Northeast Philadelphia's last Jewish deli shuts down after over 60 years, most Jews in area left
Several customers said that they’ll miss Stein, but they also bemoaned the fact there aren’t many Jewish food options left.
After running his family deli for several decades, Steve Stein, 83, says his aching legs convinced him to close the business. However, the closure stems from more than just age. Northeast Philadelphia, where Steve's father Mike started the family business over 60 years ago, has transformed dramatically. Once a hub of Jewish life, the neighborhood now lacks most of its Jewish establishments, including Famous Deli and Restaurant.
The deli's closure marks the loss of the last Jewish deli in the area. But, the news of the closure has brought an outpouring of affection from longtime customers. Steve expressed gratitude for their support, saying, "I knew I was liked. I didn't know I was loved." Despite the emotional response, customers lament the loss of Jewish food options and the dwindling Jewish presence in the neighborhood.
Some attribute the deli's closure to the migration of Jewish families to the suburbs and the unwillingness of businesses to be passed down in families due to economic factors. Steve's son Lee, 57, hopes to eventually continue the family business in the suburbs, but he plans for it to be more substantial, including a bakery and a sit-down restaurant, pricing accordingly.
Steve, however, believes his son's new venture won't be as affordable as Famous. As the deli officially closes, Steve reflects on his long career and the impact of the neighborhood's changing demographics on the local Jewish community.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
