With 53 years in the business and counting, P J Bernstein has been serving up Jewish deli and diner classics to loyal customers on the Upper East Side. The food is homemade and the quality of ingredient freshness and expert preparation is of utmost importance.

Founded in 1965 by P J Bernstein, who wanted to offer up meals that were truly homemade to his guests. In 1986 one of his most loyal customers Alex Slobodski bought the restaurant and it has remained a family affair over over 30 years now. 

The loyal clientele has included a variety of celebs who made the trip to the 71st and 3rd ave location for a meal. Celebrities such as Liza Minelli, Simon Cowell, and even Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz have visited the eatery. 

Triple Delight Soup

Pastrami on Rye

Smoked Salmon

Chocolate Layer Cake

During our dinner we experienced some favorites including our favorite, the Triple Delight Soup. It’s a takeoff of on a traditional matzoh ball soup, but with homemade kreplach, choice of chicken or pastrami, a Bernstein original, with noodles and of course matzoh balls with just the right texture.

The smoked nova scotia salmon was beyond fresh, it was served thinly sliced with with a NY Bagel and garnish.

For meat lovers the home- cooked pastrami sandwiches on rye bread are favorites. Huge portions served with coleslaw and pickles these sandwiches can be shared. Corned Beef and Brisket options are also available and my dining companion gave them a rave review. 

For dessert the fresh apple strudel is a house favorite, but me being a chocolate lover, I went with the 7 layer chocolate cake and I’m glad I did, even though I had to take half of it to go! 

P J Bernstein is located at 1215 3rd ave. New York, NY 10021 (212) 879- 0914  pjbernsteindeli.com