Ok, this is my 2nd favorite deli in manhattan. Katz has a better pastrami sandwich but 2nd avenue deli is in a much better location. 2 blocks away from the Orpheum theater and several blocks away from East Village there's plenty to do before and after the meal. This diner is jam packed throughout the day so expect to wait about half an hour before being seated. You're immediately served a fresh bowl of their house pickles (delicious!). Some of the sandwiches on the menu are a bit pricey so expect to pay about $15 a sandwich. I would recommend the pastrami or corn beef sandwich. I didn't have much luck with the corn beef, it was a little dry that day, the pastrami was a little better but not half as tender as Katz. The sandwich I DO come back for time after time is their cow tongue sandwich. You get a choice of lean or fat... choose the fat... this this is soo juice and tender and the flavor of this meat is phenomenal. Stay open minded and give this a try... guaranteed to be a hit!
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