The most iconic cheesecake in the world. It is incredibly dense and creamy, made with high-quality cream cheese and no fillers. The signature touch is the thin, soft sponge-cake base rather than a traditional graham cracker crust. It's remarkably smooth and has a slight tang that balances the richness. Reviewers consistently name it as the standard by which all other cheesecakes are judged.
Tips from diners
Get it plain for your first time. The texture is so good it doesn't need toppings. If you're sharing, one slice is more than enough for two people—it's very rich.
The most popular flavored option. A massive slice of the original cheesecake is covered in a bright, sweet-tart strawberry glaze with whole, fresh berries. The acidity of the fruit provides a perfect lift to the dense, rich cream cheese. Reviewers often mention this as the best 'fruit' version in Manhattan.
Tips from diners
The strawberries are glazed, not just fresh, which gives it a more classic diner dessert feel. It's the most photographed slice on the menu.
A favorite comfort item at the Brooklyn original. A single, massive matzo ball sits in a deep, intensely flavored chicken broth. It is seasoned with fresh dill and contains tender pieces of carrot and celery. Reviewers highlight the lightness of the matzo ball as being particularly well-executed.
A textbook execution of the New York classic. The pastrami is cured and smoked to a buttery consistency, then hand-sliced to preserve its juices. It's a favorite for those wanting a hearty meal before their dessert. While less famous than Katz's, Junior's is celebrated for its consistency and short wait times for a high-quality deli sandwich.
Originally opened by Harry Rosen at the corner of Flatbush and DeKalb, Junior's is a New York institution. While it's a full-service diner serving everything from matzo ball soup to deli sandwiches, it is world-famous for its cheesecake. The recipe hasn't changed since the 1950s, using a specific blend of high-quality cream cheese and a sponge-cake base that has earned it its status as the 'Best Cheesecake in New York.'
The original location on Flatbush Avenue is much more atmospheric and spacious than the Times Square outposts. It's worth the trip to Brooklyn to sit in the original 1950s booths.
If you're just there for cheesecake, use the takeaway counter—it's much faster than waiting for a table in the dining room. You can buy whole cakes or individual slices.
This is one of the best late-night spots in Brooklyn. It's high-energy even at 11 PM on a weekday, and the service is remarkably fast even during the post-theater rush.
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