Hot soups, fresh salads by the pound and two-fisted sandwiches stuffed with sliced-to-order premium meats and cheeses—these are some of the foundations of a New York-style delicatessen. Rooted in Jewish and European culinary customs, these special enterprises carry on a tradition that began in the late 1800s in that melting pot called The Big Apple. For Northern snowbirds visiting our Southern shores, a visit to such a deli can make their time here feel even warmer.
Sandwiches, bagels, homemade soups and bottled soft drinks are typical fare. Deli meats and cold salads are usually available by the pound. Some establishments offer a small market so you can stock up on spicy mustards, hearty breads, pickled vegetables and a variety of imported goods.
If you are wondering why these kinds of eateries are so popular along the Grand Strand, consider a couple of statistics. First, Myrtle Beach draws more than 19 million visitors each year and a large number of them are from regions in and around New York. Second, dining is the No. 1 activity among visitors here. (Surprise! Enjoying the beach ranks a close second.)
Demand for these delis also comes from the many locals who know a good thing when they taste it. Who can resist a mile-high, juicy hot pastrami and Swiss on rye with a side of creamy potato salad and a half-sour pickle? You get the picture.
New York Deli, Myrtle Beach
New York Yankees fans, unite and take a bite! You’ll go gaga over the wall-to-wall baseball memorabilia at this bustling deli on Dick Pond Road. Order yourself a warm pastrami sandwich, Reuben or “The Ruth”—ham, turkey, roast beef, Swiss and American cheeses on a poppyseed roll. Don’t forget a side of macaroni salad and a finale of homemade cheesecake for a meal that’s a home run.
