Classic NYC Deli Dinner in the Heart of Times Square

If you’re wandering through Times Square and craving a taste of authentic New York, a deli dinner at USA Brooklyn Deli might just fit the bill. While I haven’t personally sampled this experience, reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect. It’s a simple yet satisfying option for those wanting to enjoy classic NYC comfort food without breaking the bank.

What caught my attention? First, the location—just steps from Broadway, so it’s super convenient for a quick, fulfilling meal after sightseeing or shows. Second, the menu variety—with options ranging from hearty sandwiches to pizza, there’s something for most tastes. One potential downside? The experience is quite straightforward and doesn’t include any fancy theatrics or ambiance, which might matter if you’re after a more immersive or casual dining experience. Still, it’s a solid choice for anyone who appreciates good, honest comfort food with a New York twist.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a quick, budget-friendly meal that captures the essence of NYC’s classic deli fare. It’s also ideal if you’re near Times Square and want a convenient, no-fuss dinner spot to unwind after a busy day exploring the city.

Key Points

• Affordable and straightforward: Great for a casual, no-frills dinner for just $25 per person.
• Location: Perfectly situated near Broadway and Times Square, making it an easy stop.
• Menu variety: Offers classic deli favorites, pizza, and more, with options for different tastes.
• Includes sides and a drink: Makes the meal more filling and satisfying.
• Limited ambiance: It’s a deli, not a fancy restaurant—more about the food than the setting.
• Booking: Most travelers book about a month in advance, so plan ahead.

What to Expect from the Experience

The Classic NYC Deli Dinner at USA Brooklyn Deli is designed to give you a taste of the city’s iconic comfort food in a casual setting. The meal takes about an hour, allowing enough time to relax without feeling rushed, and includes a choice of entrée plus a drink. You also get crispy fries and your choice of coleslaw or potato salad—a classic American duo that complements the sandwiches or pizza.

The Menu Choices

You’ll find a solid lineup of options, each designed to evoke the traditional New York deli vibe:

• Reuben sandwiches: The hot pastrami, corned beef, or turkey options come on toasted buns with Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, pickles, and sauerkraut. These are what you’d expect from a New York deli—meaty, flavorful, and satisfying.
• Hot dog: The black Angus hot dog is topped with sauerkraut and mustard, perfect if you’re craving something quick yet hearty.
• Pizza: The Margherita pizza with mozzarella, burrata, and fresh basil offers a nice break from sandwiches if you prefer something lighter or vegetarian.
• Italian combo sandwich: Mortadella, salami, sopressata, cheeses, arugula, and relish on a sesame hero—definitely filling and packed with flavor.
• Chicken Parmesan: Crispy chicken with tomato sauce and mozzarella, a comfort-food classic.
• Half sandwich with soup: For those wanting a lighter option, this combo gives a taste of both worlds.

What We Love

We loved the authenticity of the menu—these are staples of NYC deli culture, and the focus on hearty, straightforward food really hits the spot after a day of sightseeing. The inclusion of sides and a drink in the price makes it feel like a good deal, especially considering the location. Plus, the convenience of being just a short walk from Broadway and Times Square can’t be overstated; it’s ideal for those who want to eat without straying far from their plans.

What to Keep in Mind

The setting is very much like a traditional deli—no fancy decor or upscale vibe. If you’re after a sit-down, atmospheric dining experience, this might not be the place for you. It’s more about grabbing a solid meal in a no-nonsense environment. Also, alcoholic beverages aren’t included and require an age of 21+ for ordering, so plan accordingly if you want to pair your meal with a drink.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The experience begins at 211 W 43rd St in the afternoon or early evening, with the tour running Monday through Thursday from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Since the experience is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, it tends to offer a more intimate, personal vibe—though it’s still primarily a casual, quick meal rather than a guided tour.

Once seated, you’ll be handed a menu with the diverse options listed earlier. The ordering process is straightforward—select your entrée and drink, and your server will bring everything out quickly. You’ll receive your meal plated with crispy fries—nothing fancy here, but that’s part of the comfort. The choice of coleslaw or potato salad is a nice touch; both are classic deli sides that help balance the richness of the mains.

The sandwiches are served hot and generously filled, with plenty of meat and flavorful toppings. The pizza is a good option if you prefer a vegetarian or lighter choice, with fresh basil adding a bright note. If you’re a soup person, the half sandwich and soup combo is a great way to satisfy your hunger without overdoing it.

Authenticity and Realism

Reviews from other travelers mention that the food is solid—”meaty, flavorful, and satisfying,” as one put it. The atmosphere is described as casual and unpretentious, perfect for a quick meal but not for a romantic or upscale night out. The convenience of being near Times Square means you can easily fit this into an evening of exploring or catching a show without much hassle.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance, especially if visiting during peak times, to secure a spot.
• Expect a typical deli experience—quick, filling, no-frills.
• Consider if you want a sit-down dinner or a quick bite; this experience is best for the latter.
• If you’re traveling with someone who has dietary restrictions, most options seem fairly traditional and hearty, but check specifics if needed.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits those who want authentic NYC comfort food at a good price, close to the heart of Times Square. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer casual dining rather than fine dining, and for anyone looking to satisfy a craving for hearty, familiar food after a busy day of sightseeing. It’s also a great option for groups or small families who want a fuss-free, tasty meal without the worry of finding a reservation or dealing with complicated menus.

The Sum Up

The Classic NYC Deli Dinner in Times Square at USA Brooklyn Deli offers an uncomplicated way to enjoy some of the city’s most iconic flavors. While it’s not a fancy experience, it delivers on authenticity, convenience, and value. For $25, you get a generous meal that includes sides and a drink, all within walking distance of Broadway and the bright lights of Times Square.

This tour is best for travelers who want a reliable, tasty dinner without the fuss—ideal for those who appreciate classic comfort food served quickly and without pretense. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy a slice of New York’s culinary soul after a day of exploring or catching a show.

If you’re craving a simple, satisfying meal and want to stay close to the energy of Times Square, this deli dinner could very well be your ideal choice.

FAQ

Is this experience family-friendly?
While the tour is suitable for most travelers, it doesn’t specifically cater to children or families. However, the menu’s classic comfort foods are generally appealing to kids, and the casual atmosphere makes it an easy stop with family.

Can I book this in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 34 days in advance, and booking is recommended to secure a spot, especially during busy times.

What’s included in the price?
You get one entrée, one drink, crispy fries, and your choice of coleslaw or potato salad. Alcoholic beverages are available but not included and require being 21+.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, the Margherita pizza is vegetarian, and other options like the half sandwich & soup might suit lighter preferences. Check the menu for specific dietary needs.

What are the opening hours?
The experience runs Monday through Thursday from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, making it a flexible option for late afternoon or early evening dining.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour does not include transportation. It starts at a fixed meeting point near Times Square, which is accessible by public transit.

Enjoy your NYC adventure, and if you’re craving a down-to-earth, hearty bite, this deli dinner hits the spot.