Kensington Kosher Delicatessen

- 27 Middle Neck Rd, Great Neck, NY 11021

Kensington Kosher Delicatessen, affectionately known to locals as "KD," is an iconic culinary institution that has been a cornerstone of the Great Neck, New York, dining scene since its establishment in 1975. More than just a deli, this spot is a true Kosher restaurant and a beloved part of the Long Island food landscape, representing the enduring tradition of classic New York deli fare. Serving generations of New Yorkers, KD is the destination for high-quality, generously portioned sandwiches, homemade soups, and traditional side dishes that evoke a comforting, timeless atmosphere.

The restaurant specializes in what many consider the definitive deli experience. The menu is a testament to quality meats and classic preparation, featuring the likes of hot, lean Corned Beef and perfectly seasoned Pastrami. A real customer raves, "The Corned Beef is absolutely mouth-watering and of course the hot dogs are second to none. One of the best corned beef sandwiches I've ever had." The Matzo Ball Soup is another standout, praised as "delicious, just like grandma's," confirming the deli's commitment to authentic, soulful flavors.

Patrons can choose from an extensive selection of sandwiches, including massive Extra-Heavy Combination Sandwiches. Popular combos include the hearty Corned Beef & Pastrami ($25.85), the savory Pastrami & Roast Beef ($25.85), and the traditional Corned Beef & Tongue ($25.85). For a truly authentic experience, New Yorkers often seek out the signature Paulie Special (Sliced brisket on toasted club with au jus gravy & horseradish sauce), a local legend noted for its rich flavor and non-overpowering horseradish kick.

Beyond the main courses, Kensington Kosher Delicatessen provides a full menu of deli essentials. Appetites can be satisfied with sides such as Low-Fat Coleslaw ($6.30), savory Knishes ($6.50), French Fries ($6.50), and the highly-recommended Half Sour Pickles ($1.50). For those needing bulk items, a variety of fresh Sliced Meat, including half-pound portions of Corned Beef ($20.80), Pastrami ($20.80), and Chopped Liver ($15.00), are available for purchase to take home. The meal can be perfectly finished with classic desserts like Apple Strudel ($3.50) or a quintessential New York Black & White Cookie ($3.50).

Kensington Kosher Delicatessen is ideally situated at 27 Middle Neck Rd in Great Neck, NY 11021, placing it in a prime, central location on Long Island. This address is right in the heart of Great Neck’s vibrant commercial area, making it a convenient destination for local residents and visitors alike.

Accessibility is a key advantage for this location. It is conveniently located less than a two-minute walk from the Great Neck Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) Station on the Port Washington line. This makes it an effortless stop for commuters heading to or from Manhattan and other parts of Long Island, solidifying its status as a premier lunch spot.

For drivers, the deli is easily accessible off of major routes. While parking in the area is managed via Paid street parking, the proximity to the LIRR and the main thoroughfare of Middle Neck Road ensures it is simple to reach. Furthermore, the establishment is committed to physical accessibility, featuring a Wheelchair accessible entrance and Wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring all members of the community can enjoy their meal comfortably.

Understanding the varied pace of New York life, Kensington Kosher Delicatessen provides a comprehensive suite of service options for maximum customer convenience.

• Delivery
• In-store pickup
• In-store shopping
• Takeout
• Dine-in (featuring a cozy counter and table area)
• Slicing of fresh meats and salads for take-home purchase
• Catering (available upon inquiry)

This long-established deli offers several unique features that distinguish it as a premier destination for Kosher and classic deli cuisine in the New York region.

• Iconic Longevity: Established in 1975, the deli boasts decades of serving the Great Neck community, providing a sense of history and trust in the quality of its products.
• Authentic Kosher Certification: Categorized as a Kosher restaurant, it strictly adheres to Kashrut laws, making it a reliable and preferred choice for the local Jewish community.
• Signature Sandwiches: Known for their overstuffed, superior quality meats, including the highly-rated Corned Beef and the famous, proprietary "Paulie Special."
• Homemade Soups: Offers traditional, comforting items like the delicious Matzo Ball Soup, often likened to "grandma's" homemade version.
• Accessibility Focus: Provides both a Wheelchair accessible entrance and seating, along with a Gender-neutral restroom, demonstrating a commitment to serving all patrons.
• Convenient Payments: Accepts modern payment methods, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Owner and Staff Dedication: Customer reviews often mention the owner, Joe, as a "perfect gentleman" and note long-time, dedicated staff, reflecting a family-like, welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you are ordering an overstuffed sandwich for delivery or stopping by for a hot bowl of Matzo Ball Soup, here is how you can connect with the deli.

Address: 27 Middle Neck Rd, Great Neck, NY 11021, USA
Phone: (516) 487-2410

For anyone in the New York area, particularly those on Long Island, Kensington Kosher Delicatessen offers an unmatched, worth-while experience rooted in tradition and quality. What sets this establishment apart and makes it the clear choice is its uncompromising commitment to the classic Kosher deli model, which has sustained it for nearly fifty years.

Firstly, the quality of the core product is indisputable. A true New York deli is measured by its meats, and the consistently high praise for their Corned Beef and Pastrami—described as mouth-watering and superior—speaks volumes. They offer not just standard sandwiches, but "Extra-Heavy Combination Sandwiches," providing the kind of generous portions that define the ultimate deli experience. This dedication to stacking sandwiches high ensures high value and complete satisfaction.

Secondly, Kensington offers a nostalgic comfort food experience. Items like the homemade soups and traditional side orders (Knishes, Potato Pancakes with Apple Sauce) fulfill a craving for authentic Jewish-American cuisine that can be hard to find executed this well. The welcoming, family-run atmosphere, where the owner is known by name, adds a personal touch that chain restaurants simply cannot replicate.

Finally, the prime location and robust service options solidify its role as a Great Neck staple. Its proximity to the LIRR station makes it an extremely convenient stop for daily commutes, and the availability of dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering means the authentic taste of this iconic deli is accessible for any occasion, from a quick lunch break to a large family event. Choosing Kensington Kosher Delicatessen means choosing a piece of New York culinary history, tradition, and uncompromising flavor.

Kensington Kosher Delicatessen

27 Middle Neck Rd, Great Neck, NY 11021, USA