The good old-fashioned Jewish deli seems to be a dying breed. In 2009, journalist David Sax even published an entire book lamenting the decline of these beloved eateries. But luckily, New City Kosher Deli & Restaurant — right in the heart of Rockland County — is still the real deal. “Everybody comes here, and not just Jewish people,” says employee Donna Held. “They come from all over the country — California, Texas, Florida.” We’re pretty sure they’re coming for the pastrami sandwich — the one with tantalizing mounds of fresh, house-prepared meat wedged between two slices of soft rye bread. “People are addicted to it,” says Held. “A lot of people order it with cole slaw and Russian dressing, but there are all sorts of combinations.” You can also get your pastrami fix as a hot, open-faced sandwich, served with either French fries or mashed potatoes. The casual eatery, with waitress service and seating for about 65, is equally busy at lunch and dinner. Held points out that there is no Boar’s Head served here. “Everything is fresh,” she says. “We prepare our own turkeys in the back and slice them fresh.” She also notes the popularity of their corned beef: “Once, on St. Patrick’s Day, I had a guy — I think he was actually Italian — tell me that it was the best corned beef he had ever had.” All this traditional food seems to strike a chord with a wide range of diners. “For a lot of people, it brings back memories of growing up,” says Held. “If you listen, you can hear people talking about what their grandmother used to serve for dinner.”
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