50 Facts About Delicatessen

The Origins and Spread of Delicatessens

Delicatessens, or delis, have a rich history that spans continents and centuries. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about their origins and spread.

1. Origin: Delicatessens originated in Germany during the 18th century. The term "delicatessen" is derived from the German word "delikatessen," meaning "delicious things to eat" or "dainty foods".
2. Spread to the US: Delicatessens spread to the United States in the mid-19th century, primarily through European immigrants. They became particularly popular among Ashkenazi Jews, who introduced their own culinary traditions to American culture.
3. Definition: Traditionally, a delicatessen is a grocery store that sells a selection of fine, exotic, or foreign prepared foods. Today, many large retail stores like supermarkets have deli sections.
4. Etymology: The word "delicatessen" is a German loanword that first appeared in English in the late 19th century. It is the plural form of "Delikatesse," which was borrowed from French "délicatesse" and Italian "delicatezza".
5. European Delicatessens: In Europe, delicatessens are known for high-quality and expensive foods. In German-speaking countries, they are often referred to as "Feinkost" (fine food) and sold in shops called "Feinkostläden" (delicacy stores).

Iconic Delis and Their Cultural Significance

New York City is home to some of the most iconic delis in the world. These establishments have become cultural landmarks and are known for their unique offerings.

6. New York City Delis: New York City is famous for its delis, which have woven themselves into the culinary fabric of the nation's largest city. The first Jewish deli, Katz’s Delicatessen, opened in 1888.
7. Iconic Delis: Katz’s Delicatessen is undoubtedly the most iconic deli in NYC, having withstood the Great Depression, two pandemics, and 9/11. It has been a New York institution since 1888.
8. Pastrami Queen: Another iconic deli is Pastrami Queen, which has been an Upper East Side mainstay since 1998. It is known for its juicy pastrami slices and fresh rye bread.
9. BK Bagel & Deli: BK Bagel & Deli has multiple locations in NYC, offering a variety of bagels and deli items. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
10. Number of Delis: In 1959, there were approximately 15,000 delis in New York City alone.

The Influence of German and Jewish Immigrants

The influence of German and Jewish immigrants on American delis is profound. They brought with them culinary traditions that have become staples in delis across the country.

11. German Influence: The word "deli" comes from the German word "delikatessen," which means "delicious things to eat." This reflects the German influence on American culinary culture.
12. First US Deli: The first deli in the United States was opened in 1880 by a German immigrant named Sussman Volk. Volk’s Delicatessen was located in New York City and was known for its cured meats and sausages.
13. Reuben Sandwich: The Reuben sandwich, a classic deli favorite made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, was invented at a deli in New York City in the early 1900s.
14. Global Presence: Delis are not just an American phenomenon; they can be found all over the world. Countries like Canada, Australia, and Israel have their own versions of delis, known for their delicious sandwiches and other lunchtime favorites.
15. Cultural Significance: Delis often serve as cultural hubs, providing a space where people can gather and experience traditional cuisine. They offer a unique dining experience that is both authentic and communal.

The Decline and Preservation of Jewish Delis

Despite their cultural significance, Jewish delis have been declining in number. However, efforts are being made to preserve these important cultural institutions.

16. Authenticity: The authenticity of deli fare is crucial to maintaining cultural traditions. Jewish delis, for example, are known for their corned beef, pastrami, and matzo ball soup, which are staples of Jewish cuisine.
17. Decline of Jewish Delis: Despite their cultural significance, Jewish delis have been declining in number. In the 1930s, there were about 2,500 kosher delis in New York City's five boroughs, but today that number is down to about two dozen.
18. Reasons for Decline: The decline of Jewish delis can be attributed to several factors, including assimilation, health-food trends, and competition from chain restaurants. The most popular items at a Jewish deli, such as corned beef sandwiches, often do not turn a profit due to the time and money required to prepare them.
19. Profit Margins: Jewish delis typically make a 10% profit on corned beef sandwiches, which is significantly lower than the profit margins from other menu items like matzo ball soup or French fries.
20. Cultural Preservation: The preservation of Jewish delis is crucial for maintaining cultural heritage. These establishments provide a snapshot of Jewish culture and offer a unique dining experience that is both traditional and communal.

The Role of Delis in Community and Culinary Innovation

Delis are more than just places to eat; they serve as community centers and sites of culinary innovation.

21. Community Role: Jewish delis often serve as community centers, hosting events like bris ceremonies and providing cradle-to-grave service to their patrons. They offer a space where people can gather and experience their cultural heritage.
22. Historical Significance: Delis have a rich history that reflects the immigration patterns and cultural influences of various communities. They have been a part of the culinary fabric of cities like New York for over a century.
23. Immigrant Influence: European immigrants, particularly Ashkenazi Jews, played a significant role in popularizing delis in the United States. They brought their culinary traditions with them, which eventually became an integral part of American cuisine.
24. Menu Items: Delis are known for their variety of menu items, including fresh-sliced cold cuts and cheeses, made-to-order sandwiches, green salads, pasta salads, potato salads, chicken salads, tuna salads, and more.
25. Beverages: In addition to prepared foods, delis often offer a variety of beverages such as pre-packaged soft drinks, coffee, tea, milk, and sometimes even beer or wine.

Delis as Cultural and Culinary Institutions

Delis have become cultural and culinary institutions, preserving traditional food methods and fostering community gatherings.

