Some sandwiches are lunch, and some sandwiches are a project. In Reno, there is a deli where the pastrami gets stacked so high that plenty of diners tap out halfway and ask for a to-go box.
It sits inside a busy casino resort, which surprises first-timers who expect only slot machines and buffets. Families on yearly ski trips plan their meals around it, and locals have kept the same favorite servers for years.
The menu leans hard into New York deli tradition, with double decker sandwiches, Reubens, matzoh ball soup, and cheesecake that keeps people coming back after dinner elsewhere. Keep reading to learn where it is, what to order, when it is open, what a meal costs, and a few smart tips that can make your visit even better.
A New York Deli Inside a Reno Resort
Finding a classic East Coast deli in northern Nevada sounds like a long shot. Yet Manhattan Deli has made that idea work for years.
The restaurant sits at 3800 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89502, in the United States, inside the Atlantis Casino Resort. It is listed on the resort website as part of its casual dining lineup.
That location matters. Guests staying at the resort can park the car, forget about it, and still eat like they took a detour through New York City.
Locals also make the trip on purpose. South Virginia Street is one of the main roads through Reno, so the deli is easy to reach from much of the city.
The concept is simple and focused. Think towering deli sandwiches, hearty soups, latkes, knishes, and a dessert case that gets plenty of attention.
It holds a 4.3-star average from more than 800 people on Google, which is a solid showing for a casino eatery. That number reflects a place that many folks trust for a big, dependable meal.
The real star, though, is the pastrami, and it deserves its own spotlight.
The Pastrami Everyone Talks About
Out of every dish on the menu, the pastrami sandwich comes up in conversation the most. It is the clear headliner here.
Diners can order it steamed or grilled, and both versions have their fans. Groups often order one of each just to compare notes.
Portions are the big draw. These sandwiches arrive packed, and many people end up saving half for later.
Not everyone walks away converted, of course. Some New York natives say the pastrami comes in smaller pieces and runs milder than what they know from back home.
Others call it the best pastrami sandwich they can remember in a long time. That split is part of the fun, since you get to settle the debate yourself.
A handy tip from regulars: if you order fries, ask for the garlic fries. They are not always obvious on the menu, and they are often compared to the ones served at ballparks.
Also consider asking for extra spread on the side. A few diners mention that the sandwiches can run light on dressing, so a quick request keeps every bite on track.
Double Deckers That Demand a Strategy
Ambition is required for the double decker. This is the sandwich that stops people in their tracks about halfway through.
The Corned Beef and Pastrami Double is a favorite, combining the two signature meats in one stacked creation. It does not always look huge in photos, but it gets serious once you start eating.
Plenty of solo diners admit they could not finish it. Sharing is a smart move, or you can plan on leftovers.
Adventurous eaters have other options too. One double decker pairing combines beef tongue with corned beef, a classic deli choice that is harder to find in this part of the country.
Some people note these meats are a little less salty than the New York versions. For many, that makes them easier to enjoy.
Pace yourself here. Order the double with a light appetite, skip the extra appetizer, and save room for dessert if you can.
The double decker is less a meal and more a friendly challenge, and very few people leave hungry.
Reubens and Other Deli Classics
Second place in the popularity contest goes to the Reuben. It comes up again and again among regulars.
You can get it with corned beef or pastrami, which lets you customize the classic. Fans call it a must-order and recommend it often.
The corned beef sandwich on grilled sourdough also has a loyal following. One family has made it a highlight of their annual ski trip for more than a decade.
Consistency can vary from visit to visit. Some longtime guests feel recent sandwiches were not filled the way they used to be, while others say they have never had a bad meal.
Beyond sandwiches, the menu goes wider than many expect. There is a New York steak, cheese blintzes, a power mix salad, and even pizza, which gets a surprising amount of mention.
Breakfast-style fans can find lox with bagel and cream cheese. One regular orders it on a toasted everything bagel with extra capers.
The variety means picky eaters in the group will not be stuck. Still, the deli sandwiches remain the main reason to come.
Soups, Latkes, and Knishes Worth a Detour
Sandwiches get the headlines, but the sides and starters have their own fan club. Matzoh ball soup is near the top of the list.
The matzoh ball itself is often described as enormous. A cup of the soup is considered a good value.
Potato latkes come with both applesauce and sour cream, so there is no need to choose. They lean thin and crispy rather than thick and fluffy.
Knishes are another strong pick. Some say they hold their own against long-running delis in New York City.
