About New York Deli
New York Deli is a legendary New York–style sandwich shop and bar in Carytown, Richmond. Opened in 1929 (in its current location since 1934) it is officially the city’s oldest restaurant (www.ny-d.com ). It’s a casual dine-in deli with a long 50-foot bar and vintage vibe (www.eventsfy.com ). The menu centers on classic deli fare (pastrami, corned beef Reubens, burgers and sandwiches) alongside broader pub-style food and a rotating beer list (www.ny-d.com ). The Deli proudly calls itself the birthplace of Richmond’s iconic “Sailor Sandwich” (www.ny-d.com ) – a hearty sandwich of pastrami, knackwurst, Swiss cheese and mustard that was popularized during WWII when local naval trainees ate lunch here (rictoday.6amcity.com ). Over the decades New York Deli has been a true local gathering place, known for affordable food, a friendly atmosphere, and a classic neon exterior sign (recently replaced in 2024 with a vintage-style replica of the 1930s original (www.axios.com )).
In August 2022 the Deli expanded with Carytown’s first rooftop bar, the Rockaway Beach Tiki Lounge (www.ny-d.com ). Perched atop the old brick building, this outdoor lounge has its own bar, seating and a tropical décor. It’s open to the public (weather permitting) and can also be rented for private parties (www.ny-d.com ) (www.ny-d.com ). Patrons love that after enjoying a sandwich downstairs they can head upstairs for tiki-style cocktails, lounge seating and city views. All told, New York Deli combines historic charm (a landmark deli in Richmond) with lively bar energy and a one-of-a-kind rooftop venue.
Events and Programming
New York Deli is more than a restaurant – it hosts a packed schedule of free events and music on a weekly basis. Regular weekly events include food-and-drink “industry nights,” trivia, karaoke and DJ parties. For example:
In addition to the weekly lineup, the rooftop and basement spaces see everything from reggae bands and local rock groups to themed parties. Notably, the rooftop bar has hosted free outdoor movies (projected on the neighboring Byrd Theatre wall) as part of community events (www.axios.com ). The style of music varies by night: you’ll find classic rock, indie, punk, Latin, hip-hop and EDM DJs at different times. Most nights are open to the public with no advance tickets – typically there is no cover before 9 or 10 PM. On busy weekends you may pay a modest cover (around $5–$10) for the late-night DJ set or special performances. In short, events range from college crowds during weekday trivia to salsa lessons, drag shows or dance parties on weekends. Tickets (if required) are usually sold through local outlets or the venue itself; however, New York Deli prides itself on being a casual walk-in bar and deli, so most shows simply have general admission at the door.
Tickets and Booking
Unlike a formal concert hall, New York Deli generally does not pre-sell tickets for its nightly music and bar events. Most entertainment (karaoke, trivia, DJs) is free and open to anyone who shows up during business hours. You can usually just walk in – though on very busy nights (particularly late Friday/Saturday), a short line or cover charge after 9 PM is possible. The rooftop and back bar can fill up, so for popular events arriving early or joining a waitlist (if offered) is wise.
For upscale or private events on the rooftop, such as parties, receptions or wedding showers, the Deli handles those directly. To book a private party or large-group event, you would contact the venue’s event coordinator (via the official site or phone) – the rooftop can accommodate anything from small gatherings to fairly large events with flexible pricing packages. Note that for public events, New York Deli’s own “box office” is the bar itself; tickets (if any) are typically purchased at the door or online through local promoters. In practice, just plan on no cover or a minimal fee for most club nights. If an event does have a cover, expect it to be in the single-digit range (around $5–$15).
Seating and Layout
The venue’s layout is casual and open. The main floor features a large dining room lined with tables in rows, plus a very long bar counter (about 50′ long (www.eventsfy.com )) with plenty of stools and high-top tables nearby. Seating is first-come/first-served; there are no assigned seats. Behind the main dining area you’ll find a covered patio with outdoor tables and stools (heated lamps are often used in cooler months). A staircase at the back leads up to the rooftop on good-weather days.
The rooftop (Rockaway Beach Bar) has a bar and several seating areas (tables and lounge chairs) arranged around a small performance stage. There is also a private VIP lounge corner that fits about 10–15 guests (www.ny-d.com ) (often reserved for special parties). Both indoors and on the roof are general-admission. For shows or dance parties, people typically congregate near the DJ/stage area. Those who want a quieter chat might linger at the tables by the bar. Acoustics are loud and lively on music nights, so if your priority is conversation, try to sit mid-floor away from the speakers. On really busy nights the side near the restrooms can get crowded and noisy (though very handy!). Overall the atmosphere is energetic anywhere you sit: the whole space feels like a neighborhood bar with a buzzing crowd and no “bad seat in the house.”
