For a super-sized dining experience you’ll not soon forget, make sure to visit Harold’s New York Deli in Edison, New Jersey. From piled-high sandwiches to immense matzah ball soup to gargantuan slices of cake, Harold’s believes bigger is better. My maiden voyage to Harold’s occurred in late 2003, and then I ventured back two years ago with the family in tow.
En route from Connecticut to Philadelphia, Harold’s is a perfect stop. It’s about two and a half hours into the journey, located close to where the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike (Interstate 95) intersect. The restaurant is a bit intriguing to get to (i.e.: slightly sketchy). It is located in the monolithic nine-story E Hotel. Once upon a time this was a Holiday Inn and exudes a bygone era.
We’re not here for the hotel though; we’re here for Harold’s New York Deli! Entering the doorway of Harold’s is like being transported back in time. The restaurant is large, with various dining rooms. The waitstaff is attentive and of course, the meals are served on a grand scale.
Lunchtime Kids!
Last time, I’m guessing due to Covid rules, pickles were brought to the table, but now, the pickle bar was back. Imagine a salad bar with pickles of all kinds, shapes, and sizes. It even included a whole pickled tomato (which I didn’t try) and sauerkraut (which I did try).
After snacking on a few pickles, it was time for the main attraction. My parents and I split a large pastrami sandwich. Similar to our visit last time when we ordered a corned beef, this pastrami plate was piled high and topped with melted Swiss cheese which I will once again liken to an ice cream sundae of meat and cheese. At the bottom is a slice of bread.
This sandwich of course is for sharing. Take a slice or two of the bread that is served along with it to make your own mini sandwich. The pastrami is so tender and is complemented deliciously by the cheese. It’s mouthwateringly good. My son chose chicken tenders that were larger than most and numbered four instead of two or three. On my last visit, my other son ordered the hot dog which looked more like a mini-baseball bat than a typical frankfurter.
Harold’s New York Deli
The trick is about Harold’s New York Deli (well for one it’s actually in New Jersey) but the actual trick is the food is really good. This is not some gimmicky touristy place; this is a legitimate excellent New York-style Jewish diner that has been super-sized. Given the no-frills location, the backside of a rather sad-looking high-rise hotel, it has to be sought out. During each visit, the dining room fills up quickly, so Harold’s is certainly not a hidden gem.
The next time you’re driving through the Garden State and want to stop for a large bite, make sure to check out Harold’s New York Deli in Edison, New Jersey. It’s a dining experience you won’t soon forget!
