A Taste of New York City

(This article was written by Laisa Chavez Macias and was featured in the September 2025 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine.)

Everyone knows a visit to the Big Apple isn’t complete until you’ve had a Rueben sandwich, but what if I told you a visit to Harlingen isn’t either?

That's right! New York Deli, right here in the heart of downtown Harlingen, is known to serve up a Rueben sandwich that some New Yorkers have said is the best they’ve ever had.

Photo courtesy of New York Deli II

A Family Business

Back in the 1970s, Gilbert Rendon’s father Frank hitchhiked his way up to New York from Dallas and never looked back. He started working in a deli as soon as he arrived, becoming very close with a Jewish family who took him under their wing and taught him everything he needed to know about running a deli. Frank traveled around working in different restaurants from New York, to Chicago, Seattle, and even spent some time at the World State Fair perfecting his culinary skills before finally settling down in Brownsville, TX, where he opened the first New York Deli in 1982.

Photo courtesy of John Rendon

But Frank didn’t just start a restaurant when the doors opened to New York Deli, he started a dynasty. Gilbert and his brother followed in their father’s footsteps, with one taking over the Brownsville location when Frank retired, and Gilbert opening a second location in Harlingen. Today the Harlingen location is owned and operated by Gilbert’s son John, who I had a chat with recently.

John and his brother both grew up in the restaurant, learning family recipes and cooking techniques that make New York Deli so special. They use all fresh ingredients, and everything is made fresh daily. Recipes that have been passed down from one generation to the next, including the brisket recipe used to make that amazing Rueben sandwich that has put them on the map. (This past May, the Harlingen location was featured on The Texas Bucket List on television, which was a big honor for John and his team.)

Photo courtesy of New York Deli II

The Rest of the Menu

I know I’ve gone on and on about the Rueben, but as a regular customer I can say without a doubt that New York Deli is more than just a sandwich shop and caterer. The menu truly has something for everyone.

Photo courtesy of New York Deli II

In addition to the great selection of sandwiches, you can also order something hot off the grill, and they never disappoint. Some of the grilled items include the Brodie burger, which is loaded with their homemade chili; the Rockaway grilled chicken, which is topped with mushroom and melted provolone; and the Philly Cheesesteak, which has grilled onions and bell peppers. Pro tip: ask about the Russian sauce; you can thank me later.

And you absolutely don’t want to sleep on the daily special! The daily special consists of a sandwich (chef’s choice and not always from the menu), one side, a soup, and of course, a pickle and carrots. I have yet to have one I don't love, and I always order it without even asking what the sandwich is, so it’s always a pleasant surprise.

Photo courtesy of Lisa Campos

Last but not least, they have great homemade soups and a nice selection of salads that are fresh and filling. They have more, trust me, but I'll let you head over to their social media and drool now (Facebook: New York Deli Harlingen; Instagram: @newyorkdeli_harlingen; and TikTok: @newyorkdeliharlingen).

Signing off until next time, your friendly foodie, Laisa :)

P.S. Fun Fact: Gilbert’s love of the Beatles is displayed all over the restaurant. The music was very nostalgic for him. He loved them so much he named his son John, middle name Lennon, and John’s son is now John Lennon Jr.

New York Deli II – Harlingen 122 North A Street Monday through Wednesday, 11 am to 6 pm Thursday and Friday, 11 am to 8 pm Saturday, 11 am to 5 pm Sunday, closed