Slyman's Restaurant and Deli

Fantastic corned beef sandwich. Very big and good quality. I just got the straight up corned beef with no cheese. I wanted to taste the corned beef and it was great. I took a bite and all the sudden the clouds parted, a beam of sunlight shown down on me, and I could hear angels singing, and there was a tear rolling down my cheek. Seriously it's really good!!

“If you’re from Cleveland and haven’t been to Slyman’s — are you even from Cleveland?” This St. Clair Avenue staple has been serving up legendary corned beef since 1964, and let me tell you — it lives up to the hype. Whether you’re a regular or just passing through, Slyman’s delivers that perfect blend of flavor, tradition, and heart. I ordered the Lite Classic Corned Beef sandwich with Swiss — still stacked high, just not the full beast. The corned beef was insanely tender, juicy, and full of flavor. No dryness, no chew — just pure deli greatness. The Swiss added that perfect salty punch, and the rye bread was soft and fresh, holding it all together like a champ. I paired it with the bacon cheese fries, which were everything you’d hope for — golden fries smothered in melted cheddar and topped with crispy bacon. Zero regrets. Pure indulgence. Food-wise? 8.5/10. Portion, quality, and taste were all on point. Presentation was clean and solid, especially for a quick-turnaround deli. But the best part? The woman at the register. As she ran my card, she looked up, smiled, and said, “Thank you, Justin, for stopping by. People from out of town really make this place magical for us.” That moment stuck with me. It was simple, heartfelt, and reminded me why Slyman’s is more than just a sandwich shop — it’s a piece of Cleveland’s soul. I didn’t catch her name, but that kindness is something I won’t forget. Slyman’s is open Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 2:30 PM. No weekends. So plan ahead and show up hungry. Bottom line: Slyman’s isn’t trendy, it’s timeless. It’s the kind of place that makes locals proud and visitors feel welcome. If you’re in town, go experience it for yourself — one bite, and you’ll get it.

This is absolutely, hands down, no contest the best corned beef sandwich on the planet. The corned beef sandwich is over $20, but it can easily be split by 2 or 3 people depending on your appetite. On top of that, the staff is extremely friendly and helpful. When I come back to Cleveland, I will have to stop by Slyman's.

One of the best corned beef and pastrami sandwiches I’ve ever had! Fast and friendly service made the experience even better. A must-try!

Slyman's has been an institution on the East side for years, and it's easy to see why. The corned beef is iconic - cooked to perfection, shaved thin, and piled high. It's tall enough that it's basically impossible to get your mouth around it. I got an order of potato pancakes on the side, and those were perfectly executed as well - crispy on the outside and creamy in the middle - with sour cream and applesauce on the side. Service was fast and friendly, and prices are reasonable for what you get. I'm already planning what I'm going to order for my next visit!

Classic Jewish deli fare. Management is apparently Christian, based on the religious pamphlets and the large Bible next to the menus, but no matter. The corned beef and pastrami are as good as any. Service is no-nonsense but friendly.

Best sandwich I’ve had in my life, I honestly can’t think of another sandwich I enjoyed more. Service was fast, & everyone was super friendly! I LOVED seeing the Bibles, & verses that were around the restaurant.

I always visit Slyman’s when I’m in the mood for a Corned Beef Sandwich or a Rueben. They are consistent when it comes to the tenderness of the corned beef. Not too much fat on your sandwich, but the sandwich is so big it’s hard to eat it all at once. The pickle is really small though. That’s a little disappointing because I actually like pickles and the sandwich is so big it could use a little more pickle without extra cost. The sandwich itself is $22, but they do have different portions and options to choose from. Sometimes I order their crinkle cut fries or sometimes I enjoy my sandwich with a bag of chips from the store. Either way, Slyman’s never disappoints. Also I’ve never had an issue with customer service here. The family that owns it are nice, down to earth people. Take out never there longer that 10 minutes, unless it’s St. Patrick’s Day.

From NJ and NY. The ONly Competition Slymans has is Harold's in Edison. Blow Katz and the rest away. Take it from a food critic. ME! Sammy is God!!

Not cheap but incredibly incredibly fast service with huge portions. Brunch only- open til 230pm with breakfast and lunch while they're open. Food came out within 2 minutes of ordering and I tried multiple items. Deliciously flavorful corned beef and pastrami. The pastrami melt had perfectly toasted bread and there are mayo and thousand island bottles at every table to baste your food in- as it should be. This place is no frills and all the flavor. Definitely the juiciest best corned beef and pastrami I've had in Cleveland! It's not often I have a lot to say about staff other than just "good service", but this place is unique. Without exception, every person who walked in was treated like family. Honest to God over 75% of the people who came in ended up talking to the owners- who are actively working amongst the rest of the staff- about their moms and dads, health updates and jobs, etc. Several folks sat down to eat near me and began discussing how many decades they'd been eating at Slyman's. Even as a first timer, when I left the hostess said goodbye Amy! What a fantastically warm environment to feel like family in this place. Everyone truly cares.

