Hobby's Delicatessen & Restaurant

I'm not usually in this area, but I stumbled upon this deli by accident. Turns out it was the best mistake ever! Seriously, their pastrami sandwich is incredible – hands down the best. The people there are really great, super friendly, and they make you feel right at home.

I frequently dream of their Pastrami sandwich, (don't judge me)! Best Pastrami hands down!!!! My family and I visited Hobby's, an almost 2 hour drive, and I would gladly make that trip every Saturday if my schedule permitted. The atmosphere was pleasant, and the staff were both friendly and excellent. Real family atmosphere with quick service. The owner personally greeted us and even offered my little one 2 delightful treats, the desserts were sooooo good. It is truly wonderful to see such a special establishments still thriving.

I would have gave them five stars but I gave him four stars cuz it was my first time there everything was really good I will definitely be back and if this food is the same they will definitely get five

The sandwich was ok. Kinda hoped for something more then OK for 22 frickin bucks and NO fries or side of any sort. It didnt even have meat on it, which is often the most expensive ingredient. I pulled some of the tomato off because it was overpowering the sandwich might go back another day, but it wont be on my normal rotation. The half sour pickle was good.

It’s 12:50 am over 24 hours since having the best sandwich I’ve ever had in my life in Newark NJ At Hobby’s still thinking about it. My wife and I drove 4 and a half hours to NJ to attend AEW Full Gear at the Rock. It was our first time in Newark and thanks to the awesome service at Hobby’s it certainly won’t be the last time. I had the PRIME roast beef sandwich with Russian dressing and raw onions, we had a side of onion rings and my wife couple pick between the Thanksgiving knish or the meatball one and boy, I’m glad we just said “why not both?” Literal tears were shed as we enjoyed our meal. A big thanks to hobby’s for opening up a little early to welcome us in and making our Newark experience memorable. We can’t wait to come back!

Stopped by here on my way to the airport and wow what an amazing experience and meal!! If you're ready for some old fashioned service with a modern menu, you are in for a treat! I ordered the chicken soup and it came with a huge matzah ball that was light and fluffy but very filling! The broth was soothing, flavorful, and obviously freshly made! Then, I had the most innovative kanish of my life stuffed with a tremendous meatball, oozing with melted cheese, and a savory sauce that I couldn’t stop dipping! I didn't want the meal to end and can't wait to come back! Thank you to Suzanne, Becky, the chef and team for this amazing experience! KUDOS to all!

Props to Hobby's for making what is by far the best pastrami I have had and for taking allergies seriously as well. The cook came out and reassured me of their cooking and contamination free process. The pastrami wrap was delicious and the atmosphere was great. The staff was all friendly and helpful as well. And the homemade vanilla coke was amazing!

Definitely a must try! The pickles they include are really good too I think it’s two different kinds they give you. I will always visit every time I’m in the area now. I’m glad I took the suggestion I saw it suggested everywhere as a great place in the area. Best corn beef and pastrami I’ve ever tasted!

Pastrami excellent. Rueben sandwich very good and large. A little put off by the water logged pickles in the table bowl but the ones served with the cole slaw was fine. Ambience fine, ample street parking and service terrific as the owner came over to introduce himself. Very nice guy. If ever in Newark will definitely go back!

Small yet great to eat at prior to devils game to get I to true devil spirit. This deli has a home feel with friendly staff and good food. Potato pancakes large and puffy with pancake coating around a generous portion of potato. Served with applesauce. Sandwiches have a thick amount of meat and can be shared. We didn't have room for dessert but they looked great, especially the large cookies. Crowded so arrive early and be expected to be treated as part of the family. Loved the pickle bowl on tables . A bit cramped but filled with devil memorabilia .

Delicious but I expected more meat from a twenty dollar sandwich. Fresh cole slaw and pickle . I like the five dollar big cookie.

Not all heroes wear capes. My family walked in hungry and tired, and they couldn't have been kinder and quicker when serving us. I got a regular pastrami sandwich with the meatball Parmesan knish, and my husband got an overstuffed pastrami with liver. The meatball knish was unique and comforting. The sandwiches were huge and delicious with minimal fat. We're taking home 2lbs of meat to have for dinner later in addition to what we got to eat there. Thank you to Hobby's for everything!

