East Thirty Six Delicatessen

East Thirty Six Delicatessen at 1792 Flatbush Ave Brooklyn, NY 11210 delivers the kind of classic deli experience New Yorkers crave—hearty sandwiches, homemade sides, and a warm, no-frills charm.

Discovering East Thirty Six Delicatessen in Brooklyn

What draws locals and visitors alike to East Thirty Six Delicatessen isn’t just the food—it’s the feeling. Tucked away on Flatbush Avenue, this cozy spot stands as a tribute to timeless deli culture. Walking through the door, you're greeted by the rich aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling meats on the grill. Behind the counter, there’s usually someone who knows half the neighborhood by name and remembers exactly how you like your pastrami.

The menu reads like a love letter to classic American deli fare. From corned beef stacked high on rye to egg salad that tastes like someone’s grandmother made it fresh that morning, every bite feels familiar. For those hunting for a proper breakfast sandwich that doesn’t cut corners or a lunch that actually fills you up, this spot answers the call.

What truly sets East Thirty Six Deli apart is its role in the community. It’s not uncommon to find regulars chatting with staff about local news, or a couple grabbing sandwiches for Prospect Park picnics. It’s this kind of neighborhood-rooted hospitality that turns a first-time visit into a repeat ritual.

A Menu That Honors the Classics with Brooklyn Flavor

East Thirty Six Delicatessen doesn’t complicate things—it simply does the basics better. The Reuben sandwich is grilled to crispy perfection, with tangy sauerkraut and melted Swiss flowing out the sides. The matzo ball soup, served hot and comforting, carries a depth of flavor that suggests a recipe passed down for generations. Bagels? Boiled, not baked, and generously topped.

What’s impressive is how everything—from sliced meats to pickles—is prepared with care. Even side dishes like potato salad or coleslaw feel intentional, seasoned right, and balanced. The team doesn’t shy away from portions either, serving meals that remind you what it’s like to be truly full, without the frills of trendy plating.

For those in a rush, the grab-and-go options are lifesavers. A wrapped turkey club, an iced coffee, maybe a chocolate chip cookie at checkout—it’s lunch handled. But when time allows, sit at one of the booths near the window. Watch Flatbush hustle by while you dive into a deli-style feast.

The Reviews That Speak for Themselves

In a city filled with culinary options, East Thirty Six Delicatessen has carved out loyal fans through word of mouth. Online reviews frequently call out the friendly service, consistent quality, and value for money. One local put it best: “This is where you go when you want the real thing, no gimmicks.”

Families stop by before school drop-offs, while late lunchers show up after the peak crowd. The mix of customers—young professionals, retirees, delivery workers, students—speaks volumes about its versatility. Whether it’s a Saturday brunch or a weekday bite, the vibe remains welcoming and casual.

Menus are often shared on social platforms with snapshots of sky-high sandwiches or a steaming bowl of soup, often captioned with phrases like “Brooklyn classic” or “hidden gem.” That organic buzz, created by customers rather than campaigns, is the kind most businesses only dream of.

A Location That’s Part of the Daily Brooklyn Beat

Set on 1792 Flatbush Avenue, the deli sits in the heart of a vibrant neighborhood. Just a few blocks from Brooklyn College and near multiple subway lines, it’s easy to get to whether you're a local or just exploring the area. The walk from the train takes you past bookstores, hair salons, and street vendors—real Brooklyn energy that wraps around your visit.

And unlike tourist-heavy diners, this isn’t a place trying to be something it’s not. There’s no neon sign screaming “Brooklyn eats” or menus with QR codes leading to an app. What you get is an old-school counter, a chalkboard listing daily specials, and the comforting sound of knives chopping, toasters popping, and staff calling out orders by name.