New York City Lunch at USA Brooklyn Deli in Times Square

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If you’re wandering through the bright lights of Times Square and craving a hearty, authentic meal without the tourist trap prices, this lunch experience at USA Brooklyn Deli might just be your perfect midday break. With a focus on classic New York deli favorites and a quick, hassle-free setup, it offers a genuine taste of NYC comfort food in the heart of the city.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s incredibly convenient—your meal is prepared ahead of time, so no waiting in line or fumbling over menus. Second, the extensive menu means you can pick from beloved staples like pastrami Reubens, meatball sandwiches, or hot dogs. Lastly, it’s a great value at under $30, which includes both a hearty lunch and a drink, perfect for fueling up during a busy sightseeing day.

However, a consideration might be that the experience is more about quick, quality food than a sit-down dining experience. It’s ideal if you’re short on time or prefer to eat on the go rather than savoring a leisurely meal. This tour is best suited for food lovers, busy explorers, or those wanting a taste of NYC’s iconic deli culture without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

  • Convenience: Meal ready upon arrival, no wait required.
  • Authenticity: Classic NYC deli options, true to the city’s culinary roots.
  • Value: Includes a substantial lunch and a drink for under $30.
  • Accessibility: Near public transportation, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
  • Flexibility: Options to choose from a variety of popular deli items.
  • Limited Duration: Perfect for a quick refuel during busy sightseeing days.

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour is less about wandering and more about grabbing a satisfying bite with efficiency. The meeting point is at 211 W 43rd St in Times Square, a central location that many will pass through during their NYC adventures. The experience runs daily from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, giving plenty of flexibility to include it in your sightseeing schedule.

The meal setup is straightforward: once you arrive, your meal is already prepared, and you simply choose your preferred item from a list of classic deli dishes. This includes options like Hot Pastrami Reuben, Corned Beef Reuben, Organic Roasted Turkey Reuben, or a Hot Dog, among others. The menu is thoughtfully curated with iconic New York staples, so you get a true taste of the city’s deli heritage.

What’s on the Menu?

The lunch options are designed for hearty appetites and include some of the most beloved deli sandwiches. The Hot Pastrami Reuben features toasted bread, Swiss cheese, and a flavorful juniper berry sauerkraut, topped with Russian dressing. Reviewers mention the meatball parm sandwich as a highlight, with its tender meatballs and gooey mozzarella, echoing the comfort food that NYC is known for.

The hot dog option is made with premium Black Angus beef, topped with sauerkraut and mustard—simple but satisfying. For those seeking something lighter or vegetarian, the pizza choices could also be appealing, including a Margherita pizza with fresh basil.

Drinks and Extras

Your meal also includes a beverage, with options that are likely to be standard soft drinks or bottled water, making it an easy pairing with your chosen food. The inclusivity of taxes and fees means there are no surprise costs—what you see is what you pay.

Why This Experience Works

Ease and Speed are the main selling points. As one reviewer pointed out, “Having my meal ready and waiting was a huge time saver—perfect between visits to the Empire State Building or Broadway shows.” The process is simple: show your mobile ticket, pick your meal, and enjoy.

Authentic flavors get high praise. Many mention that the sandwiches are “just like a real New York deli,” with generous portions and fresh ingredients. The staff is described as friendly and efficient, which adds to the overall smooth experience.

Value for money is another highlight. For under $30, you get a substantial lunch and drink, which is quite reasonable for Times Square. This is especially appealing for budget-conscious travelers who want quality without spending a fortune on sit-down meals.

Accessibility is another plus. The location is near major transit options, making it easy to include this in a busy day of sightseeing without detours.

What to Keep in Mind

While this tour offers great value and convenience, it’s not a formal dining experience. If you’re looking for a relaxed, sit-down meal with table service, this might not be the right fit. Instead, think of it as a quick, satisfying lunch that fits into a jam-packed day of sightseeing.

Some reviewers have noted that the menu might be limited if you’re craving something beyond the classic deli fare. Also, since the experience ends back at the meeting point, it’s best suited for those who want to maximize their time exploring rather than lingering over a meal.

How It Compares to Other Experiences

Though this isn’t a full-blown food tour, it offers a taste of NYC’s deli culture without the complexity or extra cost of a guided food crawl. For travelers who want a straightforward meal, it’s a practical and tasty option. Unlike some other sightseeing tickets that focus solely on views or attractions, this experience combines quick service with authentic flavors.

Final Thoughts

This NYC lunch experience at USA Brooklyn Deli provides a genuine taste of one of the city’s most iconic culinary traditions. The convenience, quality, and affordability make it an excellent choice for busy travelers wanting a hearty meal without the fuss. It’s particularly suited for those who prioritize authentic food, are on a tight schedule, or simply want a satisfying break during their busy day.

If you’re craving a classic New York deli sandwich and want to skip the tourist traps, this experience delivers on flavor and value. Keep in mind that it’s not a leisurely dining affair, but rather a quick, wholesome bite to keep you going.

This is a smart, affordable way to enjoy a slice of NYC life—without the hassle and at a price that won’t break the bank.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is open to most travelers, and service animals are allowed. It’s a family-friendly option for quick, satisfying lunch.

Do I need to bring a printed ticket?
No, a mobile ticket is sufficient. Just show it at the meeting point to get started.

What time does the tour run?
It operates daily from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, giving you plenty of flexibility to fit it into your schedule.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience takes approximately 1 hour, making it perfect for a quick refuel.

Are all taxes and fees included?
Yes, the price of $29.99 covers all taxes and fees, so there are no hidden charges.

Can I order additional menu items?
No, this experience includes one lunch item and one drink. Additional menu options are not included.

Is there a vegetarian option available?
While the menu focuses on classic deli favorites, the pizza options like Margherita might appeal to some vegetarians.

How large are the portions?
Reviews note generous servings, enough to satisfy even hearty appetites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

To sum it up, this lunch tour is an excellent choice for those wanting an authentic NYC deli experience without the fuss or high prices. Perfect for a quick, delicious break in the heart of Times Square, it offers great value, tasty food, and convenience—all essential ingredients for a successful day in the city.