bagels – primarily smoked fish.
Their Super Heebster bagel sandwich combines whitefish salad with horseradish cream cheese for a flavor explosion. The fourth-generation family business maintains traditional preparation methods that haven’t changed in over a century.
Visit their nearby café if you prefer sit-down service with the same incredible quality.
5. Evening Return: 2nd Ave Deli’s Portable Pastrami
Before boarding your evening train home, make one final stop at 2nd Ave Deli’s Midtown location. This kosher establishment serves up pastrami that rivals Katz’s but with a slightly different spice profile many connoisseurs prefer.
Their triple-decker sandwiches travel remarkably well, making them perfect for enjoying on your return journey. Ask for extra pickles and a container of their famous matzo ball soup for the complete experience.
Located just blocks from Penn Station, it’s the ideal final taste of New York before heading home.
6. Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company: A Twist On Tradition
Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite. As you step inside, the aroma of freshly baked bagels welcomes you warmly. Choose from an array of flavors, paired with unique, creamy spreads.
Enjoy your selection in a cozy setting, surrounded by the chatter of satisfied patrons. Known for its generous portion sizes, this spot promises a hearty start to your day.
Did you know? This establishment prides itself on hand-rolling each bagel, ensuring that authentic, chewy texture that New Yorkers cherish. A visit here is a true bagel lover’s dream.
7. Pastrami Queen: A Royal Feast
Pastrami Queen serves a sandwich experience fit for royalty. Famous for its thick, succulent slices of pastrami, each sandwich here is a masterpiece. The tenderness of the meat, combined with perfectly crusty rye bread, creates an unforgettable flavor.
As you take a bite, the rich history of New York’s deli culture unfolds. Located on the Upper East Side, this deli embraces tradition while welcoming new visitors.
Fun fact: Originally a kosher-style deli, Pastrami Queen has been satisfying cravings since the mid-20th century, a testament to its enduring appeal and quality.
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