American Flag Deli: A Culinary Oasis in the Heart of New York City
Amidst the bustling streets of New York City, a culinary gem awaits discerning diners: the American Flag Deli. Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of the Upper West Side, this iconic establishment has been tantalizing taste buds for over a century, serving up an eclectic menu of traditional Jewish delicacies and contemporary American favorites.
A Century of Excellence
The American Flag Deli traces its roots back to 1929, when it was founded by Morris and Sadie Simon. The couple’s unwavering commitment to quality ingredients and impeccable service quickly earned the deli a reputation for excellence. Through the decades, the deli has undergone renovations and expansions, but its core values have remained unchanged.
A Menu to Satisfy Every Craving
The American Flag Deli’s menu is a symphony of flavors that caters to every palate. From classic New York-style sandwiches piled high with pastrami, corned beef, and turkey, to savory soups, salads, and platters, the choices are endless.
Signature Sandwiches:
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Pastrami on Rye: A legendary creation that showcases the deli’s world-renowned pastrami, thinly sliced and piled on rye bread with tangy mustard.
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Corned Beef on Potato Pancake: A mouthwatering combination of tender corned beef and crispy potato pancakes, served with creamy horseradish sauce.
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Turkey on Challah: A classic sandwich featuring juicy turkey breast on fluffy challah bread, topped with stuffing, gravy, and cranberry sauce.
Homemade Specialties:
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Matzo Ball Soup: Comforting and flavorful, this classic Jewish dish features fluffy matzo balls swimming in a savory chicken broth.
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Potato Latkes: Crispy and golden brown, these potato pancakes are a beloved Hanukkah tradition, served with applesauce and sour cream.
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Knishes: Flaky pastry dough filled with savory fillings such as potato, spinach, or meat, creating a satisfying and portable treat.
Ambiance and Atmosphere:
Stepping into the American Flag Deli is like stepping back in time. The vintage decor, with its high ceilings, checkered tile floors, and antique cash register, evokes a sense of nostalgia and charm. The friendly staff is always on hand to greet customers with a warm smile and provide attentive service.
Celebrity Clientele
Over the years, the American Flag Deli has attracted a loyal following of celebrities, politicians, and dignitaries. Former President Barack Obama, comedian Jerry Seinfeld, and actor Robert De Niro are just a few of the notables who have indulged in the deli’s culinary delights.
Critics’ Acclaim
The American Flag Deli has consistently earned rave reviews from food critics and culinary publications. The New York Times hailed it as "a temple for the masses," while Time Out New York praised it as "a neighborhood treasure where the only constant is the quality."
Awards and Recognitions:
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Zagat Survey: "Top 10 Best Delis in New York City"
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Citysearch: "Best Deli in New York City"
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New York Magazine: "Best Corned Beef in the City"
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the hours of operation?
A: Monday-Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Q: Is there a dress code?
A: No, the American Flag Deli has a casual atmosphere.
Q: Do you accept reservations?
A: No, the deli operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?
A: Yes, the menu offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan sandwiches and salads.
Q: Can I order online?
A: Yes, you can order online for pickup or delivery through third-party platforms such as Seamless and Grubhub.
References:
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American Flag Deli Website: https://www.americanflagdeli.com/
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The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/18/dining/american-flag-deli-new-york.html
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Time Out New York: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/restaurants/american-flag-deli
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Zagat Survey: https://www.zagat.com/r/american-flag-deli-new-york-city