7 Shocking Secrets And Current Updates About The Iconic Deli In 'When Harry Met Sally'
The New York City deli that became immortalized in cinematic history is more than just a backdrop for a famous fake orgasm—it is a living, breathing monument to Jewish-American culinary tradition and romantic comedy gold. As of December 12, 2025, the legendary location remains a must-visit destination, but its story is constantly evolving, with new secrets and major updates keeping the decades-old scene fresh for a new generation of fans. From a recent, high-profile reunion of the film's stars to the current, eye-watering price of the iconic sandwich, here is the essential, up-to-date guide to the deli where Sally Albright taught Harry Burns a lesson in public performance.
The deli in question is, of course, Katz's Delicatessen, located on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. The 1989 film, When Harry Met Sally..., directed by Rob Reiner and written by Nora Ephron, cemented the nearly century-old establishment's place in pop culture forever. The scene, which culminates in the unforgettable line, "I'll have what she's having," is still celebrated today, drawing thousands of tourists and movie buffs to its doors every week.
The Essential Biography of Katz's Delicatessen
Katz's Delicatessen is one of the most famous and enduring institutions in New York City. Its history is deeply intertwined with the Jewish immigrant experience in the Lower East Side, making it a cultural landmark far beyond its cinematic fame.
- Official Name: Katz's Delicatessen
- Location: 205 East Houston Street, Lower East Side, Manhattan, New York City.
- Founded: 1888 (Originally called Iceland Brothers, before being renamed Katz's Delicatessen in 1910).
- Famous For: Pastrami on Rye, Corned Beef, and the "Send a Salami to Your Boy in the Army" slogan from World War II.
- Iconic Film Scene: The fake orgasm scene in When Harry Met Sally... (1989).
- Key People: Meg Ryan (Sally Albright), Billy Crystal (Harry Burns), Rob Reiner (Director), Nora Ephron (Screenwriter), Estelle Reiner (Actress who delivered the famous line).
- Current Owner: Jake Dell (The great-grandson of the original owner, continuing the family legacy).
- Seating Capacity: Approximately 300 people, maintaining its original, cavernous layout.
- Distinguishing Feature: The ticket system, where customers receive a numbered ticket upon entry that must be presented when paying, a tradition designed to prevent theft during its early days.
The Scene That Changed Everything: Behind the Orgasm
The infamous "I'll have what she's having" scene is not only the most quoted moment from the film but is widely regarded as one of the greatest moments in cinematic history. Its creation and execution are full of fascinating, little-known details that highlight the genius of its creators, Nora Ephron and Rob Reiner.
1. The Line Was an Improvised Masterpiece
The iconic punchline, "I'll have what she's having," was not written by screenwriter Nora Ephron. It was improvised on the spot by director Rob Reiner's own mother, Estelle Reiner, who was cast for the small, yet pivotal, role. Her delivery perfectly encapsulated the scene's blend of shock and casual observation, providing the perfect button to Meg Ryan’s performance.
2. The Table Is Now a Dedicated Landmark
To celebrate the scene's enduring legacy, Katz's Delicatessen has permanently marked the exact table where Sally Albright and Harry Burns sat. A large, yellow sign now hangs over the booth, declaring: "Where Harry Met Sally... Hope You Have What She Had! Enjoy!" This has turned the booth into a prime photo opportunity for visitors, making it the most sought-after seat in the entire restaurant.
3. Nora Ephron's Personal Connection to the Deli
The choice of Katz's was no accident. Nora Ephron, the legendary screenwriter, was a lifelong New Yorker and a huge fan of the classic Jewish deli experience. She specifically chose Katz's for its authentic, old-school atmosphere, which she felt was the perfect, contrasting backdrop for such a raucous, modern scene about sexual politics. Her love for food and New York is a recurring theme in her work, from this film to *Sleepless in Seattle* and *Julie & Julia*.
The Ultimate 2025 Visitor's Guide: Price, Menu, and Reunion
For fans planning a pilgrimage to Katz's Delicatessen today, the experience is largely unchanged, offering the same classic atmosphere, albeit with a few modern updates and, notably, a much higher price tag for its famed fare. The deli remains a hub of activity, especially following a major recent event that brought the spotlight back to the film.
4. The Current Price of the Iconic Sandwich Will Shock You
The star of the show at Katz's is the gigantic, hand-carved Pastrami on Rye sandwich. While the quality and sheer volume of meat remain legendary, the price has kept pace with New York City's rising costs. As of the most recent updates, the famous Pastrami on Rye sandwich is priced at approximately $28.95 to $30.95. This price reflects the quality of the meat, the hand-carving process, and the sheer volume of the sandwich, which is often considered a meal for two.
5. The 2024 Super Bowl Reunion Ad Was a Massive Viral Hit
In one of the most significant recent updates, Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan reunited at Katz's Delicatessen for a Super Bowl LVIII commercial for Hellmann's mayonnaise. The ad, titled "When Sally Met Hellmann's," was a direct, 60-second recreation of the famous scene, with a modern, humorous twist related to food waste. The commercial was a viral sensation, proving that 35 years after the film's release, the chemistry between Harry and Sally—and the power of the deli setting—still resonates.
6. The Deli Was Already Famous—Not Just a Movie Set
While the film gave Katz's Delicatessen international recognition, it was already a beloved and historic institution in New York City. Founded in 1888, it had been a staple of the Jewish Lower East Side for over a century, famous for its hand-carved meats, mustard, and its World War II-era slogan, "Send a Salami to Your Boy in the Army." The authenticity of the location was precisely why Rob Reiner and Nora Ephron chose it.
Beyond the Deli: Other Iconic Filming Locations
Katz's is just one of many memorable New York City locations featured in the film. The movie is essentially a love letter to Manhattan, utilizing its most picturesque and recognizable sites to frame the evolving relationship between Harry and Sally. Fans of the film can create an entire walking tour based on these locations, strengthening the film's topical authority as a definitive NYC rom-com.
7. The Best NYC Locations from ‘When Harry Met Sally...’
The film is a virtual map of Manhattan, showcasing key areas from Greenwich Village to the Upper West Side.
- Washington Square Park: The location where Harry and Sally first arrive in New York after their grueling cross-country drive. The iconic Washington Square Arch provides a grand entrance to the city.
- The Met's Temple of Dendur: A beautiful, lesser-known spot where Harry and Sally have a serious, pivotal discussion about their relationship.
- The Boathouse at Central Park: The setting for a double date between Harry, Sally, Jess, and Marie, showcasing the romantic side of the park.
- Plant Shed: Located on the Upper West Side, this is where Harry and Sally buy their Christmas tree, carrying it down the street in a classic holiday scene.
- Bethesda Terrace: Another famous Central Park spot, known for its beautiful architecture and fountain, which appears in a montage scene.
Katz's Delicatessen is more than just a piece of movie trivia; it is a cultural touchstone that has successfully navigated decades of change, from its founding in the 19th century to its starring role in the 20th, and its viral resurgence in the 21st. The next time you visit, remember the history, the price of the pastrami, and the woman at the next table who had the last word.
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