There’s nothing like the smokey goodness of the Pastrami sandwich. Long considered an icon of the classic Jewish New York deli, this delicious gift has made it out of the boroughs to delis around the world. Lucky you! National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day is January 14, and our mouths are watering just thinking about how we’re going to celebrate.
National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day timeline
Lithuanian Immigrant Sussman Volk began selling pastrami from his butcher shop on the Lower East Side.
Volk starts serving pastrami on rye bread. New York classic Katz Delicatessen is also established.
New York experiences a peak of about 1,500 Jewish delicatessens as a results of its growing population.
The pastrami on rye at Katz Delicatessen comes into the national spotlight with the hit comedy When Harry Meets Sally.
National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day Activities
Throw a Pastrama party
Of course, you could have your friends over to devour some delicious pastrami sandwiches, but would that be different from any other day? Host a pastrama party — that’s right, a party where you eat pastramis in your pajamas. Take it the experience to the next level by screening the ultimate film that honors our beloved sandwich: When Harry Met Sally. You’ve heard of “the diner scene.” That scene takes place in New York’s famous Katz’s Delicatessen. I’ll have what she’s having — a pastrami on rye!
Go out for lunch
There’s truly no better way to celebrate National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day than experiencing the food itself. Search for delis in your area that serve this classic dish!
Give the gift of a sandwich
Portable and packed with protein, a hot pastrami sandwich makes a great meal, especially on a cold day. Order a second sandwich and give it to someone in need on your way home.
Why We Love National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day
No other sandwich compares
Rye bread, mustard, and beef. These core ingredients form a unique smokey flavor incomparable to other any sandwich. It’s no wonder the recipe has remained unchanged since hot pastrami sandwiches became popular — all the way back in the late 1800’s!
It’s a cultural icon
The hot pastrami sandwich is the Jewish New York Deli scene, embodied. Some people even consider it to be New York’s signature sandwich! With every bite, you’re getting a taste of American Jewish culture.
It warms the soul
A good hot pastrami sandwich involves curing, rubbing, smoking, boiling, AND steaming the meat to give it that signature smokey twang. When you eat a hot pastrami sandwich, you’re not just enjoying the warmth of the flavor, you’re enjoying the long labor of love that put it on your plate.
National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 14 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | January 14 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | January 14 | Thursday |
| 2028 | January 14 | Friday |
| 2029 | January 14 | Sunday |
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