You are learning ordering at a busy deli: you will read the scene it happens in, learn 10 words and phrases, take apart the pattern behind them (ordering with confidence (i'll have / can i get / give me)), hear them in a conversation, rehearse them, and finish by saying one thing out loud to be graded.
Katz's Delicatessen, Lower East Side, peak lunch rush
Katz's Delicatessen has been on the Lower East Side since 1888. It's one of the most famous delis in the world. The sign outside says 'Send a salami to your boy in the Army.' The movie When Harry Met Sally was filmed here. It's legendary.
I went on a Saturday afternoon. It was packed. When you walk in, they give you a ticket. Don't lose it -- there's a fifty-dollar charge if you do. I went to the counter and waited. The men behind the counter work fast. They slice meat by hand.
When it was my turn, the guy said, 'What'll it be?' I said, 'I'll have the pastrami on rye.' He said, 'Mustard?' I said, 'Yes, extra mustard.' He cut a thick slice and gave me a taste. It melted in my mouth. Then he piled the pastrami high on the bread.
I grabbed a Dr. Brown's cream soda and found a table. The sandwich was enormous -- at least a pound of meat. I couldn't finish it. But every bite was incredible. I asked for a to-go container for the rest. The best deli sandwich I've ever had. If you visit New York, Katz's is a must.