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L & M Delicatessen & Catering
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
L & M Delicatessen & Catering
7.8
A long-running Chelsea deli that still does the basics with discipline—hot egg sandwiches, griddled bacon, and tight coffee service from dawn onward. The breakfast menu leans classic NYC counter fare, and the value stays strong for the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bacon, egg & cheese on a kaiser roll, Challah French toast, House-made soups with buttered roll
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A 1971-era Chelsea staple for no-nonsense breakfast sandwiches.
Who should go: Locals needing fast, filling breakfast
When to visit: Weekday mornings before 9am
What to order: BEC kaiser; challah French toast; matzo ball soup
Insider tip: Ask for the roll well-toasted—texture upgrade.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be limited during peak hours. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual - no need for anything fancy, jeans and a t-shirt are fine.
Noise level: Moderate - can have some background chatter but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: No dinner service, breakfast-only hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, but can get busy during lunchtime.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetarian-friendly options like bagels with cream cheese, egg sandwiches.
Vegan options: Limited - a couple of plant-based options, such as oatmeal and salads.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free bread available upon request, though cross-contamination is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic first date—it's a no-frills, quick-serve spot better suited for casual dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, reservations aren't necessary. It's a counter-service deli, so seating is first-come, first-served.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, it's kid-friendly. Simple menu options and quick service make it a solid choice for families with young kids.
Best For
Better for: A quick, affordable, and no-nonsense breakfast, especially for locals in the Chelsea area.
Skip if: Looking for a sit-down brunch experience with a more refined atmosphere or extensive menu options.
L & M Delicatessen & Catering
8.3
Old‑school neighborhood deli doing reliably good sandwiches and breakfast wraps with generous portions and a loyal local following. Its longtime presence and consistent quality make it a go‑to for quick, no‑frills eats in Chelsea.
Must-Try Dishes:
L&M Special sandwich, Chicken cutlet with cheese lettuce tomato mayo, Breakfast wrap B
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Decades‑old deli offering hearty, affordable sandwiches and breakfast around the clock.
Who should go: Anyone craving classic deli‑style sandwiches.
When to visit: Early morning or late night for convenience.
What to order: L&M Special, chicken cutlet sandwich, breakfast wrap B
Insider tip: Go early or late to avoid lunch rush and get full portion sandwiches.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but can be difficult to find during peak hours. Public transportation is recommended.
Dress code: Casual, no strict dress code. Jeans and comfortable wear are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate - can hold a conversation comfortably, but can get busy during lunch rush.
Weekend wait: No wait typically, as it's more of a quick-service spot.
Weekday lunch: Expect a brief wait during peak lunchtime, around 10-15 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple vegetarian sandwich options available.
Vegan options: Limited - 1-2 vegan-friendly items, such as vegetable wraps.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free bread is available, but it's important to note there may be cross-contact with gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not the best for a first date - it's casual and no-frills, lacking the intimate atmosphere many seek for dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a short wait during peak hours. Reservations are not typically necessary.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - family-friendly with a relaxed vibe, though there are no high chairs or play areas.
Best For
Better for: Quick, hearty sandwiches with classic deli vibes and a loyal following in a no-fuss environment.
Skip if: Looking for a fancy, upscale experience or a place with an extensive drink menu.