Story of Lower East Side Eats with 4 Historic Delis

New York City , United States of America

Story of Lower East Side Eats with 4 Historic Delis

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About this experience

Experience how Lower East Side residents of the past and present live their lives on this small group walking tour. Travel back in time as you walk past and learn about the synagogues, tenements and meeting spaces you won’t be able to find on Google Maps, including a stop inside the historic Museum at Eldridge Street. Visit four of the city’s most famous delis, including Russ & Daughters, Kossar's and Katz’s Delicatessan, to sample iconic New York City delicacies and hear how delis are essential to life in the city. Step into the shoes of a modern New Yorker as you travel through Orchard Street’s fashionable storefronts and stop inside the Essex Market, a beloved local food hall.

Available options

Story of Lower East Side Eats with 4 Historic Delis

What's included

Hear the backstories of New York’s famous foods and the people who made them

Tour of the historic synagogues and tenements of the Lower East Side

Reserved entry to the Museum at Eldridge Street, a nearly 150-year-old synagogue

Sample three New York City classics — bagels, pickles and bialys — at world-renowned delis Russ & Daughters, Kossar’s and the Pickle Guys (snacks included with your ticket)

Optional lunch at Katz’s, New York City’s oldest deli

2.5 hour tour of the Lower East Side with a licensed professional guide

Visits to Essex Market, a locale beloved by everyday New Yorkers

Small group (8 people or fewer) to ensure a personalized experience

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet your guide outside a local cafe

Stop inside two beloved local delis to sample some classic Lower East Side eats, include with your ticket, while hearing the stories of two local businesses

Stop 3

Take a walk into one of the city’s oldest synagogues, learning about the history of and the people who helped created the space

Stop 4

Walk to an iconic New York deli to try a world famous New York City bagel

Stop 5

Stroll around the historic synagogues and tenements that Jewish immigrants thrived in when first moving to the neighborhood

Stop 6

Visit an expansive food hall beloved by New Yorkers to sample New York City living

Stop 7

End at Katz's Delicatessen with the option to go in and have lunch

What's not included

Gratuities

Price of optional lunch at Katz's not included

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Meet your guide outside of Café Grumpy on Essex Street.

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information