ZipPicks Awards
Best Burgers in Washington Heights
Master Critic Review
Chop Cheese Deli
7.7
Chop Cheese Deli is a 24/7 Broadway bodega where chopped cheese heroes, burgers, and fry baskets serve as Washington Heights' late-night safety net. Reviews acknowledge uneven service and a purely functional setting, but also point to satisfying chopped cheese and burger orders when you need food at off-hours. It is less a destination restaurant and more a reliable, always-open burger-adjacent option with strong cultural resonance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chopped Cheese Sandwich, Steak Cheese Sandwich, Breakfast Sandwiches
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 6.4
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A 24/7 deli where chopped cheese, burgers, and griddled sandwiches define the neighborhood's after-hours burger experience.
Who should go: Night owls and locals wanting chopped cheese, fries, and basics.
When to visit: Late nights after bars close or midafternoon for faster service.
What to order: Chopped Cheese Sandwich, Steak Cheese Sandwich, and fries with mayo.
Insider tip: Bring cash; card minimums and surcharges can bump prices.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally easier late night but tight during evenings and weekends
Dress code: Casual — everyday streetwear and hoodies are totally fine
Noise level: Loud during late-night rush, otherwise functional deli-level noise with little seating
Weekend wait: Usually 5–15 minutes, but can spike to 20+ minutes after bar and club closing
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short line during school and work lunch hours
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — occasional egg and cheese or veggie hero variations depending on staff
Vegan options: Minimal — no dedicated vegan builds and cross-contact is likely
Gluten-free options: No — sandwiches and burgers are built on standard hero rolls with shared prep surfaces
Best For
Better for: Late-night chopped cheese and burger cravings when everywhere else is closed, fast turnaround, and neighborhood bodega authenticity
Consider Alternatives If: You want a sit-down meal, consistent service, atmosphere, or broader menu variety — choose a dedicated burger restaurant instead