Getting There and Parking
New York Deli is located at 2920 West Cary Street in the heart of Carytown (one mile west of downtown Richmond). It sits on Cary Street westbound, just east of the intersection with Thompson Street, near the corner of I-195 and I-64. By car, you can reach it from downtown via I-195 or from the West End via I-64 to the Cary Street exit. The most convenient parking is usually on-street along Cary or side streets around Carytown – however, you must pay attention to metered parking rules. Most meters cost around $1–$2 per hour (tech pay stations and apps are common), and many meters switch to “evening free” after 6 PM or charge lower rates late at night. For longer stays or busy nights, there are several CityParking lots nearby (for example, at 6th & Cary or 7th & Cary) where rates might be similar or slightly higher depending on the event.
If you prefer transit, Richmond’s GRTC buses serve Cary Street (check routes 3A/3B or local Pulse connectors to broad street, with a stop a few blocks away), though schedules can vary. The Broad Street Pulse (BRT) line stops near Carytown at City Hall (about a 15-minute walk east). Many visitors combine transit and a short walk, or use rideshare/taxi drop-offs on West Cary Street near Cherokee Road. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft work well in Carytown and there are easily accessible curbside drop-off points by the restaurant. (The Deli address and name are well recognized by GPS apps.)
Inside the Venue
Expect a vibrant bar/restaurant atmosphere inside. The front door opens into a bustling see-and-be-seen bar area. The staff here is known to be friendly and fast-paced. When you first arrive, you may be asked to show ID if it’s after 9 PM (when the venue is age-restricted), so have it ready. Any cover charge (if there is one) is typically handled at the entrance or at the bar. Once inside, you can order food from any open table or stool, or the menu will be brought to you. The servers are helpful about daily specials and live-event schedules.
The menu covers classic deli sandwiches (notably the Reuben and the Sailor), burgers, salads and hearty sides (fries, pizzas or quesadillas on some nights). Brunch menus include pancakes, egg plates, and breakfast sandwiches on weekends . The bar has an extensive drink list: expect a good selection of domestic and craft beers on draft and bottles, plus cocktails and mixed drinks. The Deli often touts local brews from Richmond craft breweries and a lineup of well-known spirits. In the tiki rooftop, specialty rum cocktails and frozen drinks are highlighted (note: an authentic tiki cocktail menu launched in Summer 2023 (www.ny-d.com )). Food and drink prices are moderate – sandwiches usually run in the $10–$15 range, with beers around $5–$7 and cocktails around $8–$12.
Special features inside: There’s no formal coat check, but in cold weather staff often offer to hang coats along a wall or rack near the back. Free Wi-Fi is sometimes available (check with staff if needed). The venue has restrooms on the main floor (no need to go outside or far); these are basic but cleaned regularly. If you plan to stay late, note that the bar stays open well past kitchen hours, and servers continue taking drink orders until closing. New merchandise like T-shirts or pint glasses (branded with the deli logo) can often be found for sale at the bar during events.
Nearby Amenities
Carytown is a lively district full of shops, restaurants and bars within a few blocks. For pre-show dining there are dozens of options: casual spots like pizza joints, burgers and BBQ are abundant. For example, the Answer Brewpub (great for craft beer and pub fare) and Shaq’s Omelette and Waffle Shop are close by. If you want a sit-down meal, try Basil (Italian) or Fat Dragon (Chinese/Thai) which are a block away. Coffee shops and dessert places are also steps off Cary Street: a French bakery, a local cupcake shop, and chocolate/candy makers are in the area – ideal for pre- or post-show treats.
Nearby bars and nightlife include Lulu’s (karaoke bar), Midtown Pizza & Pub, and a revived portion of Boulevard that leads to more breweries (like Hardywood down the street). The historic Byrd Theatre is just up the street, so you could pair a movie there with a meal at the Deli. For hotels, downtown Richmond (1–2 miles east) offers most of the options: The Jefferson, Marriott, Hampton Inn and others are within a short drive or taxi ride. Visitor centers or museum districts are also accessible within a few minutes’ drive.
After events, rideshares or cabs are plentiful. If you’d prefer transit, note that late-night buses are limited, and the nearest bus routes may end service around midnight. Taxis or scheduled rides are the safest after-hours options. If you’re driving, remember that Carytown restaurants are often busy on weekend nights, so give yourself extra time to find parking and walk. Overall, the whole Carytown neighborhood (about 10 city blocks in each direction) is safe and walkable, with streetlamps and pedestrians around late into the evening.
