Highest-rated delis in Rochester by diners
Highest-rated delis in Rochester 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 Rochester. 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.
#25. Skip's on the Ridge
- Rating: 3.6/5 (26 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 640 West Ridge Road Rochester, New York
- Categories: Meat Shops, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#24. Titus Tavern
- Rating: 3.7/5 (23 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 690 Titus Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Bars, Delis, Pizza
- Read more on Yelp
#23. Pellegrino's Deli Cafe
- Rating: 3.7/5 (74 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1120 Mt Hope Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis, Cafes
- Read more on Yelp
#22. Magnolia's Deli & Cafe
- Rating: 3.7/5 (309 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 366 Park Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Pizza, Cafes, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#21. Nick's Pizza Subs And Pasta
- Rating: 3.8/5 (64 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 1098 Chili Center Coldwater Road Rochester, New York
- Categories: Pizza, Delis, Italian
- Read more on Yelp
#20. Lipman's Kosher Market
- Rating: 3.8/5 (12 reviews)
- Address: 1482 Monroe Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Grocery, Delis, Butcher
- Read more on Yelp
#19. Europa Deli
- Rating: 3.9/5 (13 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1694 Penfield Road Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#18. Lacagnina's Italian Deli
- Rating: 4.0/5 (15 reviews)
- Address: 1332 Lyell Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#17. Triano's Meat Market and Deli
- Rating: 4.2/5 (41 reviews)
- Address: 620 Stone Road Rochester, New York
- Categories: Meat Shops, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#16. Ciaccia's Delicatessen and Eatery
- Rating: 4.2/5 (15 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 183 Lee Road Rochester, New York
- Categories: Italian, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#15. H & A Deli
- Rating: 4.2/5 (5 reviews)
- Address: 1042 Dewey Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#14. Calabresella's On Park
- Rating: 4.2/5 (77 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 210 Park Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#13. Riccardo's Bakery
- Rating: 4.3/5 (7 reviews)
- Address: 1780 Norton St. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Bakeries, Pizza, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#12. Ciaccia Importers of Fine Foods
- Rating: 4.3/5 (14 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 3759 Dewey Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#11. Desiato's Deli & Subs
- Rating: 4.4/5 (48 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1475 East Henrietta Road Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Soup
- Read more on Yelp
#10. DiBella's Italian Market
- Rating: 4.4/5 (264 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 620 Jefferson Road Rochester, New York
- Categories: Sandwiches, Delis, Salad
- Read more on Yelp
#9. Brownstein's Deli and Bakery
- Rating: 4.4/5 (95 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1862 Monroe Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis, Bagels, Kosher
- Read more on Yelp
#8. Pino's Deli & Subs
- Rating: 4.4/5 (123 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 2590 West Ridge Road Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#7. Calabresella Importers of Italian & Greek Food
- Rating: 4.5/5 (93 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1386 Buffalo Road Rochester, New York
- Categories: Italian, Delis, Salad
- Read more on Yelp
#6. Dybowski Authentic Polish Market
- Rating: 4.6/5 (9 reviews)
- Address: 1325 Hudson Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis, Meat Shops, Polish
- Read more on Yelp
#5. Palermo's Market
- Rating: 4.6/5 (9 reviews)
- Address: 240 East Main St. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Breakfast & Brunch
- Read more on Yelp
#4. Ricci's Italian Imports
- Rating: 4.8/5 (20 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 3180 Latta Road Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#3. Swan Market
- Rating: 4.8/5 (121 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 231 Parsells Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Meat Shops, German, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#2. Lakeside Deli & More
- Rating: 4.8/5 (17 reviews)
- Address: 4888 St. Paul Blvd. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#1. Dream Town Deli
- Rating: 4.8/5 (6 reviews)
- Address: 275 East Ave. Rochester, New York
- Categories: Convenience Stores, Food Delivery Services, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
This story features data reporting by Wade Zhou, writing by Cynthia Rebolledo, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 191 metros.