The food and service were terrific - fun and friendly. The Reuben my husband got was enough for 2 people and the corned beef was really lean. He replaced the kraut with coleslaw and it was perfect; not too runny. I got a cod sandwich that was good as well. Just the right size. The fries were also great. Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Really yummy. We highly recommend this local institution!

Had to travel up to CLE from CBus and needed a quick bite before for the return trip. A guys gotta eat. Everything I remember for the BEST Corned Beef sandwich you can get in Ohio. So tender and tasty. If you are a sandwich lover, add this to your list. Just get the Corned Beef on rye. Do not add cheese or any condiments. It does not need a thing. Exceptional flavor. Get there early for lunch as a line will quickly form. Service is quick and very personable. You will order at counter for take out or dine in. My takeout order was ready in about 90 seconds. Faster than fast food! If you dine in, they will serve you at your table. Dining at on a little small but true old school CLE. Such a great vibe. They are on my must stop list for and CLE runs. You will not be disappointed!

What's popping Yelpers? Well the fatboy was in Cleveland, OH. On my way to DC. When I figured hey why not have a corned beef sandwich?! So I stopped into Slyman's! What a great decision. The place just has a smell of deliciousness as soon as you come through the door! It's has sort of an old style diner feel to it. Pictures of celebrities on the wall. Mainly Henry Winkler (The Fonz.... Ayyyeee) and I noticed a picture of President Biden! I was greeted by such a pleasant woman who took my order with such a welcoming smile. She let the wifey & I come behind the register to sit at the counter to watch them prepare the sandwiches. We got to meet the owner. They've been in business since 1963 and I can see why. Not only was the service great but the sandwiches were excellent! We got a pastrami sandwich on rye with mustard & we ordered the corned beef Ruben. Now to start I must say the service gets a 10/10. The women who I met were so Very pleasant. The Pastrami Sandwich was so delicious. The pastrami was tender with a nice saltiness and it was complimented with a nice mild smoke flavor!! They give you extra bread because the sandwiches are LOADED with meat! The Pastrami was the best I've tasted (so far) 9/10 The Corned Beef Ruben was pretty good. The corned beef was nicely seasoned, very, very tender and they pile it on!! The 1000 didn't add the sweetness I was looking for. And the Kraut wasn't too tangy. Very good sandwich all in all. Solid 8.7/10. They also gave us real kosher dill deli pickles. So fresh and crunchy 9.5/10! My experience here was amazing! 10/10 for the experience! I'll be back in Cleveland Sunday returning back home. I'm definitely stopping by Monday morning on my way back to Chicago!! If you're ever in Cleveland, OH I advise that you go to Slyman's!! (Remember all reviews are subjective)

I've been craving their Corned beef sandwich since I found out we were going to Cleveland a few months back. A stacked, thinly sliced corned beef sandwich is a signature meal in this town, so I had the tough decision of choosing between Barristers and Slymans. Honestly I found Barristers first but when I seen the photos of Slymans sandwiches, my mind was made up. Today's experience goes into my food history as one of my most memorable moments. The staff are friendly, the restaurant was clean, and the food was amazing. One of the owners even came out to welcome use and chat with me about Iron Maiden, cool! Our meals arrived in record time and we're super fresh. I have to admit it is kind of expensive but you get a lot for the money. My corned beef melt was $21 and the side of potato salad was $4.50. Nancy's got two egg with cheese on the for $6 and Nancy's sister got a sausage and cheese omelette $8 with home fries with onions $5.50, and a cup of coffee $2.25. We loved all the three stooges memorabilia and how quickly we were able to get in and out in record time because we were heading out of Cleveland today. If you ever in the area I highly recommend you stop in for a bite to eat.

If you are on the fence and can't decide between the pastrami and the corned beef, please trust me on this one...get the corned beef!! I got the combo (off-menu, equal portions of both), and I wish I had gotten all corned beef. When they (and all the reviews) say they're the best in town, believe them. Now I can't say they're better than all the New York and LA Jewish delis...but their corned beef is damn good! Oh..and yes, the line is long and moves quickly. And the place is old, old, old school inside. But it's all part of the charm. If you're from out of town (like we are) it's definitely worth a visit. If you're not, you already know about Slyman's. They're the best town!!

