Katz’s on Westheimer has a way of pulling you in the moment you step inside, especially late at night when the rest of the city is winding down and this place is doing the opposite.
The room hums with conversation, the New York deli vibe is loud and unapologetic, and it feels like everyone knows exactly what they came for.
I was locked in on the Reuben everyone talks about, the one that keeps showing up online and in local conversations. When it hit the table, stacked high with corned beef and melting cheese, it felt less like a meal and more like a commitment.
One bite in, it made complete sense why this spot has such a loyal following, and by the time I was halfway through, I was already thinking about when I’d be back.
A Deli Experience That Never Sleeps
Walking up to Katz’s at any hour feels like stepping into a piece of New York transplanted right into the heart of Houston. The 24-hour operation means you can satisfy that Reuben craving whether it’s breakfast time or three in the morning after a night out.
I appreciated how the staff maintained the same welcoming energy no matter when I visited.
The interior design leans heavily into the Big Apple aesthetic with vintage-style signage and booth seating that makes you feel like you’re in a classic Manhattan deli. There’s seating on two levels, though the upstairs isn’t always open during slower periods.
Free parking right out front is a huge bonus in this busy Montrose area, even if the neighborhood can feel a bit sketchy late at night.
What struck me most was how the atmosphere balanced casual comfort with genuine efficiency. The servers moved quickly but never made you feel rushed.
You can tell this place has been serving Houstonians for years and has figured out exactly what works. It’s the kind of spot where regulars know the menu by heart but newcomers feel equally welcome from the moment they sit down.
The Star Attraction: That Legendary Reuben
Let me be clear: this Reuben is not some dainty sandwich you pick up with one hand. When the server set it down in front of me, I had to pause and figure out my strategy.
The corned beef is piled so high that the sandwich barely holds together, and that’s exactly how it should be.
The meat itself is perfectly brined without crossing into overly salty territory, something several reviewers mentioned and I completely agree with. Each bite delivers that classic deli flavor with tender, flavorful beef that’s been prepared with real care.
The Swiss cheese melts beautifully over the warm meat, creating those perfect cheese pulls that make for great photos but taste even better.
What really makes this Reuben work is the balance. The tangy sauerkraut cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese, while the Russian dressing adds a creamy, slightly sweet element that ties everything together.
The rye bread is griddled to golden perfection, providing just enough structure to hold this monster together. I found myself comparing it favorably to other Houston delis, and it absolutely holds its own.
This is comfort food executed at a high level.
Supporting Cast: Fried Pickles and Starters
Before diving into the main event, I decided to try the fried pickles that kept appearing in customer reviews. These aren’t just an afterthought appetizer.
They’re thick-cut pickle chips with a crispy, well-seasoned coating that stays crunchy even as you work through the basket.
The pickles maintain their tangy bite underneath that golden exterior, creating a nice contrast between the warm, crunchy outside and the cool, tart inside. They come with ranch dressing for dipping, though honestly they’re flavorful enough to eat plain.
I also noticed other tables ordering the Wisconsin cheese curds, which looked equally impressive with their stretchy, melted centers.
The slaw and pickles combo that some diners start with is another solid choice if you want something lighter before your sandwich arrives. These starters aren’t trying to reinvent anything, and that’s their strength.
They’re classic deli appetizers done right, with proper seasoning and cooking technique. The portions are generous enough to share, which is smart because you’ll want to save room for whatever sandwich or entrée you’re ordering.
Starting with fried pickles became my ritual on return visits, and I’d recommend making it yours too.
Beyond the Reuben: Unexpected Menu Gems
While the Reuben rightfully gets most of the attention, Katz’s menu runs surprisingly deep. The matzo ball soup appeared on multiple tables during my visits, and I eventually had to try it myself.
The matzo balls are light and fluffy rather than dense, floating in a rich chicken broth that tastes homemade rather than from a can.
I was genuinely surprised by how many people ordered the chicken fried chicken with mashed potatoes and cream gravy. This is Texas comfort food meeting New York deli, and somehow it works beautifully.
