Katz’s Deli Is No. 1 — and It’s Making Big Coin Too

Image by Getty Images
Katz’s is the best Jewish deli in the land, according to Condé Nast Traveler. Next on the list: classic Canter’s in LA, kosher Ben’s Best in Queens and San Francisco upstart Wise Sons.
Katz’s might also be the world’s richest deli. The New York Times this week revealed the family-owned restaurant has sold two neighboring properties and air rights for about $17 million, allowing a developer to build an 11-story condominium next door.
Katz’s is one of the only oldtime businesses on its Lower East Side block to survive the condo onslaught; the sale will help ensure its future, co-owner Jake Dell told the Times.
Michael Kaminer is a contributing editor at the Forward.
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.
That’s why I’m paying it Forward, by matching $36,000 of reader gifts. It’s an investment in the Forward’s newsroom, to continue telling the American Jewish story with truth and independence.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