Best turkey Reubens you'll ever have. The fries were decent. It's incredibly busy on a Sunday, so be patient. The staff are nice and do their best. The pricing is very fair. They have a parking lot, but we found a spot on the street. Most ppl get their orders to go, but we dined in. There are some interesting pictures to keep you entertained.

When there is a line to get in, it's going to be good! It was. Melt in your mouth corned beef!

Agree with review just below - just a bit grimy- but that kinda helps. Long outside line - went quite quick . Shared corned beef sandwich & bowl of soup - all salad was sold out! Everything tasted great. Cashier was fun place has atmosphere! No wonder they are so popular. 4 Minnesota Viking football players arrived on electric bikes and chowed down after practice.

The best corned beef In the USA!! There is always a line so be patient coming. I been to Katz Deli in NYC, imo, I think Slyman serves a better corned beef sandwich and Reuben. Come try it out if you're in downtown Cleveland. The food is amazing the the service was excellent as well.

This Texan found corned beef Mecca in Cleveland. Simply the best ever. I ate on the first sandwich for three days, then bought and froze another one to take home. It made it just fine and I am saving it to be eaten later.

Hit this place after shopping at the Westside Market in Cleveland. Had to get the famous Slyman's Corned Beef with Swiss cheese on toasted rye. Let me say this sandwich ROCKS! Corned beef piled to the ceiling and had the perfect flavor. I have not had this kind of sandwich since I was at Sherman's Deli in Palm Springs CA.. The potato pancakes were decent too. I would recommend anyone that is wondering if it would be worth the drive? I say YES!! Oh, I'll be back next visit for sure.

22.50 Pastrami reuben. Fantastic. Better than Katz. Those that ordered the melt got a bit more meat. They servers work their butt off and serve you if you dine-in. Bring cash for tips- they deserve it. The potato pancakes are a pass. The cherry peppers are a must. The line took us about 30 minutes. Food delivery another 10. Start to end 75 minutes.

Best corned beef. I hope they brought the wait staff back after Covid. That was part of the fun of going there. When you see police officers and business people dining there you know it's good. Don't know if there's any relationship to the other Slymans but this was always the best one. I need to get back there.

A good friend, and I went to Slyman's on Wednesday for breakfast. I had not been there in over a decade for breakfast. I had picked up sandwiches a few times over the years. It brought back great memories to have breakfast there. My friend had the corned beef omelette with fried potatoes, and I had the corned beef, fried potatoes, and two eggs over easy. Both with coffees. Because of all the walk-in to go orders, the waitress takes your order at the door, and then you sit down. We found a nice table in the corner. It was not crowded at 10 AM, but they had a line for to go orders. Our waitress was awesome and brought us the coffees right away. Then came our food, which was piping hot! They give you a ton of food! When we both looked at it, we said there is no way we would finish it. We saw a lot of plates on tables, with food left on them. So I honestly thought that would happen to us. But when we dove into our breakfast plates, everything was so delicious, I think we changed our minds. We devoured our plates, over 2 cups of coffee. Everything tasted fantastic and the waitress was super nice! If I lived in Cleveland, I would have breakfast there at least twice a week. What a great local place! The ambiance is not fancy, but it is a 60 year old breakfast joint, so there is no disappointment there. I highly recommend.

The best corn beef restaurant in the city of Cleveland by far I love going there!! This restaurant on Saint Clair Avenue is the best. The service is extremely nice and friendly. The food quickly comes out and just feel good when you walk in the door knowing that you're gonna come out with a great corned beef sandwich.

Best place in town cornbeef was good I would recommend it to anybody to stop in better get u one worth the wait

Slyman's was just a small simple restaurant with mainly carry out but very enjoyable. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. Service was amazing seemed like I received my food minutes after sitting down. The corned beef was the best I have had and definitely the biggest sandwich too. I definitely see why it is so highly recommended.

This was such a great experience! The line was out the door but they are moving so quick with getting orders in and out! We were only in line about 8 minutes and the staff were so welcoming! It's very small in the inside but there is a small bar like area and dining area for small groups. Luckily we were able to dine in with a party of 5! I ordered one Rueben and a pound of cornbeef to go and my total came up to $57 pretty much what i expected to pay! I got the sauerkraut on the side because I'd never had it but it was a great addition! I also tried the potato cakes which came with sour cream and apple sauce! I thought what a weird combination but it was actually very good! We also got the fried mushrooms and they were so hot and fresh! Of course i could only eat half of my sandwich so i got a good little snack for later! The staff were great! Tables stayed cleaned and ready for the next to dine! They're only open Mon-Fri 7:30am - 2:30pm & closed Saturdays and Sundays! You know they have a great business to be off all weekend! I'm sure they are busy from the time they open until the time they close! We were visiting family in OH and told that we had to come to get a Slymans sandwich and it def didn't disappoint!