Don't even remember how I stumbled across this place, but glad I did. It's tucked away in downtown Newark. Super friendly staff & fast service. I felt like I time traveled back to the 80's when I walked into this place. Old school NYC style deli, good energy, Family vibes. Medium sized venue, with random street parking. It's hard to describe the parking situation, lol. I had the Hot Pastrami to go.....AMAZING!!! They also do fresh in-house baked pastries, had the Chocolate Chunk Cookie (not pictured), also amazing! Add this to your list of places to check out. Grades: Pastrami: A+ Chocolate Chunk: A

TLDR: GREAT food in an establishment that has a proud history in Newark, NJ. Parking may be hard to find but the food is extremely worth it. Staff are friendly and come around to check on everyone. MUST VISIT Used to get Hobbys at least twice a month when I used to work in Newark a few years ago (yes... it was that good). Their equality hasn't changed. Generous with their portions, quality similar to Katz (without the wait) and service is always top notch. Onion rings: lightly breaded and fried to a crisp, MUST GET Potato knish: a hearty potato pancake that pairs very well with sour cream and apple sauce. MUST get Pastrami on Rye: is there anything to say here?? Meat is moist, bread is fresh and light and the sandwich is extremely hearty Brisket on Rye: brisket is extremely flavorful and moist. Paired with caramelized onions and some onions rings on the side.... my go to sandwich Extremely busy during peak lunch hours but that's what makes this great place. You see individuals from all walks of life sitting down in one restaurant, enjoying g the great food that this establishment provides.

I am so madd that being born and raised in the city, this was my first time eating here. The food was amazingly delicious. And personal touch of how friendly staff was evident. Along with a family atmosphere. I most certainly will be back.

The pastrami is incredible and the flavor is out of this world. Corned beef was delicious as well, but the surprising star is the knish. It's a flavor bomb with the right amount of flake. The food is delicious and I can't imagine how much better it could be in-person. A must visit in Newark for some good eats.

Hobby's Delicatessen in Newark is a Jersey classic. Their pastrami and corned beef on rye is phenomenal, and the matzo ball soup is pure comfort. Friendly staff, generous portions, and they even have a gluten-free menu available. Parking is a bit tough. Must go place if you have friends visiting from out of town.

Love the atmosphere! Old school feel. Very fair prices for the type of food. Great pea soup. Parking wasn't terrible but I can see it maybe being problems certain days and times. Definitely will be back.

Got a chopped liver sandwich and an egg cream from here and they were amazing. First the sandwich. The liver I know isn't for everyone. I got it with provolone and Cole slaw with Russian dressing. Couldn't have been better. Liver was creamy and just right. My only complaint was too much on the sandwich. I'm glad I ate alone because it would have looked like a comedy show trying to manage eating this. I just took some off and polished off the rye bread contained masterpiece. Good stuff. The egg cream was on point. At least I have another go to after Holstens in Bloomfield. This one was just as good. Also had a pickle which was a delicious finale to the meal. I will definitely be back here. Pricey but worth a few extra bucks.

My friend and I were staying nearby and decided to grab lunch here as our final meal on the trip. I'm so glad we did!! We came by Wednesday around 12:30 and it wasn't too busy. We were originally planning to get takeout, but one of the owners was standing near the front and convinced us to dine in. I'm so glad we did! Ambiance is casual with some hockey decor up on the walls. I got the pastrami sandwich ($16.95), which was absolutely fantastic. They're generous with their portions, the meat was tender and flavorful, and it didn't break the bank compared to some of the delis in New York. I'm not an expert by any means, but I thought it was on par with the pastrami from Katz. My vegetarian friend had the potato knish ($6.95) and onion rings ($6.95). We've never had a knish before, but I'd describe it as mashed potatoes in ball shape. I tried a bite and found it a bit bland, but I'm also not a huge mashed potatoes kinda girl. However, the onions rings were amazingggg! Best onion rings I've had in a long time. They were fried perfectly and the batter had flavor, so even if you eat them without condiments, there is plenty of flavor on the onion ring. When we went up to pay, I saw the assortment of desserts near the register. Everything looked really good, and we got a bread pudding ($6.95) to eat later. I had it at home the next day warmed up and it was absolutely divine. Don't sleep on the desserts here too! I can see why this place is in institution. The reputation is well deserved.

