Barney Greengrass

We all know the classic Lower Eastside staple “Katz’s Deli,” if not by its life changing pastrami then for its orgasm scene in “When Harry Met Sally.” However, if you want a similar Manhattan experience, head to the Upper Westside’s “Barney Greengrass.” 

This UWS landmark has one of the best Ruben Sandwiches, Latkes, and black/white cookies on the planet (no exaggeration.) In addition this 90+ year old space is drenched in history, character and charm. I mean it! The moment you walk in the door you’ve stepped back into a 1920’s deli shop where the display walls are filled with with product, perfectly designed glass jars/cases of sweets sit at prime eye level for a kid to stare at and beg for, and the counter cases have overflowing deli meats, fish and other delectable farm to shop goods. 

Walking further into the shop you hit the cafe where the yellow walls with fainted hand painted cityscapes have a coat of black from the once upon a time smoke that was collected from smokers. And the old diner tables and the rest of the decor just instantly make you feel like you are in the presence of a mafia action or corrupt cop deal. I can’t help but be addicted to this experience! 

Hollywood agrees that this environmental time machine experience is one of a kind and movies/series like: “You’ve Got Mail,” “Revolutionary Road,” and “billions” all have a scene in the monumental space. “The Sturgeon King” (trademark and logo for Barney Greengrass) is the exact kind of preservation that I am embarrassed to say continue to be wiped from NYC because of the increased rent and the not giving a fuck to architectural preservation.

Below is a mood board of mixed pieces that present a similar vibe. And I hope to run into you at BGG for what I hope to be eternal decades to come!