10/10. The pastrami sandwich and corned beef were both the best sandwiches I have ever had in my life. I couldn't finish them they were so big. The staff are the friendliest. The line to get in was 20 minutes wait but it was worth it! The seating was slim. We were lucky to get a table. It was a little pricey but you get what you pay for. I will recommend this to anyone going to Cleveland.

The food here is to die for. Well atleast the cornbeef & Ruben. The service is great even though you gotta wait, everyone is polite and helpful. And the ambiance is like a great smelling diner.

A little grimy, this place doesn't look like much from outside but some of the best food you'll ever eat is served in places like Slyman's. Institutions in the cities they serve. Here you will have some of the best roast beef, pastrami, and corned beef you've ever eaten served on freshly baked rye bread. Just amazingly, mouthwatering, delicious food and awesome service as well. The ladies running the cash and table service that day were really sweet and attentive. We ordered a pastrami melt, a couple of corned beef melts, a turkey melt, and then chicken tenders and fries for the kiddos. The corned beef was so delicious. It melted in my mouth it was so tender and perfectly seasoned. The rye bread though was my favorite part. It was soft, had a great texture, and just the right amount of caraway. We ended up buying a loaf. Everyone else devoured their food. There was little left, even the kids ate all their tenders which is rare. All and all a GREAT choice. Would I go again if I visited Cleveland again, 100% I would, multiple times. It is a must visit. We ordered

You won't find a better corned beef sandwich outside of NYC. Small intimate space a friendly a staple of Cleveland for years. The meat is cooked and sliced to perfection. Get the bread toasted; such a delicious, crunchy, buttery rye bread you can sink your teeth Into. All the service is like a well oiled machine. Very fast and friendly. Worth every penny!

My husband is a pastrami freak, he insists on researching the best pastrami in each state we visit. And Slymans came up as the number 1 in Ohio so we had to make the visit. The owner/staff/workers are all friendly and kind hearted. They make you feel like you have visited a million times and they are just happy to see you again! The place is clean and tidy but it not a "luxury" place. But who cares when the food is this good. The pastrami is great, but the corned beef is going to haunt my dreams.... It is one of the best sandwiches I've ever had! Like seriously.... Don't sleep on this sandwich, it is exceptional.

Amazing sandwich's the best I've ever had the food is amazing soo delicious . The service was good and the people so friendly.

Have you been to the legendary Slymans? A Cleveland staple! This family owned deli is a quick ride from downtown at the corner of Saint Clair and E 31st Street! If you're a local you already know and if you are just visiting, make sure to stop in! Slymans's is know for their massive sandwiches loaded with meats and variety of brunch options with an overall old school deli experience and ambiance! Be sure to plan ahead, this is a popular spot and usually busy but don't worry, the line moves fast with passionate and friendly staff. Low table seating is available and takeout is always a great option! Check out the menu with a range of option's and add on a canned or bottled beverage, coffee, and desserts! Don't miss out!

Delicious deli sandwiches with an old school vibe. I ordered the Lite Corned Beef Reuben and my daughter had the Turkey Melt. Both were excellent and we highly recommend both. Don't be fooled by the "Lite" options on the menu--they're still quite large and a very satisfying portion. The potato pancakes were also quite good and I very much appreciate that they are served with BOTH apple sauce and sour cream. Some may say the prices are high, but this is to be expected at quality delis, so live it up and enjoy a great sandwich here. Pro Tip: get here before noon to avoid a long line out the door.

After spending half the day at the Rock n Roll hall of fame. I wanted to come here, to Slyman's. I just wanted to see for myself how big these sandwiches are. Since I've seen it piled high on TV. They are pretty huge. We got here an hour before closing. During the time we came, it was just order and go. The tables were blocked off. My sister got the Corned Beef Sandwich. I originally wanted to try the Pastrami Reuben, by the time we got here, they were sold out of Pastrami! I settled for a Slyman's Burger. Oh man, that Corned Beef, sliced thin and good flavor. I kept eating the slices of my burger. I wasn't much of a fan of the sides we chose but meh both the Burger and the sandwich were good. Very filling in fact we had enough leftover for a nice little breakfast the next morning. I am certain we will be making a return visit, I want to taste that Pastrami.

