A Backstory in —Carnegie Deli— Every Bite
Our Story
Rooted in Jewish deli tradition and New York pride, Carnegie Deli opened its doors in 1937 just a matzo ball’s throw from Manhattan’s theater district.
The flagship store rose to fame in the 1970s under co-owners Leo Steiner and Milton Parker.
It became a regular haunt for entertainment industry elites like Robin Williams, Mel Brooks and Stevie Wonder. It continued to attract celebrity regulars like Stephen Spielberg, Alec Baldwin and Conan O'Brien decades later.
Today, the Carnegie Deli brand is owned by Parker's granddaughter, Sarri Harper, who upholds the same standards that earned Carnegie its iconic name.
By pairing overstuffed sandwiches with larger-than-life New York-centric service,
Carnegie Deli became an indelible piece of New York history.
A Show-Stopping Slice Thru Time
1937
Established in 1937, Carnegie Deli quickly became a staple of New York’s Jewish delicatessen culture.
1958
Carnegie Deli thrived with hosts Max, Lou, and Bernie at the helm. Take a look at the menu to see what’s changed over the years!
1962
Carnegie Deli was a legendary spot in New York’s comedy scene, where veteran comedians like Berle, Youngman, and Mason mingled with newcomers. It became a rite of passage for young comics, who often tested their jokes there before hitting nearby clubs. The deli served as an informal stage, shaping the city’s signature style of humor.
1979
Mimi Sheraton’s 1979 New York Times review called Carnegie Deli’s pastrami and corned beef “simply wonderful,” rating it “Tops” for taste. The response was instant—lines formed that day, many holding the paper, and the deli ran out of pastrami by mid-afternoon.
1984
Woody Allen directed and starred in the film Broadway Danny Rose. Scenes filmed at Carnegie Deli open and close the movie, giving it a nostalgic, authentic New York vibe.
1990
Carnegie Deli made a tradition out of honoring entertainers, comedians, and public figures—especially those tied to New York or entertainment—with massive, uniquely crafted sandwiches. Each one had a personality, often tied to the celeb’s reputation, or a play on words.
2011
Carnegie Deli opened at Madison Square Garden, allowing fans to enjoy its iconic offerings during events at "The World's Most Famous Arena."
2013
Comedian and TV personality Steve Harvey filmed an episode of his daytime talk show “Steve Harvey” at Carnegie Deli. During the segment, he surprised Sarri Harper with an impromptu matchmaking event to help her find Mr. Right!
2018
To promote the Emmy-award winning Prime Original series "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," Amazon partnered with Carnegie Deli to create a nostalgic pop-up experience. This one-of-a-kind immersive deli transported visitors to Carnegie Deli in the 1950s, with everything from décor, to pricing, to the menu, reflecting New York City as depicted in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
2024
Carnegie Deli made a notable return to the U.S. Open in 2024, bringing its iconic New York deli experience to tennis fans at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens.
Today
Carnegie Deli continues to share its storied heritage with both longtime fans and new customers through seasonal locations at Saratoga Race Course and The Belmont Stakes. In addition, Carnegie Deli has recently collaborated with Temple Bar to create a “Deli After Dark”, as well as collaborating with NYC restaurants Serendipity 3 and Black Tap.
From Midtown —to Your— Front Step
Nostalgia’s never been easier to get at home, with our iconic pastrami, creamy cheesecake, and old-school New York charm delivered right to your door.