The Jewish Delis We Said Goodbye To In 2018
Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
By Lior Zaltzman December 28, 2018
(JTA) With offerings like the classic pastrami or corned beef sandwich and rich matzah ball soup, the deli has long provided our nation with a uniquely Jewish-American take on comfort food. In 2018, we said goodbye to a great number of Jewish delis, that, sadly, closed their doors and their kitchens.
Most notably for New Yorkers, Ben’s Best Deli in Rego Park, Queens closed down after 73 years of serving warm and comforting kosher Jewish deli food.
While the Jewish deli is an American invention, popularized by Jewish immigrants in New York, delis overseas are also closing. In 2018, London said goodbye to Gabi’s Deli, which closed after over 50 years in operation.
My Jewish Learning posted a video compilation of the shuttered delis.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
