Deli City Restaurant

Deli City Restaurant

2200 Bladensburg Rd NE, Washington, DC 20018, United States

+1 202-526-1800

Deli
(275)
Share Your Experience

About This Place

Nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C. at 2200 Bladensburg Rd NE, Deli City Restaurant is a beloved local deli that serves up classic, hearty sandwiches with a nostalgic flair reminiscent of the 1970s. This unpretentious spot is a haven for sandwich lovers seeking authentic deli flavors and generous portions.

The menu at Deli City Restaurant reads like a homage to deli culture with standout items that keep patrons coming back. Their Reuben Sandwich is renowned, boasting an overstuffed, generously layered pile of tender corned beef, perfectly toasted rye bread, tangy sauerkraut, and a luscious dressing that strikes the ideal balance between savory and slightly tangy — each bite a decadent, satisfying experience. As one regular raved, the Reuben is a “super showstopper” offering a buttery finish that is both messy and utterly delicious.

Beyond the Reuben, the Hot Pastrami sandwich is another crowd favorite, celebrated for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and robust seasoning that hits all the right notes without overwhelming the palate. If you lean more towards classic deli staples, the hot New York style corned beef is equally tender, almost falling apart on the tongue, giving you that comforting, homemade feel with every bite.

For sides, Deli City offers homemade potato salad and crisp cole slaw that perfectly complement the hearty sandwiches, while their French fries deliver fluffy softness—though some might wish for a bit more seasoning to bring out extra flavor. To wash it all down, their refreshing iced tea provides a cooling, slightly sweet finish to the meal.

The ambiance at Deli City is charmingly old-school, packed with regulars who appreciate the no-frills dining experience. While the space is modest and bustling, it enhances the atmosphere, creating a cozy, community feel. As one customer fondly described, being here feels like stepping back to a simpler era — with waitresses so warm and familiar they’ll call you “baby” or “honey,” making every visit feel like catching up with old friends.

For those craving a sandwich that combines authentic deli craftsmanship with generous flavors and genuine hospitality, Deli City Restaurant stands out as a true gem in Washington’s deli scene. Whether you’re grabbing an iconic Reuben or savoring a perfectly cooked pastrami, be prepared for a deeply satisfying, comforting meal that resonates with both your taste buds and heart.

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Planning
Quick visit
Payments
Cash only
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    06:00 AM - 04:30 PM
  • Tuesday
    06:00 AM - 04:30 PM
  • Wednesday
    06:00 AM - 04:30 PM
  • Thursday
    06:00 AM - 04:30 PM
  • Friday
    06:00 AM - 04:30 PM
  • Saturday
    Closed
  • Sunday
    Closed

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • James Klein
    1 month ago

    Incredibly delicious sandwiches. Super nice owner. Will be back again

  • Krishna B Kidambi
    2 month ago

    The place does not have aesthetics or great service. But their food was great. The pastrami sandwich is amazing (5/5). The French fries smelled amazing but didn’t have much seasoning though..! They were fluffy not crunchy. The place was packed with people in a small space which scared me a little (2/5). But I guess it was everyday regulars. Overall don’t go expecting anything else apart from good food. They have parking but they don’t take cards.

  • Bruce Kieloch
    2 month ago

    This place is a gem. Like stepping back to the 1970's (in a good way). Corned beef and pastrami so tender they fall apart and dissolve on your tongue. Waitresses call you "baby" and "honey." LOVE IT

  • Sleeprell Rice-Brizuela
    2 month ago

    Deli City Restaurant — Reuben is a Super Showstopper. An exquisite, overstuffed Reuben with extremely tender corned beef and perfectly balanced seasoning — not salty. Toasted rye adds crisp contrast, tangy sauce and sauerkraut brighten the richness, and a subtle buttery finish makes each bite decadently messy. Massive and shareable; don't forget the extra napkins, a fork and knife, and be prepared to split it — easily serves two. Hearty, perfectly balanced, and utterly indulgent — an award‑winning Reuben that demands a second visit.

  • Jill Leatherman
    2 month ago

    I have never ever taste a fish sandwich this good in my life. It tastes better than any high end restaurant. The service was excellent, the waitress was so polite and friendly. I’ve been there several times over the years and I always order the same thing the fish sandwich. As I observed the people that patronize the restaurant. Some ordered takeout and some ate inside. Everything thing I had seen on others plates from the breakfast foods and well stacked deli sandwiches looked good. The restaurant is very cozy and family friendly. I highly recommend it, if you’re ever in the area. and ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • Margaret Gordon
    3 month ago

    I have been going here for years and the food is always great, the service is amazing they are very friendly. A little congested parking small but very nice.

  • Austin Graff
    3 month ago

    Best pastrami sandwich in DC....by a landslide! A few other places had a decent one (like now closed On Rye in Chinatown), but they were always overpriced and just not worth the money. For under $9, you can get a large hot pastrami sandwich that will rock your taste buds (and it comes with a really, really good pickle). Don't get me wrong. This place doesn't look cool and it's a hike to get there (it's nowhere close to a metro), but it's worth it. It's a 1960s small hut with a orange mural marking its location. When you walk in, it feels like a small cafeteria filled with locals eating their sandwiches. You'll see construction workers and old men in suits and hats having lunch (they aren't open for dinner...darn!). After reading the very old menu, a friendly woman will take your order. Wait until it's ready and pay up front (cash only- there's an ATM at the gas station next door). You can't go wrong here, but the hot pastrami sandwich on wheat with cheese and mustard is to die for. They sell old school Dr Brown's soda, which is fitting. To "make it" on Yelp, you either have to believe in the power of peer reviews and surprise and delight (Rose's Luxury on Barracks Row does this well) or own who you are and don't give a damn. Deli City is the latter and it works...like five star works.

  • Vicci Zwiezen
    4 month ago

    Amazing little spot that has been there for 49 yrs. The Best Ruben I've ever had! Fish was so tender and tasty with out a lot of batter. Coleslaw was delicious and the cornbread was sweet and moist. Chicken and rice soup had big chunks of chicken and great flavor. Fries were crispy. Lots of food for very reasonable prices. Will be back anytime we're in the area!

Share Your Experience

Your Rating

Discover What Travelers Love About This Place

Real experiences, honest impressions, and insights shared by the Wherevi community to help you explore with confidence.