Looking for the best roast beef sandwich in NYC without wasting time? This guide compares classic Brooklyn institutions and Manhattan delis by neighborhood, price range, and exactly what to order. You’ll see where to go for a proper roast beef au jus NYC experience, where to find a classic roast beef sandwich NYC locals still line up for, and what to expect before you arrive. This guide is curated to help you choose fast.
Table of Contents
- Quick Picks
- Best Roast Beef Sandwich in NYC: Top Picks
- How to Choose the Right Spot
- Mistakes to Avoid
- FAQ
Quick Picks
| Place | Best for | Neighborhood | Price | What to order | Quick tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brennan & Carr | Classic au jus dip | Sheepshead Bay – Brooklyn | $10–20 | Roast Beef Sandwich (with au jus dip) | Ask for extra dip |
| Roll N Roaster | Retro Brooklyn landmark | Sheepshead Bay – Brooklyn | $10–20 | Roast Beef with Cheese | Cheese is the classic combo |
| Katz’s Delicatessen | Hand-carved deli style | Lower East Side – Manhattan | $20–30 | Roast Beef Sandwich (hand-carved) | Expect larger portions |
| David’s Brisket House | Thick-cut deli meats | Bedford-Stuyvesant – Brooklyn | $20–30 | Roast Beef Sandwich / Brisket Sandwich | Verify menu wording |
| Sunny & Annie’s Deli | 24-hour Manhattan option | East Village – Manhattan | $10–20 | Roast Beef Sandwich (plus creative options) | Good late-night stop |
Best Roast Beef Sandwich in NYC: Top Picks
1) Brennan & Carr
Official links / map links
1) Brennan & Carr
- Vibe: Old-school Brooklyn sandwich counter
- Why go: Iconic institution known for roast beef au jus NYC locals recommend
- What to order: Roast Beef Sandwich (with au jus dip)
- Price range: ~$12–16 | $10–20 per person
- Neighborhood: Sheepshead Bay – Brooklyn
- Closest subway: Avenue U (Q train)
- Best time to go: Before peak lunch or early dinner hours
- Insider tip: Ask for extra au jus if you like your sandwich dipped generously
2) Roll N Roaster
- Vibe: Retro fast-food style landmark
- Why go: Famous for roast beef sandwiches with melted cheese
- What to order: Roast Beef with Cheese
- Price range: ~$10–15 | $10–20 per person
- Neighborhood: Sheepshead Bay – Brooklyn
- Closest subway: Sheepshead Bay (B, Q trains)
- Best time to go: Afternoon or evening; open late (closes around 1 AM)
- Insider tip: Order cheese if you want the classic house style
3) Katz’s Delicatessen
- Vibe: Legendary NYC deli with counter service
- Why go: Hand-carved meats and large portions
- What to order: Roast Beef Sandwich (hand-carved)
- Price range: ~$25–30 | $20–30 per person
- Neighborhood: Lower East Side – Manhattan
- Closest subway: 2nd Ave (F) / Delancey St–Essex St (F, M, J, Z)
- Best time to go: Earlier in the day to avoid heavier crowds
- Insider tip: Portions are generous—consider sharing if you’re not very hungry
4) David’s Brisket House
- Vibe: Traditional Jewish-style deli
- Why go: Thick-cut meats and classic preparation
- What to order: Roast Beef Sandwich / Brisket Sandwich (verify wording)
- Price range: ~$18–22 | $20–30 per person
- Neighborhood: Bedford-Stuyvesant – Brooklyn
- Closest subway: Nostrand Ave (A, C trains)
- Best time to go: Before 8 PM closing time
- Insider tip: Confirm exact sandwich wording if you want roast beef specifically
5) Sunny & Annie’s Deli
- Vibe: Casual 24-hour neighborhood deli
- Why go: Strong Manhattan coverage and creative sandwich menu
- What to order: Roast Beef Sandwich (plus creative options)
- Price range: ~$10–15 | $10–20 per person
- Neighborhood: East Village – Manhattan
- Closest subway: 1st Ave (L train)
- Best time to go: Late night or early morning
- Insider tip: Check availability if visiting during off-hours
How to Choose the Right Spot
- Want the most classic roast beef au jus NYC experience? → Brennan & Carr.
- Prefer cheese and a retro vibe? → Roll N Roaster.
- Looking for a Manhattan deli with hand-carved meat? → Katz’s.
- Want thick deli-style slices? → David’s Brisket House.
- Need a late-night option? → Sunny & Annie’s Deli.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Not specifying “roast beef” if the menu also lists brisket.
- Assuming au jus is automatic—ask to confirm.
- Visiting close to closing without verifying hours.
- Expecting identical portion sizes across all locations.
- Skipping price checks—verify current menu prices before ordering.
FAQ
1) How much does a roast beef sandwich cost in NYC?
Most options on this list fall between $10–20 per person, with some deli-style locations in the $20–30 range. Always verify current pricing before visiting.
2) Where can I find a classic roast beef sandwich NYC locals love?
Brooklyn spots like Brennan & Carr and Roll N Roaster are known for their classic roast beef style and long-standing reputation.
3) What should I order for the full experience?
If available, try the roast beef sandwich with au jus dip. At Roll N Roaster, the version with cheese is the house favorite.
4) Is roast beef the same as brisket?
No. Roast beef is typically roasted and sliced, while brisket is often braised or slow-cooked. Check the menu wording carefully.
5) Are there late-night roast beef options in NYC?
Sunny & Annie’s Deli is open 24 hours, but verify roast beef availability during late-night hours.