ZipPicks Awards
Best Sandwiches in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Cheap Eats in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Master Critic Review
Kips Bay Deli
7.9
Kips Bay Deli is a 24-hour neighborhood bodega-deli where oversized hot and cold sandwiches anchor a menu of eggs, salads, and snacks. It’s the reliable choice for budget-friendly cheesesteaks and build-your-own heroes at any hour, especially for nearby residents and hospital staff needing a late-night sandwich fix.
Must-Try Dishes:
Italian Cheese Steak Sandwich, The Emblem Pastrami Sandwich, California Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Around-the-clock deli turning out piled-high hot and cold sandwiches at bodega prices.
Who should go: Budget-minded locals needing sandwiches at all hours.
When to visit: Late nights or off-peak lunch for fastest service.
What to order: Italian Cheese Steak, The Emblem pastrami, California sandwich.
Insider tip: Customize your sandwich toppings; the grill team is used to detailed requests and portions are big enough to split.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only and very limited, especially after 6pm. Most locals walk or use rideshare.
Dress code: Ultra casual — anything from scrubs to gym clothes is totally normal.
Noise level: Moderate to loud near the grill during busy hours; quiet late night.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak late-night rush (10pm–2am)
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes typical, even during hospital lunch crowds
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — egg sandwiches, veggie heroes, mozzarella, avocado, and salad builds.
Vegan options: Limited — can customize veggie heroes without cheese or mayo.
Gluten-free options: Limited — salads and protein-only builds available, but no dedicated gluten-free bread.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic first date, but great for a casual, no-pressure late-night food run.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are usually only a few stools or standing counters — it’s primarily takeout-focused.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids and teens who love sandwiches and breakfast food, but there’s no seating area designed for families.
Best For
Better for: Late-night sandwiches, massive portions for the price, and fully customizable grill-order heroes.
Skip if: You want sit-down service, atmosphere, or elevated ingredients — this is strictly a classic neighborhood deli experience.