26. Small Items: Delis also sell small items like potato chips, candy, mints, newspapers, and other convenience goods.
27. Historical Timeline: The history of delis in the United States can be traced back to the late 19th century when European immigrants first introduced these establishments. Over time, they evolved to become an integral part of American culinary culture.
28. Iconic Deli Names: Some iconic deli names include Katz’s Delicatessen, Pastrami Queen, and Zabar’s. These establishments have become synonymous with high-quality deli fare and rich culinary history.
29. Culinary Evolution: Delis have evolved over the years to include modern menu items like vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options while still maintaining traditional items like pastrami and corned beef.
30. Cultural Exchange: Delis have facilitated cultural exchange by introducing various cuisines to different communities. For example, Jewish delis introduced Eastern European cuisine to American palates, while Italian delis introduced Mediterranean flavors.

The Importance of Traditional Food Methods

Delis often preserve traditional food methods and ingredients, ensuring that cultural heritage is maintained.

31. Food Traditions: Delis often preserve traditional food methods and ingredients. For instance, Jewish delis continue to use traditional methods for curing meats like pastrami and corned beef.
32. Community Gatherings: Delis serve as gathering places for communities. They host events and provide a space where people can come together to enjoy traditional cuisine and socialize.
33. Culinary Innovation: Despite their traditional roots, delis have also been sites of culinary innovation. The Reuben sandwich, for example, is a classic deli invention that has become a staple in American cuisine.
34. Global Influence: Delis have influenced culinary traditions globally. In countries like Canada and Australia, delis offer a unique blend of international flavors and local ingredients.
35. Food Culture: Delis are integral to food culture, providing a space where people can experience a variety of cuisines. They reflect the diversity and multiculturalism of urban centers like New York City.

Efforts to Preserve Deli History

Efforts are being made to preserve the history and cultural significance of delis, ensuring that future generations can enjoy these culinary institutions.

36. Historical Preservation: Efforts are being made to preserve the history of delis. Books like "Save The Deli: In Search of Perfect Pastrami, Crusty Rye, and the Heart of Jewish Delicatessen" document the decline and preservation of Jewish delis.
37. Author David Sax: Author David Sax has been instrumental in highlighting the importance of delis through his book. He emphasizes the need to preserve these cultural institutions to maintain traditional cuisine and community spaces.
38. Culinary Schools: Delis often serve as culinary schools for aspiring chefs. They provide hands-on training in preparing traditional dishes like pastrami and corned beef.
39. Food Trivia: Delis have a wealth of food trivia associated with them. For example, the average salary for a lox slicer at Zabar’s is $60,000 a year, reflecting the high skill level required in deli work.
40. American Consumption: Americans consume over 5 billion pounds of deli meats annually, including about 800 million pounds of bologna.

The Variety and Cultural Identity of Delis

Delis offer a wide variety of menu items and play a significant role in preserving cultural identity.

41. Menu Variety: Delis offer a wide variety of menu items, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. This includes vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options alongside traditional deli fare.
42. Cultural Identity: Delis are often closely tied to cultural identity. Jewish delis, for instance, provide a space where people can experience and preserve their cultural heritage through traditional cuisine.
43. Community Events: Delis host various community events, such as bris ceremonies and holiday celebrations. These events strengthen community bonds and provide a sense of belonging among patrons.
44. Food Festivals: Delis often participate in food festivals, showcasing their culinary expertise and contributing to the vibrant food culture of urban centers.
45. Culinary Tours: Culinary tours frequently include visits to delis, allowing tourists to experience the rich culinary history and diversity of cities like New York.

Delis in Popular Culture and Media

Delis have inspired numerous quotes, poems, and media representations, reflecting their significance in popular culture.

46. Food Quotes: Delis have inspired numerous food quotes, reflecting their significance in culinary culture. For example, "If all the Jewish delis closed tomorrow—God forbid—Cheesecake Factory, T.G.I. Fridays, Subway aren’t going to start making matzo ball soup".
47. Food Poems: Delis have also inspired food poems, celebrating their role in preserving culinary traditions and community culture. These poems often highlight the emotional connection people have with deli food.
48. Free Magazines: Many delis offer free magazines, providing patrons with information on food trends, recipes, and culinary techniques. This adds to the overall dining experience and enhances customer engagement.
49. Food Festivals & Events: Delis participate in various food festivals and events, showcasing their culinary expertise and contributing to the vibrant food culture of urban centers. These events attract both locals and tourists, promoting the deli as a cultural institution.
50. Culinary Schools & Tours: Delis often serve as culinary schools and tour destinations, providing hands-on training in preparing traditional dishes and offering a unique culinary experience for tourists. This helps preserve the culinary heritage associated with delis and promotes their cultural significance.

Delicatessens: A Culinary and Cultural Treasure

Delicatessens, or delis, are more than just places to grab a sandwich. They’re cultural hubs with a rich history that began in 18th-century Germany. These spots became popular in the U.S. thanks to European immigrants, especially Ashkenazi Jews. Iconic delis like Katz’s and Pastrami Queen in New York City have become culinary landmarks. Delis offer a variety of foods, from classic Reuben sandwiches to modern vegan options. Despite a decline in numbers, especially Jewish delis, they remain vital for preserving culinary traditions and community bonds. Delis also serve as gathering places and cultural preservers, hosting events and offering a taste of heritage. Whether you're in NYC or abroad, delis continue to be beloved for their delicious, authentic fare and their role in bringing people together.