Reuben’s Deli in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go
If you’re craving a hearty sandwich in downtown Atlanta, Reuben’s Deli is a long-standing local favorite for classic deli fare with an international twist. Whether you work nearby, are in town for a convention, or are exploring the city as a visitor, this spot often comes up when people look for New York–style delis and international-style sandwiches in Atlanta.
Below is a practical, Atlanta-focused guide to what Reuben’s Deli is, what to expect, and how to make the most of a visit.
Where Reuben’s Deli Fits in Atlanta’s Food Scene
Reuben’s Deli is typically associated with:
- Category: Restaurants
- Sub-category: International Cuisine / Deli & Sandwiches
- Style: New York–inspired deli with sandwiches influenced by Jewish, Eastern European, and broader American deli traditions
While it’s not a full-service international restaurant in the sense of a sit-down Italian or Indian restaurant, its pastrami, corned beef, Reubens, and other classic deli items are rooted in international food culture and immigration history, which is why it fits well under international cuisine in Atlanta.
If you live or work in Atlanta, especially downtown, Reuben’s generally serves as:
- A quick lunch option on weekdays
- A go-to sandwich shop for large, build-your-own deli sandwiches
- A place that feels familiar if you’re used to delis in cities like New York or Chicago
Typical Location & Access in Atlanta
Reuben’s Deli has been associated with downtown Atlanta, often convenient to:
- Office towers and law firms
- Hotels serving convention traffic
- Attractions like Centennial Olympic Park and the Georgia World Congress Center (walk or quick ride, depending on the exact location)
Because restaurant locations, hours, and contact details can change, it’s wise to:
- 🔍 Search “Reuben’s Deli Atlanta GA” shortly before you go to confirm the current address
- ☎️ Call ahead to check hours, especially if you’re planning a late lunch or visiting on a weekend or holiday
If you’re using MARTA, you’ll generally be looking at stops like Peachtree Center or Five Points when Reuben’s is operating in the downtown core, followed by a short walk.
What’s on the Menu: Classic Deli Meets International Flavors
The menu at Reuben’s Deli usually centers on classic deli sandwiches, with options that appeal to both traditionalists and people who prefer to customize. While specific offerings can vary, you can typically expect:
Core Deli Meats
Common options include:
- Pastrami
- Corned beef
- Turkey (roasted or smoked)
- Ham
- Roast beef
- Salami and other cured meats
These are often served on your choice of bread, with a wide selection of toppings and condiments.
Sandwich Styles
You’ll usually find:
Signature sandwiches
Often including a Reuben (corned beef or pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, dressing, grilled on rye), plus other house specialties.Build-your-own sandwiches
Choose your:- Bread (rye, wheat, white, roll, etc.)
- Meat(s)
- Cheese (Swiss, provolone, American, cheddar, etc.)
- Veggies (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, peppers)
- Condiments (mustard, mayo, Russian/Thousand Island–style dressing, oil & vinegar, etc.)
Hot and cold options
Some sandwiches are grilled or pressed, others served cold, which is useful if you’re grabbing lunch on a steamy Atlanta afternoon.
Sides and Extras
Typical deli-style sides may include:
- Chips
- Pickles
- Potato salad or coleslaw (availability can vary)
- Fountain drinks or bottled beverages
If you’re planning lunch for a group from your office in Midtown or Downtown, these sides can help make it feel more like a full meal without needing a sit-down restaurant.
Price Range and What Locals Expect
Reuben’s Deli is generally viewed as:
- Moderately priced for large, filling sandwiches
- Competitive with other downtown lunch spots like fast-casual chains, but often with larger portions, especially of meat
Because prices can change over time in Atlanta:
- Expect typical downtown lunch pricing, not bargain fast food
- Check a recent menu or phone ahead if you’re ordering for a group or staying on a tight budget
For many Atlanta workers, Reuben’s tends to fall into the “worth it for a substantial sandwich” category rather than a daily budget lunch.
Atmosphere: What It’s Like to Eat There
Most people experience Reuben’s Deli as:
- Casual and quick-serve: Order at the counter, wait for your sandwich, then pick a seat or take it to go.
- Lunchtime focused: Peak hours are often during the weekday lunch rush, especially between roughly 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Downtown vibe: You’re likely to see office workers, legal professionals, and convention attendees grabbing a quick bite.
If you prefer a quieter experience:
- Try to arrive before 11:30 a.m. or after 1:30 p.m.
