Delis hold a cherished place in the tapestry of American culture, tracing their origins to Jewish immigrants who arrived in the U.S. in the mid-19th and early 20th centuries. It didn't take long for their rich culinary traditions (including food preservation methods like pickling) and communal spirit to lead to the creation of delicatessens (which translates to "delicacies" in German).
Jewish delis became essential hubs for gathering, sharing meals, and maintaining their heritage, particularly in cities like New York and Los Angeles. Iconic delis such as Katz's Delicatessen in New York City, founded in 1888, and Canter's Deli in Los Angeles, which opened in 1931, are still gastronomic landmarks in American food history. Katz's, famed for its hand-carved pastrami on rye and iconic appearances in films like "When Harry Met Sally…," exemplifies the deli's role in shaping urban cultural identity. Similarly, Canter's in Los Angeles is renowned for its extensive array of Jewish classics, like matzo ball soup and corned beef sandwiches, attracting a diverse clientele and fostering a strong sense of community across generations.
These historic delis have not only preserved Jewish culinary traditions but have also significantly influenced American food culture with iconic dishes that have become staples nationwide. Once primarily found in Jewish neighborhoods, items like knishes and bagels with lox are now celebrated across the country.
In the 21st century, delis continue to thrive, adapting to contemporary tastes while preserving old-world recipes. The modern deli has evolved to encompass a variety of offerings, often blending influences from different cuisines. Diners and food enthusiasts can expect to find deli menus today that feature a harmonious mix of classics and innovative twists. Sandwiches piled high with corned beef, pastrami, and brisket are staples, complemented by sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and pickles. Breakfast items such as bagels with cream cheese, lox, and assorted spreads are ubiquitous, as are soups like cabbage borscht and chicken noodle. Additionally, many delis now offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options, catering to a wider range of dietary needs and preferences.
Today, the term "deli" signifies more than just a place to eat; it embodies a cultural institution where food serves as a bridge between past and present. Whether in bustling metropolitan areas or smaller towns across America, delis continue to be beloved destinations where people can enjoy good food, share stories, and celebrate a tradition that has become an integral part of the American culinary landscape.
Want to know which delis are worth a visit near you? Stacker examined data from Yelp, collected in November 2024, to find the highest-rated delis in Columbus. In an effort to highlight independent businesses and local chains, restaurants with seven or more locations in Yelp's data were not included. Keep reading to see if your favorite deli made the list.
Note: The photos in this article are stock images and do not necessarily depict the specific restaurants listed or the dishes they serve.
- Rating: 3.4/5 (10 reviews)
- Address: 59 Spruce St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Bagels
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 3.4/5 (122 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 6115 McNaughten Center Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Bakeries, Bagels, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 3.6/5 (100 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 95 North Grant Ave. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Grocery, Beer, Wine & Spirits, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 3.6/5 (31 reviews)
- Address: 3012 East Broad St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Bagels, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 3.7/5 (633 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 475 South 3rd St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Salad
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 3.8/5 (183 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 2770 North High St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Grocery, Delis, Health Markets
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 3.8/5 (32 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 66 East Broad St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Bagels, Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 3.9/5 (23 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 3651 Karl Road Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Delis, Breakfast & Brunch
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 3.9/5 (27 reviews)
- Address: 1119 South Hamilton Road Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Salad, Burgers, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 3.9/5 (62 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 59 Spruce St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Pizza, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 4.0/5 (260 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 3296 North High St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Cafes
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 4.1/5 (98 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 37 West Broad St. Ste 50 Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Delis, Burgers, American
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 4.3/5 (489 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 898 Mohawk St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Desserts
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 4.5/5 (17 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 330 West Spring St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 4.5/5 (12 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 2400 West Dublin-Granville Road Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Delis, Imported Food, Russian
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 4.8/5 (6 reviews)
- Address: 1170 East Weber Road Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Salad, Delis, Pizza
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 4.9/5 (7 reviews)
- Address: 1784 East Dublin Granville Road Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Delis, Juice Bars & Smoothies, Cafes
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 4.9/5 (645 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 2980 East Broad St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Delis, Breakfast & Brunch, Cafes
- Read more on Yelp
- Rating: 5.0/5 (6 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1546 North High St. Columbus, Ohio
- Categories: Street Vendors, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
This story features data reporting by Wade Zhou, writing by Cynthia Rebolledo, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 191 metros.
