Deli City Restaurant
About This Spot
Stepping into Deli City Restaurant feels like slipping into a cherished neighborhood corner where time has woven its own comforting rhythm. The modest, bustling space hums with the quiet energy of familiar faces and the clatter of hearty sandwiches being crafted. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, settle in, and savor the simple, soulful pleasures that come with a hand-prepared deli meal.
The atmosphere here is unpretentious and lively, marked by the warmth of a local haunt that has quietly stood the test of decades. The room may feel snug, even a little crowded, but that only adds to the authentic pulse of everyday life—regulars exchanging nods and smiles, staff moving efficiently behind the counter with practiced ease, and the faint aroma of freshly toasted rye mingling with hints of smoky pastrami and sizzle from the kitchen.
What unfolds on your plate mirrors the restaurant’s honest spirit. Each sandwich tells a story of care — from the tender, flavorful layers of a classic Reuben to the satisfying heft of a hot pastrami piled high and paired with a tangy pickle. There’s a comforting familiarity here, made better by small thoughtful touches: the crispness of French fries, the freshly brewed iced tea, the balancing act of savory and tangy that brings each bite to life. The menu feels like a celebration of deli traditions given room to breathe, staying true without pretension.
While the space’s modest size and practical design might not invite lingering over aesthetics, the food and camaraderie fill the room with something more genuine. It’s a destination where quality and tradition meet, tucked into the rhythm of a neighborhood’s daily pulse. For those willing to explore beyond polished exteriors, Deli City offers a warmly honest feast and a quiet connection to a slice of Washington’s culinary history.
What’s Available Here
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Quick visit
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Cash only
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Free of charge street parking
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Free parking lot
Location & Hours
| Monday | 06:00 AM - 04:30 PM | |
| Tuesday | 06:00 AM - 04:30 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 06:00 AM - 04:30 PM | |
| Thursday | 06:00 AM - 04:30 PM | |
| Friday | 06:00 AM - 04:30 PM | |
| Saturday | Closed | |
| Sunday | Closed |
Krishna B Kidambi 27 Dec 2025
The place does not have aesthetics or great service. But their food was great. The pastrami sandwich is amazing (5/5). The French fries smelled amazing but didn’t have much seasoning though..! They were fluffy not crunchy. The place was packed with people in a small space which scared me a little (2/5). But I guess it was everyday regulars. Overall don’t go expecting anything else apart from good food. They have parking but they don’t take cards.
Vicci Zwiezen 18 Dec 2025
Amazing little spot that has been there for 49 yrs. The Best Ruben I've ever had! Fish was so tender and tasty with out a lot of batter. Coleslaw was delicious and the cornbread was sweet and moist. Chicken and rice soup had big chunks of chicken and great flavor. Fries were crispy. Lots of food for very reasonable prices. Will be back anytime we're in the area!
Sleeprell Rice-Brizuela 17 Dec 2025
Deli City Restaurant — Reuben is a Super Showstopper. An exquisite, overstuffed Reuben with extremely tender corned beef and perfectly balanced seasoning — not salty. Toasted rye adds crisp contrast, tangy sauce and sauerkraut brighten the richness, and a subtle buttery finish makes each bite decadently messy. Massive and shareable; don't forget the extra napkins, a fork and knife, and be prepared to split it — easily serves two. Hearty, perfectly balanced, and utterly indulgent — an award‑winning Reuben that demands a second visit.
Margaret Gordon 29 Nov 2025
I have been going here for years and the food is always great, the service is amazing they are very friendly. A little congested parking small but very nice.
Austin Graff 16 Nov 2025
Best pastrami sandwich in DC....by a landslide! A few other places had a decent one (like now closed On Rye in Chinatown), but they were always overpriced and just not worth the money. For under $9, you can get a large hot pastrami sandwich that will rock your taste buds (and it comes with a really, really good pickle). Don't get me wrong. This place doesn't look cool and it's a hike to get there (it's nowhere close to a metro), but it's worth it. It's a 1960s small hut with a orange mural marking its location. When you walk in, it feels like a small cafeteria filled with locals eating their sandwiches. You'll see construction workers and old men in suits and hats having lunch (they aren't open for dinner...darn!). After reading the very old menu, a friendly woman will take your order. Wait until it's ready and pay up front (cash only- there's an ATM at the gas station next door). You can't go wrong here, but the hot pastrami sandwich on wheat with cheese and mustard is to die for. They sell old school Dr Brown's soda, which is fitting. To "make it" on Yelp, you either have to believe in the power of peer reviews and surprise and delight (Rose's Luxury on Barracks Row does this well) or own who you are and don't give a damn. Deli City is the latter and it works...like five star works.
Christopher Covington 16 Nov 2025
Cash only but feels like a family inside. Generous portions and just a great morning spot for me. Reasonably priced..... tip them!
James Klein 13 Nov 2025
Incredibly delicious sandwiches. Super nice owner. Will be back again
Bruce Kieloch 27 Oct 2025
This place is a gem. Like stepping back to the 1970's (in a good way). Corned beef and pastrami so tender they fall apart and dissolve on your tongue. Waitresses call you "baby" and "honey." LOVE IT