7 Unexpected Secrets Of Fillmore Deli & Backroom: The NYC Spot Blending Pastrami With Korean Fried Chicken
The culinary landscape of New York City's Upper East Side (UES) has been dramatically redefined in the last year with the arrival of the Fillmore Deli & Backroom. This unique establishment, located at 1668 3rd Avenue, is not just another neighborhood deli; it is a masterclass in duality, offering a classic American delicatessen experience in the front and a vibrant, Korean-inspired cocktail bar and kitchen hidden in the rear. This innovative dual-concept has quickly cemented its status as a must-visit destination for those seeking both a comforting, traditional sandwich and a cutting-edge late-night experience, making it one of the freshest and most talked-about openings of late 2024 and early 2025.
Operating under one roof but with two distinct personalities, Fillmore Deli & Backroom—or simply Fillmore Deli and the separate, hidden Fillmore Kitchen—has captivated Manhattan regulars. The front space serves up iconic New York deli staples, while the "backroom" transports patrons to an entirely different, intimate world. This fusion is the brainchild of an owner whose personal story is as compelling as the menu, blending a lifelong passion for food with a surprising past career in technology.
The Unexpected Origin Story of Owner Kyle Jang
The success of the Fillmore Deli & Backroom is deeply rooted in the personal history and lifelong dream of its owner, Kyle Jang. His journey to becoming a prominent figure in the Upper East Side's dining scene is far from the typical culinary school narrative.
- Name: Kyle Jang
- Current Role: Owner of Fillmore Deli & Backroom (including Fillmore Kitchen)
- Location: 1668 3rd Avenue, Upper East Side, New York, NY 10128
- Former Career: Jang spent years working in the demanding IT industry during the 1990s.
- Career Shift Catalyst: He lost his job during the turbulent tech industry shifts of the 1990s. This event, rather than being a setback, propelled him toward pursuing his true passion.
- Vision: Jang has stated that opening the restaurant was a dream he harbored his "whole life," a testament to the dedication poured into the establishment's unique concept and warm, community-focused atmosphere.
- Community Ties: His dedication is evident in the strong community feedback, with regulars often referring to him affectionately as "brother," highlighting the personal, welcoming connection he fosters with his clientele.
The Dual-Concept Menu: Where Deli Meets Global Fusion
The true genius of the Fillmore Deli & Backroom lies in its ability to serve two completely different, yet equally high-quality, menus. Patrons can enjoy the best of both worlds, moving seamlessly from a classic lunchtime grab-and-go spot to a sophisticated, late-night dining experience. This dual-concept strategy ensures topical authority across several key culinary niches: traditional American deli, Korean fusion, and craft cocktails.
The Fillmore Deli: Classic New York Staples
The front-facing Fillmore Deli is a tribute to the iconic New York delicatessen, focusing on hearty portions, high-quality meats, and classic sandwich combinations. The menu is extensive, appealing to breakfast, lunch, and dinner crowds alike. The deli items themselves are major LSI keywords, driving local search traffic.
- Signature Sandwiches: The menu features a must-try, half-pound Hand-Carved Pastrami sandwich, often cited as being on par with the city's most famous delis. Other favorites include the savory Rib Eye Steak Sandwich, the complex Fillmore Combo, and the quintessential late-night item, the Chopped Cheese.
- Breakfast & Wraps: Early risers flock for the classic Breakfast Platter and the inventive Hendrix Breakfast Wrap.
- Hoagies & Classics: The Italian Hoagie and Roast Beef Hoagie are popular choices, alongside the classic Reuben and the spicy Chipotle Steak Sandwich.
- The Essential Side: Every sandwich is best paired with a perfectly crunchy, Full Sour Kosher Pickle.
Fillmore Kitchen: The Backroom's Korean Speakeasy Vibe
Behind the bustling deli counter, a subtle transition leads to the Fillmore Kitchen, the establishment's "backroom" concept. This space transforms the venue into a completely different environment, trading the bright lights of the deli for a dimly lit, intimate cocktail bar and Korean-focused restaurant. While not a traditional speakeasy, it captures the hidden, exclusive atmosphere that New Yorkers crave.
The decor of the Fillmore Kitchen is intentionally designed to evoke a sense of cool, retro nostalgia. It features fine decor, a collection of vinyl records, and an old-school DJ booth, allowing patrons to control the music and contribute to the laid-back, lounge atmosphere. This unique blend of aesthetics and gastronomy is what truly sets the venue apart on the Upper East Side.
Korean Fusion and Signature Soju Cocktails
The menu in the backroom pivots sharply, focusing heavily on modern Korean cuisine and innovative cocktail pairings. The star dish is unequivocally the Korean Fried Chicken (KFC), praised for its perfect crispness and flavor.
The beverage program is equally adventurous, centered around soju-based cocktails. These drinks are not merely standard mixers; they are crafted to complement the spicy and savory Korean dishes. The cocktail list includes highly creative infusions, such as the unique goguma kimchi cocktail, which cleverly incorporates the flavors of sweet potato and fermented cabbage into a refreshing alcoholic beverage. The combination of classic American deli, Korean Fried Chicken, and soju cocktails provides a comprehensive and compelling culinary narrative.
Why Fillmore Deli & Backroom is the New UES Hotspot
The Fillmore Deli & Backroom’s success is a case study in modern restaurant innovation, proving that a venue can successfully cater to multiple demographics and intentions. For the neighborhood, it provides a reliable source for high-quality, affordable deli classics. For the adventurous diner, the Fillmore Kitchen offers a fresh, fusion-based experience that is hard to find elsewhere in the area.
The attention to detail in the food, from the Thinly sliced sirloin steak in the cheesesteaks to the Grilled Chicken and Grilled Turkey Sandwich options, ensures a loyal following. By blending the comfort of a classic American deli with the excitement of a modern Korean cocktail bar, Kyle Jang has not just opened a restaurant; he has created a dynamic cultural hub. The deli is a welcoming spot for a quick lunch, while the backroom is the perfect venue for a late-night gathering, enjoying craft cocktails and the vibrant energy of a curated DJ booth playlist. This dual identity makes the Fillmore Deli & Backroom a true reflection of New York City's ever-evolving and diverse food scene, solidifying its place as a must-visit spot in the UES for 2025 and beyond.
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