Maurice's Delicatessen — Restaurant in City of Albany

Having moved from Queens, I lived in East Greenbush (Albany area) for nearly a year before I even knew about Maurice's. During that time (when I didn't know about Maurice's), I constantly pined for the pastramis of Ben's and the Second Avenue Deli. When I first found out about Maurice's, I was a bit excited but reined in my enthusiasm because I didn't believe they could hold a candle to the Jewish / Jewish-style delicatessens of the southern part of the state. As I ripped open my brown bag with Maurice's hot pastrami sandwich, I primed myself for the almost inevitable disappointment I've experienced with Albany's food over and over. Then, the moment of truth arrived.

With one bite of Maurice's hot pastrami, my entire world outlook changed. I believe if I relocated to the New York City area again, I'd be pining for Maurice's and looking to when I could next make the trip to Albany.

Some direct comparisons (of the hot pastrami): Maurice's vs. Ben's (of Westchester / Long Island): Maurice's wins by a good amount. Maurice's vs. Katz's (of Manhattan): Katz's wins, but hey, Katz's is really, really hard to beat. Maurice's vs. Second Avenue Deli: Close to a tie, and personally, I actually prefer Maurice's. I certainly don't miss Second Avenue anymore. Maurice's vs. Saratoga Broadway Deli: Maurice's crushes Saratoga. Saratoga's portions are much, much smaller, and Maurice's taste is better. Saratoga's taste is still good, though.

My two minor gripes, which in my opinion can be fixed with relative ease, are: (1) Improve the cole slaw. It shouldn't be an afterthought. It isn't bad, and I'll continue to get it, but it's not up to par with even Ben's. (2) Sell some knishes!! (And some good ones, at that.)

Also, I might add the both the guys behind the counter and the girls at the register were exceptionally friendly.

Thank you, Maurice's, and may you be here with the same quality pastrami for many years! (Or, at least until I move out...

I've been a customer for several years now and gotten to know the staff and the owner (and his family) - all good people. I especially like this place because it's locally owned, they do their best to get their supplies locally, the atmosphere is casual and friendly, the employees are courteous and welcoming, and as busy as the owners always seem to be, they make try to make time to have a conversation with customers. I also like the fact that the staff doesn't seem to change that often so good staff retention. It's obvious to anyone with any concept of small business, that this is a big deal likely a result of the owner taking very good care of his people. It's the people who make the place, and they have made this place feel like home....

I visited Maurice Delicatessen on 08/14/23. Was my first time in Albany and coming from NYC. I literally just had came off the charter bus and in need of coffee. I walked in and place was so clean and nice . The staff was also very nice to me. I have to say I had a bacon egg and cheese sandwich and it was soooo fresh and tastey. I wish they were in NYC. I never had a bacon egg and cheese sandwich taste so great. I should have brought 2 lol sooo yummy . When I go back to Albany they will be my first stop. We need you guys in the city . I’m planning to move to Albany and if so I will be a frequent customer. Thanks for the food and great service! You rock -

by JoJo the...