Two famous NYC restaurants were just named among the ‘most legendary’ restaurants in the world

New York has long been one of the greatest cities in the world – and with restaurants to match. Now, some of these restaurants are getting mainstream recognition.

Online travel guide TasteAtlas just released its list of the world’s 100 most legendary restaurants, ranking places that are “renowned for longevity, reliability and iconic dishes” and “embodies the spirit of their cities.”

New Yorkers won’t be surprised to learn that of the 23,952 traditional restaurants in the TasteAtlas database, the Big Apple made the list twice.

Katz’s Delicatessen, just off the Lower East Side’s Houston Street, was named the most iconic restaurant in the Big Apple — and eighth in the world.

The spot, a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike, has been serving up delicious sandwiches and neighborhood favorites since 1888. It’s also often credited with offering the best Reuben sandwich in all of New York.

Originally opened as Iceland Brothers across the street, the restaurant is also known as the city’s oldest eatery.

The nearby immigrant neighborhoods and lack of public transportation options helped the restaurant become a community staple from the start.

Although local theaters first attracted actors to the food, it has since been visited by A-listers, referenced in books and used as a backdrop for the filming of popular movies – most famously in the fake orgasm scene of When Harry Met Sally.

Katz’s allure is his signature take on old New York.

“This consistently packed spot maintains its old-school vibe, a signature menu — including legendary pastrami — and consistently superior quality,” TasteAtlas said.

Their corned beef and pastrami are cured using a specific slow method that can take up to 30 days compared to most commercially prepared beef, which is often pressure-injected to cure in 36 hours, according to Katz’s website.

The classic atmosphere and quality servings are why Katz’s Delicatessen often has a line of hungry people who start under the familiar sign and wrap around the block waiting to enjoy its many dishes.

But of the nearly 49,000 restaurants in NYC, Katz’s isn’t the only one to make the list of the world’s most legendary restaurants.

Peter Luger Steak House, located just across the bridge in Williamsburg, ranks as the city’s second most legendary restaurant — and 15th in the world.

Best known for its dry-aged portage, the Brooklyn steakhouse credits its stunning success to “exclusively using the finest, carefully selected USDA Prime beef,” noted TasteAtlas.

Catering to customers since 1887, the wonderful restaurant has earned its status as a legend, not to mention a Michelin star.