Pastrami

Photo from
Lina · Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
The story
Pastrami is a highly seasoned, smoked, and cured meat, traditionally prepared from beef brisket. While its exact origins are debated, it is widely believed to have evolved from Romanian Jewish culinary traditions, eventually becoming a staple of Jewish-style deli cuisine in the United States. The process involves a complex curing period with spices such as peppercorns, coriander, and garlic, followed by smoking and steaming to achieve its signature tender texture.
A great version of pastrami is distinguished by a delicate balance between the crusty, spice-heavy exterior and the succulent, melt-in-the-mouth interior. The quality of the brisket cut and the precision of the smoking process are essential to its success.
Regional variations exist globally, often appearing in different forms such as corned beef or being integrated into specialized sandwiches. In modern culinary landscapes, pastrami has gained international acclaim. In Milan, Italy, venues such as Meat Crew (Viale Bligny) and Ratanà have been noted for their offerings. In Prague, Czechia, the establishment Naše Maso has been highlighted by food enthusiasts. Furthermore, in Rome, Italy, MANERO BURGERS has been recognized for its rendition of the dish. These diverse locations demonstrate the dish's versatility and enduring popularity across different gastronomic cultures.
Synthesised by AI from every creator’s review.
Where to eat it
6 places reviewed by YouTube creators.
Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City (1)
Prague (1)
What creators say
Highlights from 5 creator reviews of Pastrami.
An incredible pizza al taglio spot in Rome's Trionfale neighborhood, where gourmet toppings and flawless dough come together. The standout was the Nonna Lina with melted coppa, but nearly every slice impressed. A hidden gem that rivals the best in the city.
Ripiena 2.0 is Max's evolution of the classic Roman stuffed pizza, using semi-whole wheat flour for a more rustic flavor and maintaining incredible crunch even after 20 minutes on the counter. The pastrami, chicken salad, and porchetta and potato are standout specials, and the prices (€20-23/kg for classics and specials) are fair for the quality. I give it a 10/10, same as Gianni al Mattone, because it's a different but equally excellent product.
Ripiena 2.0 · RomalovedA tiny butcher shop with six seats, no reservation, excellent meat and pastrami, great value.
Naše Maso · PraguelovedMeet Crew Milano serves the best hamburger in Milan, plus indulgent chimichangas, ultra crispy fries, chicken nuggets, pastrami, and a mac and cheese cucumber side.
Ratanà is one of the best restaurants in Milan, with incredible dishes like the risotto and pastrami, and a fantastic tasting menu for €70.
Ratanà · Milanoloved