Food and service was on point ! Sandwhiches prompt and hearty . We ordered 3 pastrami on rye - mustard - thinly sliced onions - pickles on the side !

Truly great bowl of beef and barley soup, and a fine corned beef sandwich. Service was efficient, even courteous. If there was anything not to love, I didn't find it on my first visit. I'll be back.

I'm trying to understand why a pastrami sandwich at Hobby's is more expensive than Katz deli in NYC. This is Newark, NJ and the sandwichs at Hobby's are great but their not even as big as Katz's. How can they justify?

Food: We got the corned beef delivered and it hit the spot! The packaging was solid and there was plenty of meat

Surprisingly found parking very easily here. Thought I would be in trouble but a lot of metered spots were open. Old school deli with the chalkboard menu and everything. The reuben with homemade onion rings was on point. The sandwich just worked. It is served open faced which is fine with me. The onion rings had a nice crunch to them. Don't sleep on the desserts either. So much good stuff...bread pudding and baklava just to name a few. Everything is prepared nicely. Dining area is no frills so don't expect some fine dining atmosphere. Love this place and I will be back.

Final meal eaten in NY/NJ during the March trip, and I was glad it was Hobby's! #5 pastrami, corned beef, slaw, russian dressing Friendly lady at counter. Absolutely delicious and perfect sandwich!!! The thin sliced meats made the already tender meat so much better to bite down on. This is the way I prefer my pastrami sando's (with excellent meats, cole slaw, russian dressing). Unfortunately only got 1 to split with wife and kid and ate it up in the car. Kid was whining he wanted more! For me, this was the better sandwich than Katz. (just like I prefer Wexler's over Langer's in LA)

This place is definitely still a classic but their portions aren't as large and their prices have gotten pretty high. Love the matzo ball soup and obviously the deli sandwiches.

Absolutely excellent deli. The folks are great. Super friendly and helpful. Some time ago they helped me out with a last minute catering order so I promised myself I'd try them myself when I was back in the area. Am i ever glad I did. We both had the open face Reuben. Reuben would have been proud!

Absolutely amazing old world deli with a gluten free menu. I had a GF wrap with pastrami, corned beef and cole slaw + provolone and fries. The fries were literal perfection. The pastrami and corned beef were so juicy and full of flavor. I wandered over during a break from jury duty but would make a trip back - no question. Good service, super kind owners.

What a gem! The service was absolutely incredible and top notch. Very nice people and makes it feel like home. Had the Mediterranean platter and it was incredible. The Ruben was also incredible with the melted cheese cooked to perfection. Hope to visit again in the future!

Dirty disgusting. When you walk in, it looks like an office with a desk and a multitude of papers very unappealing. Prices are expensive and the food is less than ordinary. Buyer beware. I worked in 3 delis as a waiter and I know what I am talking about.

Great old school spot. Corned beef is moist and piled high. Meatball knish was awesome! Had many soups all good. Friendly fast staff. Can't go wrong with this joint. Just don't wear your Ranger gear or you might get a good ribbing

I'd been hearing about Hobby's for many years - living as I have in a nearby town for the last 26 years - but never got there until today. I was on a break from court (as a juror) and since it's a short walk from the courthouse I figured now was the time. TOTALLY worth it. I had their #5 sandwich - a hugely overstuffed pastrami and corned beef on rye, with coleslaw and russian dressing, Awesome! IMO it surpasses Katz's and 2nd Ave in NY, and Canter's in LA. The fries are really good too! Like most such restaurants the ambience is nothing to write home about, but that's not why we go, is it? And the service at Hobby's, unlike the other places I mentioned, is friendly, helpful, and prompt. Definitely will go again, and would recommend it to anyone who likes deli - but considering the calorie and fat count in Jewish Deli sandwiches, it will be quite a while before that next time comes :)

Old school basics, great quality, great service and abundance of choices. Mixed crowd indicative of food that appeals to a large cross section.

