We might be 2,408 miles—give or take—from New York City, but that doesn’t mean Phoenix is without its Big Apple-inspired delis.
In fact, many of the Valley’s best delis were founded by New York transplants who brought their family recipes and traditions west. They did it so well that some have remained local institutions for 50 to 75 years. Nothing speaks to greatness quite like longevity.
So the next time you’re craving warm pastrami, towering sandwiches, or an everything bagel, look no further than these seven standout delis across Phoenix.
Zookz Sandwiches
Inspired by the hollowed-out sandwiches her grandmother Berdjoui made while growing up in Tripoli, Libya, on the Mediterranean Sea, founder Carole Meyer always dreamed of sharing the ultimate comfort food from her childhood. When she couldn’t find the unique tool her grandmother used to hollow out the bread, Meyer invented and patented her own, giving birth to the woman-owned, hand-crafted concept known as Zookz.
Order favorites like The Biltmore with ham, crisp bacon, and creamy picante buttermilk sauce; The Mediterranean with turkey, feta, parmesan, and house-made lemon aioli; or Daybreak in Mexicali with poached eggs and pork chorizo. Pair your sandwich with the black bean and chipotle potato salad, then finish with a mimosa or fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Even the bread reflects the restaurant’s commitment to homemade goodness, arriving fresh from the local Capistrano Bakery, with gluten-free options from Gluten Free Creations. 100 E. Camelback Rd. Ste. 192, Phoenix; and 3164 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, zookzsandwiches.com
DeFalco’s Italian Deli and Grocery
The DeFalco family immigrated from Italy carrying generations of recipes and traditions with them. In 1974, they opened DeFalco’s in Scottsdale, creating a combination grocery store and scratch-made deli stocked with imported Italian goods, house-made specialties, and an extensive menu of sandwiches, pastas, and pizzas.
If it’s your first visit, start with the cheesesteak or the Italian Combo, but don’t overlook the famous meatballs. With rotating daily specials and recipes that have been in the family for more than a century, DeFalco’s offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Scottsdale. 2334 N. Scottsdale Rd. a133, Scottsdale, defalcosdeli.com
Miracle Mile Deli
Brooklyn native Jack Grodzinsky founded Miracle Mile Deli in 1949, and more than 75 years later, it remains family-owned and operated. The signature Straw Sandwich, piled high with hot pastrami, sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese on an onion roll, is a Valley classic. Thanks to social media, the Mile Burger has developed its own following, stacked high on a Kaiser roll with the deli’s famous dressing.
Local partnerships with Noble Bread, Strictly From Scratch, and Willie Itule Produce keep the ingredients fresh, while catering makes it easy to enjoy the deli outside of its Central Phoenix dining room. 4433 N. 16th St., Phoenix, miraclemiledeli.com
The Delicatessen by Chef Joey
This classic New York Jewish-style deli from award-winning chef Joey Maggiore celebrates the iconic flavors and traditions of the Big Apple, featuring house-cooked, hand-carved meats. Order the Brooklyn Style Sandwich, stacked with smoked pastrami, house-cured corned beef, provolone, and coleslaw, or build your own bagel with signature cream cheese flavors like Charcuterie or Hot Honey Bacon & Cheddar.
Guests also rave about the Potato Latkes, Little Italy Sub, and nostalgic New York egg creams. The old-school diner atmosphere, paired with its bold modern design touches, makes it right for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. 12811 N. Tatum Blvd., Scottsdale, thedelicatessen.com
Scott’s Generations
The Snyder family opened Scott’s Generations in 1989 with the dream of bringing an authentic kosher New York deli to the Valley. More than 35 years later, the family-run restaurant still serves house-made soups, salads, cheesecakes, knishes, traditional deli meats, and smoked fish flown in from the East Coast. Breakfast is served all day, with everything from build-your-own omelets and griddle favorites to hearty specialties like the “Breakfast of Champions” steak and eggs or a classic bagel and lox platter. If you prefer something lighter, Becky’s Famous Housemade Granola is a longtime favorite. Whether you’re stopping in for all-day breakfast or lunch, this old-school deli is a winner. 742 E. Glendale Ave. #142, Phoenix, scottsgenerations.com
Chompie’s
For nearly 50 years, this family-owned New York-style deli and bakery has served everything from towering sandwiches and traditional Jewish comfort food to house-baked breads, pastries, and all-day breakfast. The menu is enormous, but the Scottsdale Stacked Cragel—with three meats, cream cheese, potato pancakes, fried eggs, and habanero jam—is a must for hearty appetites. And if you need latkes in your life, Grandma Sara’s Famous Potato Pancakes, hand-grated and crispy, are waiting for you. Multiple locations, chompies.com
Duck and Decanter
Established in 1972, “The Duck” is an award-winning, family-run staple that has weathered plenty of change over the past 50-plus years. But its commitment to quality and innovation suggests it will be around for many more. Walking into the iconic A-frame feels like stepping into a European market.
Build your own sandwich at the counter, or order a favorite like the Fiery Italian with roasted turkey breast, Genoa salami, spicy brown mustard, and French bread, or the Vermont Treat with sliced apples, cheddar cheese spread, and honey-glazed ham. The menu also includes soups and salads, along with wine and other local goods. If you can, grab a seat upstairs among the exposed timber beams. 1651 E. Camelback Rd., duckanddecanter.com
