5 Best Delis in America, According to Chefs

If you think all delis are the same, think again. The best delis are more than just a place to grab a quick meal— they’re institutions where tradition, technique and flavor come together to create something unforgettable. From towering pastrami stacks to hand-carved cured meats, a great deli knows how to make even the simplest ingredients shine. “The first thing I do when I walk into a deli isn’t look at the menu—I look at the meat case,” says butcher and chef Thomas Odermatt, founder of Roli Roti Food Trucks and Butcher’s Bone Broth. “The meats better look fresh, vibrant, and properly cared for.” Additionally, “the color and moisture of the meat matters,” he says. “And just as important: the place should be packed,” says Chef Thomas. “A busy deli means the meats are moving, not sitting in a refrigerator for days losing life and character.” Another thing Chef Thomas notices in a deli is the smell. “I pay attention to the freshly baked bread in the air and the rhythmic hum o...