Size is a theme here as well. One couple ordered two knishes thinking they would be small and quickly learned otherwise.
Chicken noodle soup and sweet potato waffle fries also earn praise. The waffle fries are a fun swap if you want something different with your sandwich.
One note: a few longtime guests miss the older version of the chicken in a pot. If that was once your favorite, it may be worth trying something new.
A cup of soup and a knish can make a full meal on its own.
Cheesecake and the Famous Black and White Cookies
Some people come for the sandwiches, and some skip straight to dessert. The cheesecake has a reputation all its own.
It is described as genuine New York cheesecake, and it inspires loyalty. One couple returns for cheesecake and coffee to celebrate birthdays, even after eating dinner somewhere else.
Even diners who were not wowed by their sandwiches say the cheesecake made the trip worthwhile. One suggestion is to share a meal so you have room for a slice.
The black and white cookies are another standout. These round treats, half chocolate and half vanilla frosting, are a classic New York deli item.
Fun fact: black and white cookies are more cake than cookie in texture, which is why they feel so filling.
Other sweets include apple pie and bread pudding. The dessert list gives you plenty of reasons to linger.
Takeout is easy too. A slice to go can turn into a nice treat back at your hotel room or home.
Servers Who Know Your Order
Staff names come up often at this deli, and that says a lot. Regulars have favorite servers they request by name.
One local has kept the same two servers for five years, especially on Senior Mondays. Another longtime guest always asks for a particular server on every visit.
Many describe the team as friendly, attentive, and helpful with recommendations. Some note the attention feels unobtrusive, which is nice during a long meal.
Small touches stand out as well. Quality paper napkins and handled paper bags for to-go boxes make guests feel looked after.
There is also a bit of tech in the mix. Robotic server assistance has been spotted, which adds a fun twist to a traditional deli.
Service is not flawless every time. Some mention longer waits for food or servers who check in less often than expected.
Still, the overall pattern is warm and welcoming. Celebrations like milestone birthdays happen here regularly, which shows how comfortable people feel.
The Casino Setting and Who It Suits
Expect some casino energy around your meal. The deli sits inside a working resort, and that shapes the setting.
Decor and seating get compliments. Many find the space comfortable and attractive despite the busy surroundings.
Music can be loud at times, and the casino environment is hard to escape. If you want a quiet meal, an off-peak visit may help.
Seating options are flexible. Some guests have eaten in the nearby sports bar while ordering from the deli menu.
So who is it for? Resort guests who want a reliable meal without driving anywhere will love the convenience.
Skiers passing through Reno often make it a regular stop. Locals who miss East Coast deli food also find a familiar menu here.
It also works well for anyone tired of buffet lines. One couple wondered why anyone would wait hours for a buffet when this option exists.
Big appetites, families, and small celebrations all fit right in.
Hours, Costs, and Smart Planning
Late lunch, early dinner, or a late-night slice of cheesecake all work with this schedule. The deli keeps generous hours.
It opens at 11 AM every day. From Sunday through Thursday, it closes at 10 PM.
On Friday and Saturday, it stays open until 11 PM. That makes it handy for a post-show or after-ski meal.
Plan on about $20 to $30 per person. Drinks can add up, since coffee and fountain drinks have been listed around $5 each.
One solo diner ended up near $40 with a sandwich and drinks. Extra sides like coleslaw also carry an added charge, and portions of some sides can be small.
The best value comes from the main dishes. The sandwiches are big enough that sharing is realistic and leftovers are common.
Senior Mondays are popular with older locals, so ask about it if that applies to you.
For details, the Atlantis Casino Resort website lists the deli under casual dining.
Why the Regulars Keep Returning
Loyalty like this is hard to fake. Couples fly in from New Hampshire and always fit in at least one meal here.
Families build ski trips around it. Locals keep their favorite servers for years and return weekly.
The pastrami is the main event, and the portions match the title promise. Big sandwiches remain the reason most people walk in.
It is fair to say not every visit is perfect. Some longtime fans notice ups and downs, and New York purists may want a little more from the meat.
Yet the overall picture is strong. Soups, knishes, latkes, cheesecake, and black and white cookies round out a menu that covers deli comfort food well.
Bring an appetite, or bring a friend to split the double decker. Ask for garlic fries, request extra spread, and leave room for cheesecake.
For a taste of New York deli tradition in the middle of Reno, Manhattan Deli makes a convincing case.
Just plan to carry a to-go bag out the door, because that sandwich is not going to finish itself.
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