What Makes This Venue Special
New York Deli stands out for its mix of history and personality. It’s a rare surviving piece of old Richmond dining: a generation after generation favorite. Locals have celebrated it as the birthplace of an iconic regional sandwich and point to its status as a living link to pre-war Richmond (www.ny-d.com ) (rictoday.6amcity.com ). The restaurant’s walls and signage have a retro charm that makes any meal feel nostalgic – it’s like stepping into a 1930s neighborhood pub. In late 2024 the Deli even revealed a brand-new vintage-inspired sign based on the original 1930s design (www.axios.com ), emphasizing its commitment to tradition.
Artistically, New York Deli has become a cultural beacon. It’s known for its themed parties and close ties with Richmond’s creative community. The owner’s collaborations with local nonprofits (Pride events, charitable fundraisers and the Byrd Theatre) keep it community-minded. The tin-roofed rooftop bar is itself a crowd-pleaser: a historic building topped with palm trees and tiki décor is unlike anything else in town. Musicians and DJs enjoy playing here because they get a friendly, energetic crowd and good sound equipment. For audiences, the venue’s affordability and unpretentious vibe make it easy to mingle with neighbors or dance with friends. In short, New York Deli is special for being a time-honored local legend that keeps reinventing itself (like adding the Carytown tiki lounge) while remaining deeply rooted in Richmond’s tradition.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main floor has a street-level entrance, but keep in mind that the rooftop can only be reached by stairs. If you need to avoid steps, inform the host and they will seat you downstairs. The restrooms have limited space; ask staff if you need accessibility accommodations.
After 9 PM on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights the venue is strictly 21+ (IDs will be checked) (hamooda-shami.squarespace.com ). Before 9 PM it’s all-ages for dining/brunch. There is no formal dress code – come comfortably casual. On music nights, people often dress to impress or in fun costumes (especially on theme nights), but on brunch days flip-flops and jeans are fine. No beachwear is needed despite the “tiki” theme.
Bags larger than a purse likely will be checked at the door (no one ever told us otherwise, as a standard security measure at bars). Photography: consumer cameras/phones are generally fine for personal use, but use good judgment (flash photos in dark shows can be frowned on). Smoking of cigarettes is only allowed outdoors (patio or street). Note that the rooftop is unsmoked in many winters due to permit rules; ask staff if smoking is allowed when you visit. If you have a service animal, it is allowed in the dining area (as in most public eateries).
Weather: The rooftop is open-air and operates seasonally. In winter it may close or have limited seating, while spring through fall it’s usually open evenings (weather permitting) (www.ny-d.com ). Check social media or call ahead if rain or storms are expected, as the rooftop bar could shut early on bad nights.
Arrival advice: Carytown can be very busy on weekend afternoons and nights. Arrive 15–30 minutes before showtime to get a table or spot in line. (Walk-in is usually OK, but major events can sell out the rooftop space.) Tipping: 20% is customary for good service. Happy hour (4–7 PM Mon–Fri) often draws a crowd – if you’re after cheap beer or wings, come early. And an insider tip: Monday “Industry Night” is beloved by local chefs and bartenders (think free chicken wings and half-priced beers), so you might score discounted food if you ask about it; it’s how the Deli rewards restaurant workers and often open to the public for fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is New York Deli located and how do I get there?
New York Deli is at 2920 West Cary Street in Richmond’s Carytown neighborhood. It’s on the north side of Cary Street (westbound) just east of Thompson Street, near I-195. If driving, use the Cary Street exit from I-195 or I-64. The nearest bus stops are a few blocks away (several GRTC routes run on Cary Street) and the Pulse BRT stops at City Hall about 0.7 miles east. Rideshare drop-offs on West Cary St (near Cherokee Rd) are also common. (The venue address works in any map app.)
Is parking available and how much does it cost?
Street parking is available around Carytown, usually at metered spots. Meters typically cost about $1–$2 per hour, and many stop charging in the evening (often by 6 PM or 7 PM) or on Sundays. Keep an eye on signs because some blocks have two-hour limits by day. There are also several paid parking lots nearby (operated by CityParking, etc.). Evening rates are comparable. For late nights, you may find free street parking once meters expire.
What public transportation serves New York Deli?