The chicken stays juicy under its crispy coating, and the gravy has that peppery kick that makes you want to soak up every drop with your bread.
The Monte Cristo sandwich divides people based on the reviews, but the pastrami sandwich is another solid choice if you want something similar to the Reuben with a different flavor profile. There’s also a full breakfast menu available around the clock, which makes sense for a 24-hour operation.
The stuffed cabbage is an old-world recipe that feels authentic, with a sweet glaze that complements the savory filling. Having this variety means you could visit Katz’s repeatedly and try something new each time.
Service That Keeps You Coming Back
Good food only takes you so far if the service falls apart, but Katz’s seems to have figured out the staffing equation. During multiple visits at different times of day, I consistently encountered servers who were attentive without being overbearing.
They kept drinks filled, checked in at appropriate intervals, and handled special requests without making you feel like a burden.
Several reviewers mentioned specific servers by name, which tells you something about the quality of the team.
The staff’s patience and genuine friendliness create an atmosphere where you want to linger over your meal rather than rush through it. In a city as big as Houston, finding consistent, friendly service at any hour is worth noting and celebrating.
The Challenge of Portions and Pricing
One thing becomes immediately clear at Katz’s: they do not believe in small portions. When your food arrives, you’ll likely do a double-take at the sheer amount on your plate.
The sandwiches are legitimately sized for two people to share, and the side dishes could almost function as meals themselves.
This generous approach means the prices, while not cheap, actually represent decent value when you consider how much food you’re getting. Expect to pay around the mid-range for a deli in a major city, which feels fair given the quality and quantity.
Some items do have upcharges for premium sides like sweet potato fries, so it’s worth asking your server about any additional costs when ordering.
I learned quickly to come hungry and potentially skip a meal beforehand if I wanted to finish what I ordered. The Loaded Texas Toast that one reviewer mentioned is apparently enough food for a small army.
Taking leftovers home is not only acceptable but practically expected. The kitchen packs to-go orders carefully so everything travels well, which matters if you’re ordering for later or bringing food back to share with others who couldn’t make the trip.
Atmosphere and Location Considerations
The Montrose location puts you right in one of Houston’s most vibrant neighborhoods, surrounded by bars, clubs, and late-night activity. This energy feeds into Katz’s atmosphere, especially during weekend nights when the place fills with people looking for substantial food after going out.
The noise level can climb pretty high when it’s packed, so this isn’t the spot for intimate conversation during peak hours.
The New York deli theme is executed thoroughly, from the decor to the menu design to the general vibe of the place. Some might find it a bit kitschy, but I appreciated the commitment to the concept.
The upstairs seating area offers a bit more space and slightly less noise when it’s open, though access requires using stairs since the elevator is sometimes out of service.
Parking deserves a mention because finding a spot on Westheimer can be tricky during busy times. Katz’s has its own lot, which is a major advantage, though the surrounding area does have some safety concerns late at night.
I never had any issues personally, but it’s worth being aware of your surroundings. The location’s accessibility and central position in Houston make it convenient to reach from most parts of the city.
Making the Most of Your Visit
After several visits, I’ve developed some strategies for getting the best experience at Katz’s. First, consider going during off-peak hours if you want a quieter atmosphere and faster service.
The beauty of 24-hour service means you can hit that sweet spot between the lunch rush and dinner crowd. Late morning or mid-afternoon often provides the best balance of fresh food and available seating.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the menu or request modifications. The kitchen handles special requests well, and the servers know the menu thoroughly enough to make solid recommendations.
If you’re torn between the Reuben and another sandwich, ask if you can get a half portion or share with someone else at your table.
Bring friends or family because sharing lets you sample more of the menu without leaving stuffed to the point of discomfort. The variety means everyone can find something they’ll enjoy, from classic deli fare to more adventurous options like the stuffed cabbage.
Save room for dessert if possible, as the red velvet cheesecake earned specific mentions from satisfied customers. Most importantly, embrace the casual, no-frills atmosphere and enjoy the fact that great deli food is available whenever the craving hits.
Address: 616 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
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