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Toasties
Master Critic Review
Toasties
8.0
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Business Lunch Power Players
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Toasties E. 51st is a busy Midtown deli known for its sprawling hot and cold sandwich menu, from breakfast egg sandwiches to stuffed chopped cheeses. It’s a reliable, fast-moving counter where office workers and tourists grab hearty, reasonably priced sandwiches near St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sloop Dan B hot sandwich, Chopped cheese on a hero, Bacon, egg & cheese breakfast sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: High-volume Midtown deli with an enormous, customizable sandwich lineup.
Who should go: Office workers and travelers needing a fast, filling sandwich
When to visit: Late breakfast or mid-afternoon to avoid peak lunch rush
What to order: Sloop Dan B, chopped cheese, bacon-egg-cheese on a roll
Insider tip: Decide your build before you reach the counter—lines move quickly and staff expect a ready order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce in Midtown East; rely on nearby paid garages along E. 51st and Lexington Ave.
Dress code: Completely casual—office attire, gym clothes, or tourist wear all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate and bustling during peak hours; still easy to hear quick conversations.
Weekend wait: Minimal to no wait—this is primarily a daytime, weekday-heavy deli.
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes in line during the rush; the counter moves quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple egg sandwiches, grilled cheese variations, and customizable veg-loaded builds.
Vegan options: Limited—can build a vegetable-only sandwich, but proteins, spreads, and breads skew non-vegan.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free bread or prep; not suitable for strict gluten-free diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it's a fast, functional deli with limited seating and a rush-driven vibe. Better for quick bites than romantic settings.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Seating is limited and grab-and-go is common, so plan to eat on the move during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who can handle counter service and quick pacing; no high chairs or kid-specific amenities.
Best For
Better for: Fast, filling, affordable sandwiches with a huge build-your-own range—ideal for office workers and travelers who need efficiency.
Skip if: You want leisurely dining, artisanal ingredients, gluten-free options, or a calm, sit-down environment.