Slyman's is legendary in Cleveland. We stopped in on a recent visit, right from the airport! It is definitely worth the trip whether you live in town or are just passing through. It can be very busy, but their team is really nice, and the service is fast. We are from Cleveland but live down south now. We haven't ever been able find any corned beef that comes close to comparing. The food was excellent as always. I got a smaller corned beef sandwich with mustard, pickle, a drink as well as salt and vinegar chips. It was more than filling. This location has a neighborhood feel, and you can immediately see why people love to come!

I live in independence. I don't go to the Slymans In my town. there is one downtown on St. Clair. That's the real one. The other ones are off imposters. Trust me if you go down there and get one of their sandwiches you'll never go back to the other ones. They're juicy their fresh. They cut it right there. It is really good. and the menu has other items on it too. Excellent potato pancakes. Trust me it's worth going there. I just went again Wednesday and was super happy once again. Never been disappointed down there. Nice atmosphere. Great friendly people.

Great corned beef sandwiches. Various food options on menu. Onion ring appetizer serves several people. Plenty of seating options. Friendly servers.

The best reuben sandwich I've ever eaten. The place isn't fancy but it's just about perfect!

Corned beef is great. Service is great. Prices somewhat steep. People working here are very pleasant and accompanying. Best corned beef in Cleveland.

Ready in like 3 minutes with a line out the door. So delicious. Great friendly people.

Slymans hot pastrami melt with Swiss cheese just touched my soul...... We were greeted at the cashier with a friendly hello and a smile. As we waited for the order to be taken the aroma of the meats infused my n95 mask pleasingly. Excitement just builds from there. Our order was taken with really a short wait which was no problem. I chatted with other visitors in line about the sandwiches. Our other was taken, and we were offered a table to sit. The dining area was basic but comfortably spread out and clean. Condiments are at the table including 1000 isle dressing kept cool in another area. Our orders were delivered to the table with an ENJOY YOUR MEALS. FRESH sliced and warm, with dill pickles. First bite was just incredible juicy peppery and tender pastrami with buttery grilled rye bread. I chewed and savored the flavor with my eyes closed as hubby just stared at me I'm sure.. my smile he said said it ALL. total enjoy. The sandwiches are so large I could only eat half not wanting my heart rate to drop,lol no I'm so serious tho. So we really enjoyed this meal and would love to visit before we leave..I LOVE SLYMANS!!

Eating this half pastrami half corned beef Reuben was a religious experience. It's so big I was only going to eat half however the meat was so delicious and tender, I had to eat the whole thing. I only wish they were open later or on weekends, so I could eat there again my second week in Cleveland.

With short notice, the staff at Slyman's gladly welcomed our 40+ bus tour group for dinner and provided quick, friendly service and delicious food. We enjoyed the corned beef and perogies the most, but everything was tasty.

There are so many five-star reviews for this place... And they're all true. This is the best corned beef sandwich in Ohio, and literally the only complaint you could ever have is the price -- It is pretty expensive. But honestly, a regular sandwich is essentially 2 meals. Also, the appetizer Sauerkraut Balls are amazing. I'll attach a picture of half of the sandwich I got to go. Yeah -- that's half of the sandwich...

Can't get any better than this. Great service and the corned beef was amazing. Very most and suggest getting the bread grilled.

Corn beef sandwich so good, I've never tried anything else It all looks great Maybe one day I'll get two sandwiched

Just go. Great food and the folks who work there are great. I was in town from Minnesota and it was the highlight of my work trip.

Corned Beef Heaven. Best on the planet hands down. Always exceptional, never disappoints.

Food was great!!!!we were lucky not to long of a line for ordering, it was a Monday around 12pm

World Class Pastrami!! The staff was very helpful despite the restaurant having a line out the door! It's loud but part of the experience! Highly recommended!!

The best corned beef sandwich anywhere!!! This is the old world way. Corned beef stacked high on fresh rye bread.

A must if you live around Cleveland or are visiting! The sandwiches are definitely made with the old school love you don't really see anymore - my coworkers and I used to go to the Slymans in Independence as it is a Cleveland favorite to show to people from out of town, but the downtown location quality and charm is unbearable. The service was also great as everyone was super friendly

Landmark deli with several tables and legendary oversized sandwiches. Worth a takeout in Cleveland.

While on vacation we were looking for a good sandwich and came across the reviews for this place. While we waited in the line that was out the door, there were a few locals that helped us tweak our order. I had the corned beef and like every 5 star review before, the sandwich was Great! We drove 30 min out of our way to try this sandwich and we were not disappointed.