- Consider takeout if you don’t need to dine in and seating looks tight
When Reuben’s Deli Is Usually Open
Business hours can change, but historically, Reuben’s Deli has often focused on weekday daytime service, such as:
- Open: Monday–Friday around lunchtime
- Limited or no weekend hours
Since hours can shift with downtown traffic patterns, events, and building changes:
- ✅ Always confirm hours same-day, especially on:
- Federal holidays
- Fridays (some downtown spots may close earlier)
- Times when large conventions are not in town
If you’re visiting Atlanta for an event at the Georgia World Congress Center or State Farm Arena, checking hours ahead of time can help you decide between Reuben’s and other nearby options.
How to Order Efficiently (Especially at Lunch Rush)
Atlanta’s downtown lunch rush moves fast. To avoid holding up the line and to get in and out efficiently:
Scan the menu before you reach the register
Many regulars already know what they want; having an idea helps keep things moving.Know your bread, meat, and toppings
Typical sequence when you order:- Bread choice
- Meat (and whether you want it hot or cold, if applicable)
- Cheese
- Toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, etc.)
- Condiments (mustard, mayo, dressing)
Mention special requests clearly
If you want:- Extra pickles
- No cheese
- Toasted vs. untoasted
Say so early in your order.
Consider calling ahead for large orders
If you’re ordering for an office team, calling ahead can reduce wait times and minimize crowding at the counter.
Accessibility and Transportation Tips for Atlanta Visitors
Getting to a downtown deli like Reuben’s is usually straightforward if you:
Use MARTA
Rail:
- Aim for stations like Peachtree Center or Five Points, depending on the current exact address.
- From there, it’s typically a short walk through the central business district.
Bus:
- Several MARTA bus routes serve downtown streets where office buildings and delis cluster.
Check MARTA route maps or station info for the most recent transit details.
Use Rideshare or Driving
Rideshare (Uber, Lyft):
- Ask to be dropped at or near the building Reuben’s is currently located in.
- This is usually easier than parking in a deck just for a sandwich run.
Driving and Parking:
- Expect paid parking decks or metered street parking.
- If you’re already parked for work or an event, it’s often easier to walk over during lunch.
Dietary and Preference Considerations
While Reuben’s Deli is mainly meat-focused, you can often:
- Build a vegetarian sandwich
- Stack cheeses and veggies on your choice of bread.
- Customize condiments
- Ask for sauces on the side or leave them off.
- Adjust portion size
- Many downtown delis offer half-sandwich or lighter options; if that’s important to you, ask what’s available that day.
If you have strict dietary needs (such as avoiding certain ingredients or watching sodium), it’s best to:
- Ask staff what’s in specific items (like dressings or prepared salads)
- Keep your order simple and build-your-own, where you control most components
Reuben’s Deli Compared to Other Atlanta Options
Within the Atlanta international cuisine and deli landscape, Reuben’s fits in as:
- A classic, no-frills deli in the downtown business district
- A practical option if you’re:
- Working in nearby offices
- Attending a downtown conference
- Staying at a hotel in the area and wanting a substantial sandwich rather than another sit-down meal
If you’re exploring deli and sandwich options more broadly across the city, you might also look to areas like Midtown, Buckhead, or Decatur, which host additional sandwich shops, international cafes, and specialty delis. But for a straightforward, downtown-style deli experience, Reuben’s is often on local lists.
Quick Reference: Reuben’s Deli at a Glance
| Feature | What to Expect (Atlanta Context) |
|---|---|
| Category | Restaurants – International Cuisine / Deli & Sandwiches |
| Typical Location | Downtown Atlanta, walkable from many offices & hotels |
| Atmosphere | Casual, counter-service, busy at weekday lunch |
| Menu Focus | Reubens, pastrami, corned beef, turkey, build-your-own sandwiches |
| Price Range | Moderate, typical for downtown lunch; generous portions |
| Best Time to Visit | Before 11:30 a.m. or after 1:30 p.m. on weekdays |
| Good For | Office lunches, convention attendees, substantial grab-and-go meals |
| Key Tip | Check current address and hours before heading over |
For anyone living in or visiting Atlanta, Georgia, Reuben’s Deli is a solid choice when you want a classic deli sandwich with international roots right in the heart of downtown. Verifying the current location and hours before you go will help you plan a smooth, satisfying lunch stop in the city.
