By: Jordan Budney By: Jordan Budney | October 3, 2024 | Food & Drink, Guide, Feature,
If salads are one thing, it's versatile, whether you like your salads with cruciferous crunchy greens, packed with fresh fruit, or mixed in with mayonnaise and chicken. If you're on TikTok, chances are you've seen the recent chicken salad craze. Hyped up for a reason, chicken salad is the perfect snack, and these are the best spots to grab it in NYC.
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205 East Houston St. / 212.254.2246 / Website
“I’ll have what she’s having,” and she’s having chicken salad. Since 1888, Katz’s Deli has been serving New York’s Lower East Side and become one of the most prominent locations every New Yorker tourist has to visit. Known typically for their legendary pastrami and corned beef meats made in-house using recipes from generations past, they have plenty of other meats and sides to choose from, including potato latkes, matzoh ball soup, and their decadent chicken salad. Customers can choose to have it in a sandwich between deli rye, or heaping scoops on a platter on top of a bed of fresh lettuce and tomatoes. Plus, they offer nationwide special occasion packages and signature holiday dinner meal kits to ensure every neighborhood can have what Harry and Sally had in 1989.
548 3rd Ave. / 212.679.0442 / Website
Sarge’s is in charge when it comes to classic delicatessen offerings at one of New York’s favorite quintessential Jewish-style restaurants. Celebrating being in the industry for around 60 years, their reputation is built on homemade food, family-sized portions and a friendly atmosphere, all captured in old-world decor-classic diner booths. Their menu features over 200 different items, including their vast list of omelets, sandwiches, entrees and desserts including homemade cheesecake. Pair their classic chicken salad sandwich with a savory soup for a heartwarming lunch, and do not forget to grab a piece of Steve’s world-famous key lime pie to end the perfect meal.
Multiple locations / Website
This neighborhood eatery is living up to its name by providing all the best eats for breakfast, lunch and dinner. With multiple locations across the city, Daily Provisions serves an all-day menu with plenty of selections for whatever you may be craving. The Herb Chicken Salad Sandwich comes with cucumber, spinach, and arugula on a seeded sourdough bread that highlights the zesty mayo mixed in with the fresh chicken. The best part is customers can order just the chicken salad in either a cup or a pint to either bring home to their family and friends or keep to themselves for a savory protein-packed pick-me-up. In addition, their crullers are a stand-out option for that sweet treat, coming in cinnamon, maple and blueberry buttermilk.
Multiple locations / Website
Founder Abe Lebewohl has been serving some of the best Jewish fare in town at an internationally renowned Gotham landmark. What once began as a quaint luncheonette has now become an iconic New York eatery serving “expertly prepared meat, the greatest chopped liver, delicious chicken soup and other Jewish delicacies that are just like Bubbie’s – but better.” Start your meal with one of their traditional appetizers like stuffed cabbage or ptcha, or pair a sandwich with potato or noodle kugel. Can’t decide on the meal? 2nd Ave Deli provides an open sandwich medley tray that serves 3-4 people, where patrons can sample all their favorite meats, including corned beef, soft salami and none other than the refreshing chicken salad.
Multiple locations / Website
We all know Lenwich makes a mean chicken Caesar wrap, but do not skip over their chicken salad. Celebrating their 35th anniversary, they are rooted in a simple message; make great sandwiches and bring people together. With numerous locations throughout the city, swing by for either breakfast or lunch to try some of their exquisite salads and sandwiches. The “Farmhouse” is made with their chicken salad, dried cranberries, cucumbers, red cabbage, lettuce and tomatoes, or feel free to build your sandwich with your preferred additions. Besides sandwiches, they also prepare breakfast sandwiches, bagels, salads and burgers, so there is something for everyone on the menu.
Multiple locations / Website
Named after its original area telephone exchange, Butterfield Market is a stellar shopping market that is not just like any other grocery store on the block. For almost 100 years, the rich tradition of superb quality remains consistent and their commitment to serving delicious food made with top ingredients makes this family business a stand-out spot. The family business is now a fourth-generation grocery offering everything shoppers can imagine, like freshly prepared weekly specials, bakery items, and most importantly, their chicken salad made with tarragon, Granny Smith apples and celery. Their online website provides an abundance of recipes using ingredients found in the store with modifications for any dietary restrictions. Plus, they have a floral market with beautiful bouquets that will lighten up any living space.
Chicken salad can easily be looked over when it comes to sandwich options, but this underdog is definitely on the rise and gaining popularity across multiple platforms. Slathering it between two slices of bread, mixing it with other nutritious salad ingredients, or eating it straight out of the container, there is no wrong way to enjoy this dish.
Photography by: Brent Hofacker / Getty Images