Market Deli & Grocery

- 1388 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021

### Introduction / Overview

In a city filled with countless delis and corner stores, some places rise above the rest to become true neighborhood institutions. Market Deli & Grocery is one of those spots. Located on First Avenue, this isn't just a place to grab a snack; it's a "First class spot," as one local affectionately calls it. Known for its unreal sandwiches and affordable prices, this deli has earned a loyal following on the Upper East Side. It’s a place where the quality of the food is matched only by the warmth of the people who run it, creating a truly special community hub.

The core of Market Deli & Grocery's reputation is built on its delicious and diverse menu. The two older gentlemen who work the grill are hailed as sandwich masters, capable of crafting anything you can imagine. From a classic **bacon, egg & cheese on a bagel** to the quintessential **chopped cheese** and a traditional **Reuben**, the sandwiches are described as "phenomenal." The fact that this high-quality fare is also "very affordable for this neighborhood" is a major draw for locals. The menu reflects a deep understanding of what New Yorkers crave: comforting, delicious food that is both accessible and satisfying.

What truly sets this deli apart is the atmosphere and the people. The staff operates like a family, and they extend that same warmth to their customers, treating regulars like one of their own. This personal touch fosters a sense of community that transcends a simple business transaction. The owner's kindness and attention to detail, even in small gestures like caring for a neighborhood cat, speak volumes about the character of the place. It’s this genuine care for both the people and the animals in the neighborhood that makes Market Deli & Grocery a place worth supporting. It’s more than just a place to get food; it’s a place where people feel welcome and appreciated, a true gem in the urban landscape.

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### Location and Accessibility

Market Deli & Grocery is located at 1388 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021. Its position on First Avenue on the Upper East Side makes it a highly convenient spot for residents and those in the surrounding area. First Avenue is a major north-south thoroughfare in Manhattan, providing easy access via walking, public buses, or even a short trip from nearby subway stations. Its central location in the neighborhood means it serves as a daily destination for many locals grabbing their morning coffee or a quick lunch.

The deli’s service model is focused on convenience and speed, catering to the busy New York lifestyle. Primary service options include **takeout** and **delivery**, which are essential for customers who need to grab a meal quickly and get on with their day. This setup is perfect for a **quick visit**, whether you're a regular stopping by for your usual order or a first-timer just passing through. While there is no explicit information about physical accessibility, the nature of a street-level deli often makes it relatively easy to enter for most patrons. The option for paid street parking is also available, which can be a valuable, albeit sometimes challenging, amenity in a dense urban environment.

In addition to these service options, the deli also embraces modern payment methods. Customers can pay with **credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments**, making transactions quick and seamless. This blend of traditional deli charm and modern convenience is a key part of its appeal. The focus on efficiency and a no-fuss experience ensures that you can get your food fast without sacrificing quality. The fact that the staff is known for their friendly, family-like treatment of customers also makes the takeout experience a pleasant one, adding a personal touch that is often missing from larger establishments.

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### Services Offered

• Deli Sandwiches: Known for "unreal" and "phenomenal" sandwiches, with a wide variety of classic New York options from breakfast sandwiches to reubens and chopped cheese.

• Grilled Foods: Features a grill station where skilled cooks create made-to-order sandwiches and hot foods, ensuring freshness and quality.

• General Grocery Items: Functions as a traditional deli and bodega, offering a selection of general grocery items for quick, convenient shopping.

• Takeout: Offers a streamlined takeout service, perfect for customers on the go who need to grab their food quickly.

• Delivery: Provides a reliable delivery service, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite sandwiches and other foods from the comfort of their home or office.

• Community Hub: Serves as a local hub where the staff treats customers like family, creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that goes beyond a simple retail experience.

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### Features / Highlights

• Unreal and Affordable Sandwiches: The most significant highlight is the quality and affordability of their sandwiches. Patrons consistently praise the food as "phenomenal" and a great value for the neighborhood.

• Friendly, Family-Like Atmosphere: The staff's kindness and the feeling of being treated "like family" are key features. This personal connection makes the deli a beloved spot in the community.

• Classic New York Fare: Specializing in classic deli staples like bacon, egg & cheese, chopped cheese, and reubens, the deli offers an authentic taste of New York.

• Community-Focused Owners: The owners are noted for their kind and caring nature, including looking out for neighborhood animals, which instills a sense of trust and encourages local support.

• Fast and Efficient Service: Designed for a **quick visit**, the deli provides speedy service and convenient payment options, perfect for a busy city lifestyle.

• Versatile Offerings: As a deli and grocery store, it offers the convenience of both a fresh-cooked meal and a place to pick up essential items.

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### Contact Information

• Address: 1388 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021

• Phone: (212) 439-9891

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### What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Market Deli & Grocery is about more than just grabbing a bite to eat; it's about supporting a local institution that embodies the best of New York's neighborhood culture. What makes this deli a truly worthwhile choice is the unbeatable combination of phenomenal food, genuine affordability, and a family-like atmosphere. The sandwiches are consistently praised as being some of the best in the area, a testament to the skill and care of the grill cooks. For a neighborhood where dining can be pricey, the ability to get a delicious and filling meal at a fair price is a huge advantage and a key reason for its strong local following.

The feeling of being welcomed and treated like family by the staff is a significant differentiator. This personal connection creates a sense of loyalty and community that larger, more impersonal chains simply cannot replicate. The fact that the owners are known for their kind and caring nature, even in small gestures, speaks volumes about their character and makes you feel good about spending your money there. This is the kind of place that contributes positively to the fabric of the neighborhood, and supporting it feels like supporting a friend.

Furthermore, the practicality of the deli’s service model makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of needs. Whether you’re running late and need a quick takeout meal or you’re at home and want a delicious sandwich delivered, the deli has you covered. The easy payment options also ensure a quick and hassle-free transaction. In a city where convenience and quality are paramount, Market Deli & Grocery delivers on both fronts while also providing a unique sense of warmth and community. It's the ideal spot for anyone looking for a great sandwich and a friendly face, making it a truly first-class spot in the heart of the Upper East Side.

Market Deli & Grocery

1388 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021, USA