Richmond’s GRTC buses run along Cary Street and surrounding roads. Routes like the 3A/3B and 1 stop a few blocks from the deli (check the GRTC map for the latest service). The Broad Street Pulse (rapid bus) stops at City Hall (9th & Broad), about a 15-minute walk east of the deli if you quit at that stop. On weekends or late at night, bus service can be sparse, so many visitors opt for rideshare or a taxi after dining. Drop-off by Uber/Lyft on West Cary Street (near Thompson or Cherokee) is easy, as room is available near the street curb.
Do I need tickets or reservations to attend an event at New York Deli?
For most live nights (trivia, karaoke, DJs) at the Deli, no tickets or reservations are needed – it’s a walk-in bar atmosphere. You just show up before the event start (research timings on their calendar). Seating is first-come-first-served. On very busy nights there may be a door cover ($5–$10 usually) or a brief waiting line. Reservations are generally only for private parties or large groups (which you’d arrange through their event contact). If you see a concert listing elsewhere, check if it’s a sponsored event; otherwise assume general admission at the door.
What are the typical ticket prices or cover charges?
Typically most nights at New York Deli are free to attend. If there is a cover charge (for example, for a special concert or the late-night DJ dance on weekends), it is usually modest – on the order of $5 to $15. Shows at the rooftop space often have low-cost entry. There are no expensive ticket tiers. You can expect liberal $1–$2 draft beer specials or limited drink deals, which tend to drive up bar tabs more than any entry fee. (If in doubt, check social media or the event posting; they will say “Cover charge” if there is one.)
How do I book a private event or party at the Deli?
New York Deli offers its rooftop and dining spaces for private parties, weddings, receptions, etc. To reserve one of their event areas, you would reach out to their event coordinator (contact info is available on their official site). Private bookings include table space and bar service tailored to your group size. Note that since they prioritize regular service and events, parties are best arranged in advance – talk with the events team via phone or email. Groups of 50+ typically organize via the Rooftop Bar rental. (There’s no online reservation form for regular dining; that’s always walk-in or bar service.)
Is there assigned seating or VIP sections?
No – seating is generally open. When you arrive, you can sit at any open table or at the bar. The exception is on the rooftop: they do have a small “VIP lounge” area up top that can be privately reserved for 10–15 people (www.ny-d.com ). Other than that, it’s all general admission. There are no pre-assigned seats or VIP tickets for the main events – just first-come seating. If you have a large group, you can ask the host to place your party together at available tables (they often do this on busy nights, if space allows).
What should I wear to New York Deli events?
New York Deli’s vibe is casual. There’s no formal dress code. On music nights people usually dress in neat casual or club attire (think jeans, nice shirts, dresses or jumpsuits). For brunch or weekday lunches, shorts and T-shirts are fine. If you plan to dine, smart casual is a safe bet. Only avoid beachwear or ultra-casual attire (swimsuits, etc.) – not because it’s strictly barred, but because it’s not typical for a bar/restaurant. In summary: come comfortable, but feel free to put on a bit of style if you’re heading to a late-night event.
What are the age restrictions (can kids attend)?
New York Deli is all-ages during daytime hours (e.g. brunch on weekends or lunch on weekdays). However, after 9 PM (Thursday–Saturday) the venue becomes 21+ only – this is noted on their schedule and enforced at the door. So if you plan to come at night (especially for DJs or dancing) make sure you’re 21 with ID. Until 9 PM minors are welcome; after that time only adults are admitted. There is no formal minimum age posted, but children shouldn’t be in the building after the cutoff. (On weekdays and early evenings there’s no age restriction beyond normal state law for minors.)
Does New York Deli have any house rules (bag policy, smoking, etc.)?
Standard bar policies apply. Outside food or drink is not allowed (drinks must be bought at the bar). Large bags or backpacks may be asked to be checked at the door for security. Smoking is only permitted outdoors on the patio (and usually not up on the roof unless it’s explicitly allowed at the time). Bringing professional camera/video equipment for personal recording is generally discouraged – personal smartphones are fine, but flash photography during shows can be seen as disruptive. One kid-friendly note: they occasionally have an ashtray on the patio, so keep toddlers away from that. Otherwise, the rules are relaxed; just follow staff instructions if they point out anything specific on a given night.
What food and drinks does New York Deli serve? Are there vegetarian options?
