Katz’s In Woodbridge Is One Of Connecticut’s Best New York-Style Delicatessens

Unless you’re from Woodbridge or the Westville section of New Haven, you’d probably be hard pressed to name a single restaurant in Woodbridge. There are a few eateries—mostly tucked just over the New Haven line—but Woodbridge residents looking to dine out mostly turn up in New Haven, Hamden and Orange. Those who stay close to home are most likely to be found at Katz’s Restaurant & Deli.

Located in a strip mall just over the New Haven line and a stone’s throw from Wilbur Cross exit 59, Katz’s is really an extension of the numerous Jewish delicatessens that used to dot the Westville neighborhood, a few of which are still operating. Katz’s may not be kosher, but it is by general consensus one of Connecticut’s best New York-style delis. Owner Steve Katz’s great food

and friendly staff

have ensured my enthusiastic patronage for many years (even before I bought my first house about a mile away in Westville). When I find myself in the mood to visit Katz’s, it usually turns out that plenty of people have had the same idea.

At Katz’s, as soon as your tuchus hits your seat, a bowl of coleslaw

and a dish of half sour and full sour pickle slices will arrive at the table.

You can nibble a pickle as you peruse Katz’s extensive menu. All the usual suspects are available, like these cheese blintzes served with sour cream and applesauce,

but it’s Katz’s sandwiches that I find irresistible. They’re plenty generous, but what I really appreciate about them is the high quality of their ingredients compared to some famous delis known for giving out truly monstrous portions. On this occasion, I ordered a beef brisket French dip sandwich with French fries, which left me stuffed but happy,

washing them down with a diet Dr. Brown’s cream soda.

My friend ordered a bowl of matzo ball soup (believe it or not, this is a “small”)

and a bulging pastrami and corned beef combo on seeded rye.

My 11-year-old daughter elected a cheeseburger and French fries.

For dessert, the grownups homed in on a slice of cheesecake,

while my daughter had her eye on a black-and-white cookie.

And if she’s really good, maybe someday she’ll find herself on Katz’s Wall of Fame.

Katz’s Restaurant & Deli, 1658 Litchfield Turnpike (Route 69), Woodbridge, 203-389-5301