This Florida Pastrami Is So Good, People Drive Hours for It
Craving a true New York deli fix without hopping a flight north? At Pomperdale Famous New York Deli in Fort Lauderdale, the pastrami is so tender and smoky that people plan whole beach days around a sandwich run. Massive stacks, classic sides, and warm service make every visit feel like a tradition.
Come hungry, leave plotting your next excuse to return.
1. The Legendary Pastrami on Rye
Locals whisper about the steam, the spice, the first bite that melts before you can even brag about it. The pastrami at Pomperdale is hand sliced, tender, and stacked so high you brace the rye with both hands. A swipe of mustard, a snap of half sour pickle, and suddenly lunch turns into a life decision.
You taste pepper, smoke, and tradition in every slice. The balance is perfect: juicy meat, sturdy rye, clean heat from the seasoning. It is the kind of sandwich that makes you plan detours, call friends, and promise to share, then conveniently forget.
2. The New Yorker Combo
When you cannot choose between corned beef and pastrami, the New Yorker makes the decision for you. It is a skyscraper sandwich that somehow stays balanced, with layers of peppery pastrami hugging silky corned beef. Take a deep breath, loosen your grip, and let the juices run slightly into the rye.
Every bite delivers that big city deli energy. Pair it with potato salad and a cold Dr. Brown’s and you are set. This is the order regulars swear by, the benchmark you will compare future sandwiches against, and the reason you will text someone a photo mid bite.
3. Reuben That Rivals NYC
The Reuben here earns loud praise, and you will understand why once the cheese stretches. Toasted rye anchors a lava flow of Swiss, sauerkraut, and dressing that hugs tender corned beef. It is messy in the best possible way, the kind of sandwich you commit to with extra napkins nearby.
Griddle heat brings everything together into one glorious bite. The sauerkraut stays bright, not soggy, adding snap against the richness. If you are ranking Reubens outside New York City, prepare to update your list and possibly your travel plans.
4. Nova on an Everything Bagel
Mornings at Pomperdale feel easy when a Nova sandwich hits the counter. Silky salmon, chive cream cheese, tomato, and onion on an everything bagel bring that breezy coastal start to your day. One bite and the salt, crunch, and creaminess align like sunshine on Commercial Boulevard.
The bagels have real chew and a toasted edge that stands up to the toppings. Add home fries if you want a hearty plate, or keep it simple with self serve coffee that locals swear by. It is breakfast that feels like a ritual and tastes like home.
5. Matzo Ball Soup Comfort
There are days when only matzo ball soup will do, and Pomperdale understands that assignment. The broth is golden and soothing, the matzo balls tender yet substantial enough to survive a generous spoonful. Carrots, celery, and dill round out the bowl like a hug from the kitchen.
It is the perfect warm up before a sandwich or a satisfying meal on its own. You sip, breathe, and feel better with each spoonful. If you have been chasing a true deli style soup in South Florida, this one will end the search.
6. House Coleslaw and Half Sours
Great deli sides are not afterthoughts here. The coleslaw is crisp and lightly dressed, adding cool crunch that brightens every sandwich bite. Then there are the half sour pickles, delightfully snappy with just enough garlic to make you smile between mouthfuls of meat.
Order a side and watch the whole plate come into focus. These classics balance richness, refresh your palate, and keep you reaching for one more forkful. Sometimes the little dishes are what you remember first when you get back in the car.
7. Old School Vibe and Service
Walk in and you feel it immediately: old school deli energy with South Florida sunshine. Order at the counter, hear names called, and watch sandwiches land like small celebrations. Staff remember faces, offer suggestions, and keep the line moving with genuine warmth.
Classic rock hums in the background while the slicer sings its own rhythm. It is efficient, friendly, and proudly no nonsense. When good food meets great people, you understand why the parking lot fills and the regulars wave like neighbors.
8. Plan Your Visit
Find Pomperdale at 3055 E Commercial Blvd, minutes from the beach with easy access and steady lunchtime buzz. Hours run 7:30 AM to afternoon most days, so plan an early sandwich run or a relaxed breakfast. Prices sit in the friendly middle, with portions that easily become two meals.
Call +1 954-771-9830, check the menu at their website, and arrive hungry. Parking is straightforward, and takeout works great for beach picnics. Once you taste that pastrami, you will understand why people drive across counties for a sandwich and a smile.
