Katz's deli at 205 east houston street is exactly the kind of authentic nyc institution tourists should seek out instead of times square garbage but honestly the main line is absolutely brutal on weekends sometimes 90 minutes for a sandwich. Here's the secret every new yorker knows: walk straight to the takeout window on the right side of the building

Same exact hand carved pastrami sandwich $28.95 same legendary rye bread same everything but you skip that insane sit down line completely. Eat it standing at the metal counter like a proper new yorker or grab it to go and walk 2 blocks to seward park. The mustard they give you is insanely good trust me

Timing matters get there before 1pm or after 3:30pm to avoid peak lunch chaos. Weekday mornings around 11am are perfect honestly. Dont lose that little paper ticket they give you or they charge you $50 exit fee no joke

Pro move order the pastrami rub instead of lean its fattier and way more flavor. Add pickles theyre free and honestly better than most restaurants entire appetizer menu