New York Deli’s menu is built around deli classics and pub food. You’ll find hot sandwiches (like Reubens, Philly cheesesteaks, the famous Sailor Sandwich with pastrami/swiss/mustard), as well as burgers, salads, wings and quesadillas. Brunch (on weekends) adds pancakes, omelets, and breakfast sandwiches. Vegetarian choices include grilled veggie sandwiches, salads and fries; the extensive beer list is great for pairing. The bar serves local and national beers on tap (often including Richmond craft brews), plus cocktails and mixed drinks. They also have a full selection of spirits for classic cocktails. (In summer 2023 and beyond they roll out more exotic tiki-style rum drinks on the rooftop.) Most sandwiches are $10–$15 and specialty cocktails around $8–$12, with happy hour pricing lower.
Does New York Deli have a happy hour or drink specials?
Yes, they do. On weekdays (Monday through Friday) there is a daily happy hour typically from about 3 PM until 7 PM. During this time, beer and well drinks might be a dollar or two off, and bar food items like wings or fries could be discounted. It’s a popular time because you get the normal deli menu and a more laid-back crowd. There are also occasional late-night specials on certain cocktails or shots on Thursday–Saturday nights. If you visit during happy hour, expect a livelier but not yet party crowd finishing their workday.
Does New York Deli have Wi-Fi or connectivity for guests?
Yes, the deli offers complimentary Wi-Fi to customers. (Look for the network name or ask the staff; it’s usually an open network for guests.) Keep in mind that it’s shared in a busy bar environment, so it’s best for checking email or maps, not streaming video. The cell phone signal inside is generally good for all major carriers, though very far from windows it might dip a bit. If connectivity is important, choose a table closer to the front doors or the outdoor patio, where phones tend to get better reception.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
The ground floor and main dining area of New York Deli are accessible (no steps from the street to enter). However, there is no elevator to the rooftop, so that area cannot be reached by wheelchair. The restrooms on the first floor have some space (they are single-stall, so wheelchair users should be able to use them, but check with staff for dimensions). If you have any concerns, the staff is usually helpful – mentioning your needs when you arrive will ensure they seat you in an appropriate spot on the main floor.
What are New York Deli’s hours of operation?
New York Deli is open daily. Regular hours (per the official site) are: Monday–Wednesday 11 AM–12 AM, Thursday–Friday 11 AM–2 AM, Saturday 9 AM–2 AM (with brunch 9 AM–3 PM) and Sunday 9 AM–12 AM (brunch 9 AM–3 PM) (www.ny-d.com ). In other words, weekend mornings open by 9 AM for brunch, and nights often go late (closing around midnight or 2 AM). Note that actual open/close times can shift slightly (holidays, special events), so it’s a good idea to check their announcements if coming very early or extremely late.
Are there age restrictions for late-night DJs or dancing?
Yes. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights (roughly after 9 PM), the venue enforces 21+ only. This is stated on their events schedule for karaoke, DJs, etc. If you or someone in your party is under 21, you must leave by 9 PM. Before 9 PM, the bar/restaurant operates as an all-ages dining establishment, so minors (with adults) can enjoy brunch or lunch. Always be prepared to show ID for all adults after 9 PM.
What is the capacity of New York Deli?
Exact capacity numbers aren’t published, but the venue is fairly large. The main floor dining room easily seats dozens (plus up to ~10 along the bar). The outdoor patio might fit another 20 or so. The rooftop can hold a similar number of people (around 50–70) with standing room, plus the VIP lounge for about 10–15 guests (www.ny-d.com ). In practice, on a busy night including upstairs, the total dealing crowd might be on the order of 100–150 people. This is rough, but it means the venue is much bigger than a small dive bar but smaller than an arena – so it feels energetic but not overwhelmingly huge.
Is New York Deli mainly indoor or outdoor?
The restaurant’s body is indoor (the dining room and bar are all inside), with one open-air patio at the rear (covered by a canopy). The rooftop bar (called Rockaway Beach) is fully outdoors. So it’s a mix: dining happens inside year-round, while some drinking and dancing can be outside on the patio or roof when the weather is good. In rainy or cold weather, rooftop events will move inside or be canceled. Indoor seating is always available, so you won’t be stuck outside unless you choose the rooftop.
What is the famous Sailor Sandwich?
The Sailor Sandwich is a specialty invented in Richmond during WWII at New York Deli’s original location. It’s made with layers of pastrami, knackwurst (seasoned sausage), Swiss cheese and spicy mustard on rye bread. It was named after the U.S. Navy sailors who frequently ate it during training in the 1940s. Today the Deli still serves the original Sailor Sandwich, which fans claim is even better than at any other restaurant in town (rictoday.6amcity.com ). If you visit New York Deli, this hearty sandwich on rye is a must-try signature item.
