It's easy to feel homesick as a New York-Seattle transplant when you’re looking to chase away those rainy day blues with a delectable deli sandwich. After all, delis are to New York what cafes are to Seattle.
But fret not – there IS support. Whether you’re a Northeast expat or just someone who’ll plotz over an exceptional pastrami, there's a community of Seattleites who care as much as you do about cured meats and cold cut sandwiches so big they test the limits of your jaw's capabilities.
The I Love New York Deli in Seattle's Pike Place Market (www.savethedeli.com / David Cowles)
While it’s easy for East Coast expats to lament the lack of Jewish and Italian-style delis at every Seattle street corner (don’t get me started on pizza and bagels), I appreciate all the attempts at authentic East Coast delicatessens. Here’s a list of what I’ve found (and I look forward to hearing about more):
- I Love New York Deli
- Tat’s Delicatessen
- Other Coast Cafe
- Mike’s East Coast Sandwiches
- Goldberg’s Famous Delicatessen
- Roxy’s Diner
Then there are establishments that aren't self-proclaimed East Coast delis, but prove that New York doesn't have a monopoly on quality deli foods:
It’s heartening to read all the passionate reviews of these places written by East Coast expats. True, perhaps it isn't the same as back home – but eating is an experience for all the senses (the smell of the deli, the sounds of the street corner), which you can't replicate entirely. And that’s okay. Personally, I’m surprised and pleased that I can find a decent deli sandwich in Seattle – then wash it down with an outstanding cup of coffee. It’s enough to make you feel a little verklempt.
Comments
I've never been there, but this place probably makes the list, too:
http://www.ralphsgroceryanddeli.com/
OK, where do you go for REAL NY-tasting pizza? Not style, but taste. All the pizza in Seattle sucks.
Thanks for the suggestion! I've been told that Bakeman's in Pioneer Sq. makes a mean sandwich and I also got a tip about Kosher Delight downtown - I'll have to see if they're worth their weight in kosher salt.
As for pizza, that's a blog post for a whole other time. I'm with you - I haven't eaten at one that I feel comfortable touting as the real deal. So, I'll refer you to this posting from a blog called Slice:
http://slice.seriouseats.com/archives/2004/04/new_york_pizza.html
I'm desperately searching for a New York slice in Seattle if anyone has suggestions! I'll be on the lookout... expect a post about it soon.
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