The deli is a bit run down but the people were very nice. I ordered a turkey sandwich on white bread. It was on standard size white bread. The portion of fresh turkey was very generous and overall the sandwich was good. For someone petite like me it was way too much turkey and I could've done with a third of the amount. The reason for my review is that $18 for that sized sandwich is absolutely ridiculous. That's the price for just the sandwich, no chips or drink. I understand prices have been increasing however, the deli should consider having various sandwich sizes to accommodate people who don't want a what seemed like a pound of turkey.

My daughter, my new son-in-law, his uncle and I went here. They've been coming for decades and I can see why. It's a Newark institution and the food is surely the goods. But the place is totally festooned with Jersey Devils Hockey memorabilia and I'm a Philly guy and a huge Flyers fan. I couldn't swallow my sandwich no matter how tasty. The entire experience was miserable and I'm not going back. To think that Scott Stevens and Billy Smith probably ate here is completely off-putting. Ugh.

Killer pastrami sandwich, moist , good portion for the price. Awesome coleslaw, polite staff

Simply the best pastrami in NJ and maybe even in NY/NJ! So glad they are back open again. And now available via Uber!

Hobby's has reopened. Tasty sandwiches, however paying these prices and no more waiter service was a disappointment. They now just put your food in a bag and you take it to a table. No condiments on table. Pickles in a plastic baggie and mustard packets.

I was really excited to try this place because I have only heard great things. When they finally reopened after covid I had to check it out. I had the pastrami and corned beef on rye which comes with Cole slaw and Russian dressing. It was great! It definitely is a bit on the expensive side, but you get quality food and a big sandwich. I really enjoyed it and will definitely be going back to check out some other stuff on the menu. Their hours are still a bit limited, so definitely check before you go.

I spent $37 and change for a Corned Beef and a Pastrami on Rye. I received this li Green Cucumber type pickle and a strip of another pickle that was gutted , lol. On the way home I didn't smell anything like when you ride home with food and can smell your meal. The meats were just okay at best. I like Town Hall Deli better. This place is like a bootleg Katz Deli in New York. Never coming back for that price. Disappointed Big Time!!!

Your classic New Jersey deli/diner. Low key, generous portions, fresh pickles on the table you know the drill. I got the brisket on rye with Swiss, which was good however I did not realize it would not come with some gravy unless I asked. Next time I will ask. Worth visiting this unofficial Newark landmark.

My husband, my in- laws and I come in for the first time today. We got all the classics- pastrami, corn beef, potato knish and pickles. This place is the real deal and well worth the visit.

Two plus years later my DOSE was applied!!! Took two minutes at the new kiosk to wait, 30 seconds to order and five minutes to wait for my pastrami on rye with a smear....two minutes to savor the long sought after PERFECT pickles...ten minutes to SLOWLY enjoy this DREAM of a heavenly repast. Was going back for the corned beef but work forced my hand....until tomorrow....

Food is really good. I love the pickles they have on the table. Excellent service ! I went to the deli with several coworkers and we had no problem getting a seat. Go a little early if you out have a larger group.

While the pastrami on rye I ordered was okay, it wasn't as overstuffed as I would have liked, and it was kind of bland. Definitely not worth being just shy of $17.00 for a sandwich only. The restaurant is rather plain in appearance inside, and the wait staff is rather cold, yet you get what you order. The owners come and greet you, and that's nice, but it's not worth the price or effort to get there. Parking is at a premium only on the street or overpriced lots. Do yourselves a favor and travel down the turnpike to Edison and get much better food and surroundings at Harold's.

The best freshest food you will find anywhere . Homemade everything!!!! Turkey , corned beef , pastrami, soup !!!! The absolute best !!

I've been wanting to try this place for a long time. I finally did. It was an excellent choice. Great sandwiches especially the corn beef and pastrami. Coleslaw. Very good good pickles. The only problem is parking. Definitely will come back again.very pleasant the staff.

