85th Street Deli

- 85-01 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11421

Introduction / Overview

For New Yorkers, the neighborhood deli is far more than just a convenience store; it is the lifeblood of the city, a reliable source for everything from a morning coffee to a late-night bite. In Jamaica, Queens, the 85th Street Deli embodies this essential role, standing out as a local institution that consistently delivers delicious, high-quality food with the speed and friendly banter the city loves. Serving the community for years, this deli has cultivated a loyal following—a testament to its fantastic food, great prices, and the charismatic staff who make every visit a pleasant one.

This establishment has built a stellar reputation on the foundational promise of a true New York deli: an extensive menu that caters to every craving, from hearty breakfast options to custom-made sandwiches piled high with Boar's Head cold cuts. Customers frequently rave about the food being "awesome and delicious," highlighting its role as an "automatic purchase" for anyone in the vicinity. The vibe is described as nothing short of "awesome," thanks to the dedicated team, notably including a grill master affectionately known as a "flash" for his speed. This combination of culinary skill and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere makes 85th Street Deli a quintessential Queens experience.

While some patrons acknowledge that their offerings are "not the healthiest option," they are unequivocally deemed the "tastiest option." This honesty and focus on classic comfort food, from phenomenal breakfast sandwiches to custom-built heroes, is what keeps locals coming back. The prices are consistently praised as fair, solidifying the deli's status as a reliable and affordable favorite in a constantly evolving city. It is a genuine, old-school New York spot that has maintained its authenticity and quality over time.

The Culinary Landscape

The menu at 85th Street Deli is exhaustive, covering all the staples that define a top-tier New York deli. It's truly a one-stop-shop for any meal of the day. The day begins with a wide selection of Breakfast Sandwiches—from the classic Egg and Cheese Sandwich to the loaded Bacon Egg and Cheese. Patrons can choose their base from a variety of options including bagels, rolls, wraps, or heroes, ensuring a personalized start to their morning. Omelettes, Platters served with home fries and toast, and comforting choices like Pancakes and French Toast are also available. The Coffee and Tea selections, including their signature Iced Trippacino, provide the perfect caffeine kick.

Throughout the rest of the day, the deli transitions into a sandwich powerhouse. They offer a comprehensive list of Custom Sandwiches and Classic Sandwiches using premium Boar's Head products like Ovengold Turkey and Ham. The grill items are where the deli truly shines and earns its high praise. New Yorkers looking for a hot, satisfying meal can choose from a range of Grilled Sandwiches and Burgers. Menu items often include local favorites like the Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich and the hugely popular Chop Cheese, a true New York staple. Other grill options include various Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches and custom burgers, which can be made into a Deluxe platter served with french fries and sides.

Beyond the hot food, the deli also provides Homemade Salads like Tuna, Chicken, and Egg Salad, as well as a full selection of Cold Cuts and Cheeses by the pound for home preparation. This versatility ensures that 85th Street Deli is a valuable resource for both a quick meal and fulfilling grocery needs within the Jamaica community.

Location and Accessibility

85th Street Deli is strategically situated at a highly trafficked point in Queens, making it a fixture for local residents and commuters.

Address: 85-01 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11421, USA

The Jamaica Avenue location places it right in the heart of the bustling Woodhaven/Jamaica area. While accessibility specifics beyond a standard storefront setup are not detailed, its location on a major corner is generally convenient for those traveling by foot, bus, or car. The primary focus of the business model is on speed and efficiency—perfect for a quick stop during a busy New York day.

Services Offered

The deli is optimized for speed and convenience, reflecting the quintessential New York rhythm. Their service options prioritize getting great food into your hands quickly.

• Takeout (Primary Service Model)
• Catering (Implied by large selection of Cold Cuts and prepared foods)
• Delivery (Available through third-party platforms for convenience)
• Quick Visit Planning (Designed for efficiency)

Features / Highlights

What truly sets 85th Street Deli apart are the elements that create a memorable, authentic New York experience:

• Legendary Grill Service: Home to a dedicated grill master, often mentioned in reviews for their exceptional speed—a point of pride and a great benefit for busy New Yorkers.
• High-Quality Ingredients: Features premium Boar's Head meats and cheeses, ensuring a delicious and consistent product in all sandwiches and cold cuts.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts a wide range of payment methods, including Credit cards, Debit cards, NFC mobile payments, and crucially for many in the community, SNAP/EBT.
• Comprehensive Menu: Offers everything from Breakfast and Hot Sandwiches to Cold Cuts by the pound, Salad Platters, and Snacks.
• Established Community Presence: Recognized as a local fixture that has been around for a long time, building a foundation of trust and quality within the neighborhood.

Contact Information

To place a takeout order, inquire about daily specials, or simply connect with the friendly staff:

• Address: 85-01 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11421, USA
• Phone Number: (718) 805-8908

What is Worth Choosing

When you visit 85th Street Deli, you are choosing a slice of authentic Queens life wrapped in a hero or tucked into a foil-wrapped breakfast sandwich. The value here is not just in the food itself, but in the efficiency, reliability, and local charm. The establishment’s dedication to a quick visit means you can count on getting your food fast, even during peak hours, a critical factor for anyone commuting or rushing between appointments in New York.

For first-timers, or those looking for the absolute best, the grill items are a non-negotiable choice. The grill is where the deli’s energy truly comes alive. The custom Chop Cheese sandwich is a must-try; this New York favorite is a messy, flavorful masterpiece that combines chopped grilled meat (often beef) with melted cheese, onions, peppers, and various condiments on a hero roll. It is a dish that defines the local, unapologetically delicious deli experience. Similarly, any of the Hot Sandwiches or Breakfast Sandwiches, especially the Bacon Egg and Cheese, are made with the same speed and care, confirming that the high praise for the staff and the food is well-deserved.

Furthermore, the use of Boar's Head meats signals a commitment to quality ingredients, elevating even the simplest turkey or ham sandwich. This attention to detail, combined with the fact that the deli supports the community by accepting SNAP/EBT payments, makes it an incredibly important and valuable local resource. Choosing 85th Street Deli is choosing a long-standing tradition of excellent, affordable, and quick-service comfort food in the heart of Queens. It’s an easy 10/10 spot that lives up to its neighborhood fame.

85th Street Deli

85-01 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11421, USA