One of my favorite scenes from the movie Elf is when Buddy storms into the cramped NYC diner to congratulate them for serving “the world's best cup of coffee.” Of course, the fluorescent neon sign was merely a gimmick to fool tourists into dining in their establishment, one farthest from being the best. Zooey Deschanel’s character, Jovie, quickly acknowledges this after taking one sip of their supposed “best” coffee in the world, a cup she deems to be crappy. Of course, it takes the taste of a true New Yorker to acknowledge what is good and what is plain old crappy when it comes to our signature dishes. In a similar respect, I see myself as the Jovie of Staten Island pastrami places. After weeks of testing different pastrami sandwiches, I've compiled a list of the top 5 sites to try out, so you don’t fall victim to false advertising like Buddy.
1. Duffy's Tavern
I am fully convinced Duffy’s can do no wrong. We all know they serve a slammin' burger (voted best in the borough). Who can forget about their ooey gooey jalapeno poppers? Their pastrami sandwich is just another reason to head on over to Forest Avenue. You can choose from a roll, hero, white or rye bread, any type of cheese you desire (I always go for swiss), and don't forget a side of fries (choice of crinkle cut, sweet potato, or seasoned waffle fries). As a regular diner, I can confidently say the food is always consistent and the service is quick and attentive. What can I say, Duffy's is a Staten Island favorite for a reason. Their burgers are the best, but their pastrami sandwich is criminally underrated.
2. Sandwich and Pickle
If you are looking for old-school, thick-cut pastrami, Sandwich and Pickle will become your new favorite lunch spot. Located on Richmond Avenue, this cute and quaint restaurant proves good things come in small packages. Once you enter, you are greeted by darling decor and a friendly wait staff. Although you are surrounded by cute wallpaper and antique china, the sandwich was undoubtedly the star of the show. All it took was one bite to know this was the real deal: a true classic, served on rye with brown mustard. Don't forget the pickle on the side. All you need to complete the meal is a fizzy Dr. Brown. Some bonus items you must try are their yummy steak fries, homemade coleslaw, and homemade blueberry perogies. Make sure you bring along a fellow pastrami lover because this sandwich is one they will never forget. Sandwich and Pickle is a Staten Island hidden gem, and I hope you all get the chance to check them out!
3. Ronnie's Sandwich Shoppe
Ronnie’s is the place to be if you’re looking for thin-cut pastrami packed with flavor. Their pastrami reuben is served on a golden roll with crunchy sauerkraut and tangy mustard. It might be hard to believe, but I promise, Ronnie’s makes driving on Hylan Boulevard worth it. Their sandwiches are always prepared with the freshest ingredients, and they update their menu daily with mouth-watering specials. My incredible friends from work introduced me to Ronnie’s. Now it's my turn to share it with all of my readers. Rumor has it, they serve the best crinkle-cut fries in the world.
Pickup/ Delivery Only: 432 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY 10301
4. Panino Rustico
You know the saying, when in Rome, do as the Romans do? Well, when in Panino Rustico, order a panini. Their pastrami panini is certainly visually appetizing, and it has substance to prove it's not just a pretty face. Whenever I dine at Panino Rustico, I order a P33 (hot pastrami with melted swiss and pickles) served with a light side salad. I recommend trying their truffle parmesan fries, always served hot and crispy. More reasons to try Panino Rustico? Their crunchy panini bread not only adds sensational texture but reinvents pastrami in a modern way. For dessert, order a homemade crepe with Nutella and strawberries. Try out one of their two locations to elevate your lunch experience.
Pickup/ Delivery: 895 Huguenot Ave, Staten Island, NY 10312
5. Towne Deli
Towne Deli, opened since 1971, is located on the tip of the South Shore and remains a tried and true Staten Island classic. Whether you need to cater for your next family event, or looking for a chill spot to dine with some friends, Towne Deli never disappoints. They've been opened for over 50 years, so it's safe to say, they know a thing or two when it comes to sandwiches. They serve pastrami on either a roll or on their seasoned panini bread (towninis, as they call them), which are perfect for sharing. Add a side of curly fries to complete the order. What more can a gal ask for?
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