So glad Hobby's is back after a long renovation. The food is just as excellent as always. The onion rings are a must order - so fresh and flavorful. They aren't doing table service yet, you order at the counter then sit, but the owner said they hope to hire more staff to be able to do so soon.

Been hearing about this place for a while. So last week I checked it out. Ordered the corned beef on rye and a Dr Browns Blackcherry. Sadly the corned beef was very fatty. The flavor was okay. It wasn't like Peterman's or Katz's. Not sure if I'd go back. Hey gave it a shot.

Food is good. Not sure why they made such a large eating area after remodeling. Some days you can sit and order, some days you can't. It's hard to figure out which. I ordered at the counter and stood for almost 25 minutes before my sandwich was ready. It's hard to get a hot sandwich there. There doesn't seem to be any priority if order is placed at the counter. If I called in, the odds of getting a hot sandwich were going to be slim.

That was my Friday lunch treat ,chicken pot pie, pastrami and fries ! Great service,great food ! I have been down there twice since I retired !

I had an event nearby, so luckily this came up when I looked for nearby restaurants, but it is in a Newark area that doesn't have a lot of easy parking. In front is a deli counter to get your meat by the pound to go and then off to the side is a dining room. There's a lot of Devils merchandise, but the wood paneling gives off a very "we decorated in the 70s and stuck with it vibe. But how's the food? My boss raved about the Reuben, so I had no choice but to try it. It's open faced and has enough Swiss and Russian dressing to flavor up the pastrami without overwhelming it. It's a little messy to eat. It may say sandwich but it means use a fork and knife. But still lots of meat! Plus a nice side of fries, total about $15 which isn't bad for a lunch with so much meat. If it was easy for me to park quickly and run in, I'd do it all the time. I'd love to take things to go. It's cheaper than a lot of NYC delis but I'd say just as flavorful. It was the perfect amount of food for a reasonable price to hit my pastrami cravings.

Jewish Deli Awesomeness! . This Jewish Deli is still thriving in Newark NJ and the food is sooooo goood!!!! When you go here you feel like you are going back in time and I love it. You walk in and see the counter filled of delicious pastries and treat and I just wanted to buy every single one of them. . I went with a big group and we sat down at a big table and i split a sandwich with my buddy. So I had half a sandwich of pastrami and a half of corned beef. They were both unreal as I write this I want another one right now. Their meats have a bit of a Smokey flavor and are not greasy at all so you won't have that bad of a food coma going back to work. Also when you are in a Jewish deli you gotta get the latkes and they were delicious. For desert I got the black and white cookie which is one of the best I have ever had! In short: - Amazing Jewish Deli - Delicious meats - Amazing deserts - Good pric

I was tempted to rate Hobby's Delicatessen 5-stars solely because of service. This continues to be an iconic staple in the Newark area and has a rich 90+ year history. Many restaurants with a fraction of Hobby's longevity allow their acclaim to be an excuse for pretentious or downright rude service. Not the case here. At least four different employees greated me an offered assistance before I even sat at a table. The restaurant was filled with the aroma only fresh baked cookies can bestow. Oatmeal raisin. ..white chocolate macadamia nut. ..and of course chocolate chip. I came in with a specific purpose and goal. .. life changing pastrami, but after the waitress wooed me with a description of the house roasted, carved off the bone, white AND dark sliced turkey. .. I had to modify my plan. I added turkey and Cole slaw to an already ginormous sandwich. While not the most amazing cold cuts I've had, this was a very satisfying meal. The onion rings were top notch as well. If you ever find yourself in Newark, make sure you add Hobby's to your itinerary. The friendly, authentic and warm nature of the staff is representative of the locals I've encountered. Above average sandwiches top off with world class hospitality.

This place is 100% legit. Great people, great atmosphere and great food. Really authentic, great meat

I like Hobby's! Traditional and no-frills like a great deli should be. I found everyone helpful and accommodating on my first visit as well. Obviously concerned for my satisfaction and quality of food. Impressed! Sandwich generous, without being ridiculous in size or price. I'm going back, again and again!