Why Is Carnegie Deli Closing? 5 Sandwiches To Try Before Famous NYC Restaurant Shutters

The Carnegie Deli, a beloved New York City culinary institution, will be shuttering by the end of the year. Owner Marian Harper Levine told her employees of her decision Friday, the New York Post reported.

Centrally located in midtown Manhattan at 7th Ave. and 55th St., the deli has become a cultural landmark and has long been an attraction for New Yorkers and tourists alike since first opening its hallowed glass doors in 1937.

Known for its larger-than-life Jewish deli sandwiches, the popular eatery was consuming too many facets of Levine's life for her to keep it open.

“At this stage in my life, the early mornings to late nights have taken a toll, along with my sleepless nights and grueling hours that come with operating a restaurant business,” stated according to the New York Post.

Levine’s family has owned the restaurant since 1976. While the Manhattan location will close, Levine said she still plans on selling the products wholesale. The deli franchise also has branches in Las Vegas and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, ABC News reported.

For those lamenting the news, there are still a few months before it closes up shop. Here are five of its classic sandwiches to try before the end of the year.

1. The Woody Allen – A veritable tower of corned beef and pastrami topped with bread slices.
2. Bagelicious – For the lox and bagel lover: Novie salmon, lettuce, onion, capers, tomato, cream cheese on a jumbo toasted bagel.
3. Barry’s Delight – Not for the faint of heart … a triple decker turkey sandwich with tongue, corned beef and served with the signature cole slaw and Russian dressing.
4. Nosh, Nosh Nanette – Thanksgiving arrives early with this sandwich: Hot turkey, cranberry sauce, gravy and choice of potato.
5. Jeffery P’s Tatalah – Go old school with this sandwich: Turkey, corned beef with Swiss cheese on pumpernickel bread.

The Carnegie Deli's complete menu can be found here.