Highest-rated Delis in Buffalo by Diners

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Highest-rated delis in Buffalo by diners

Delis hold a cherished place in the tapestry of American culture, tracing their origins to Jewish immigrants who arrived in the U.S. in the mid-19th and early 20th centuries. It didn't take long for their rich culinary traditions (including food preservation methods like pickling) and communal spirit to lead to the creation of delicatessens (which translates to "delicacies" in German).

Jewish delis became essential hubs for gathering, sharing meals, and maintaining their heritage, particularly in cities like New York and Los Angeles. Iconic delis such as Katz's Delicatessen in New York City, founded in 1888, and Canter's Deli in Los Angeles, which opened in 1931, are still gastronomic landmarks in American food history. Katz's, famed for its hand-carved pastrami on rye and iconic appearances in films like "When Harry Met Sally…," exemplifies the deli's role in shaping urban cultural identity. Similarly, Canter's in Los Angeles is renowned for its extensive array of Jewish classics, like matzo ball soup and corned beef sandwiches, attracting a diverse clientele and fostering a strong sense of community across generations.

These historic delis have not only preserved Jewish culinary traditions but have also significantly influenced American food culture with iconic dishes that have become staples nationwide. Once primarily found in Jewish neighborhoods, items like knishes and bagels with lox are now celebrated across the country.

In the 21st century, delis continue to thrive, adapting to contemporary tastes while preserving old-world recipes. The modern deli has evolved to encompass a variety of offerings, often blending influences from different cuisines. Diners and food enthusiasts can expect to find deli menus today that feature a harmonious mix of classics and innovative twists. Sandwiches piled high with corned beef, pastrami, and brisket are staples, complemented by sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and pickles. Breakfast items such as bagels with cream cheese, lox, and assorted spreads are ubiquitous, as are soups like cabbage borscht and chicken noodle. Additionally, many delis now offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options, catering to a wider range of dietary needs and preferences.

Today, the term "deli" signifies more than just a place to eat; it embodies a cultural institution where food serves as a bridge between past and present. Whether in bustling metropolitan areas or smaller towns across America, delis continue to be beloved destinations where people can enjoy good food, share stories, and celebrate a tradition that has become an integral part of the American culinary landscape.

Want to know which delis are worth a visit near you? Stacker examined data from Yelp, collected in November 2024, to find the highest-rated delis in Buffalo. In an effort to highlight independent businesses and local chains, restaurants with seven or more locations in Yelp's data were not included. Keep reading to see if your favorite deli made the list.

Note: The photos in this article are stock images and do not necessarily depict the specific restaurants listed or the dishes they serve.

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#27. Niagara Deli & Pizzeria

- Rating: 3.4/5 (11 reviews)
- Address: 2043 Niagara St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Pizza, Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#26. Tailgate Subs

- Rating: 3.4/5 (97 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 741 Delaware Road Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#25. Doctor Bird's Rasta-Rant

- Rating: 3.4/5 (46 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 3104 Main St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Caribbean
- Read more on Yelp

#24. Joes Deli

- Rating: 3.6/5 (13 reviews)
- Address: 818 Ellicott St. Oishei Children's Hospital Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#23. Omega Deli

- Rating: 3.9/5 (13 reviews)
- Address: 455 Center Road Ste 2 Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

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#22. Elmwood Market

- Rating: 4.1/5 (67 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 214 Elmwood Ave. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Grocery, Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#21. Chris' NY Sandwich Co

- Rating: 4.1/5 (139 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 395 Delaware Ave. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Burgers
- Read more on Yelp

#20. Marcos Italian Deli

- Rating: 4.1/5 (68 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 960 Maple Road Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Italian, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#19. Wegmans Market Cafe

- Rating: 4.2/5 (23 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 601 Amherst St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Cafes, Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#18. Zios Deli and Heroes

- Rating: 4.2/5 (47 reviews)
- Address: 1055 Elmwood Ave. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Sandwiches, Delis, Italian
- Read more on Yelp

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#17. Louie's Deli & Imports

- Rating: 4.2/5 (62 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 8202 Main St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Italian, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#16. Joe's Deli

- Rating: 4.3/5 (188 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1322 Hertel Ave. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#15. Euro Deli and Gifts

- Rating: 4.3/5 (19 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 4166 Union Road Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#14. WiseGuys Pizza South Buffalo

- Rating: 4.3/5 (126 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 1965 Seneca St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Pizza, Italian, Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#13. Sue's Nys Deli The Juicery

- Rating: 4.3/5 (6 reviews)
- Address: 130 South Elmwood Ave. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

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#12. Sue's NY Deli

- Rating: 4.3/5 (105 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 598 Main St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Mediterranean, Vegetarian
- Read more on Yelp

#11. Woodlawn Deli

- Rating: 4.4/5 (20 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 3306 Lake Shore Road Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Pizza, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#10. Sister's Pizzeria and Deli

- Rating: 4.4/5 (26 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 435 Creekside Drive Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Pizza, Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#9. Yummy's Deli & Restaurant

- Rating: 4.4/5 (16 reviews)
- Address: 2097 Seneca St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Chicken Wings, Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#8. Buffalo's Golden Corner

- Rating: 4.5/5 (18 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1715 Jefferson Ave. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Convenience Stores
- Read more on Yelp

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#7. Moura's New York Deli

- Rating: 4.5/5 (43 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 11 Court St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Mediterranean
- Read more on Yelp

#6. Rainbow Deli

- Rating: 4.6/5 (12 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 403 Main St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#5. Guercio & Sons

- Rating: 4.6/5 (75 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 250 Grant St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: Grocery, Fruits & Veggies, Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#4. Montes Grocery & Deli

- Rating: 4.6/5 (59 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 413 Swan St. Buffalo, New York
- Categories: International Grocery, Delis
- Read more on Yelp