OUR SANDWICH SAVIOUR - NYC DELI
New York City Deli is only a baby at 5 weeks old, but I can say with all honesty that it tastes like they've been making sandwiches for years. Granted, I only sampled the hot roast beef with swiss at this tiny shop, but if that one sandwich is anything to judge by, NYC Deli may have a very wholesome future in Shanghai indeed (destined for delivery). I was also able to sample the homemade chili, which had an agreeable flavor plus that all-important spicy kick to it. Granted, it isn't Louisiana chili, but if you're craving genuinely good chili then give it a shot. My friend ordered the meatball sandwich, which was huge . Three large meatballs served on toasted French Baguette (or white roll), with red sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. He enjoyed the sandwich and said the meat wasn't over cooked or undercooked, but just about perfect.
Nelson Chu is the owner of NYC Deli. When asked why he named the Deli after New York City he remarked, " Because you can't get better sandwiches than in New York, and we want people to get the best sandwiches around. " In making good on that claim, Chu says they will soon start making their own corned beef & pastrami and importing high quality french sourdough and rye bread for their sandwiches. Though the bread I was served was already quite good. Chu also said he has plans to eventually expand to other areas such as Jing'an or perhaps Pudong.
NYC Deli is primarily a take out joint. There are only about 5 bar style seats, so it would be good for a pick up and go, or a quick bite, but don't look to take a large lunch party there as there simply isn't the room to accommodate. It is about a ten 15 minute walk from the People's Square subway (depending on what exit you take), or about a 40 minute to one hour wait for delivery for those living in or around the Jing'an area. There are quite a few Western style restaurants in Shanghai, but not many straight up sandwich delis. I've eaten sandwiches at City Diner, Sandwich Express, Wagas, Coolzey (one at Jianguo Lu and one at Shaanxi Lu), and then some. The Pastrami Ruben at City Diner isn't bad, and the "Truck Driver" at Garden Fresh can hold its own. But I'd have to take the NYC Deli "Hot Roast Beef and Swiss" over the rest any day.
Good prices for good eats earns this expat's recommendation. If you can find a better hot roast beef sandwich in Shanghai, let me know.
Delivery is free within 3km, with a minumum order of 50rmb.