I've been working at Katz's Deli since I was 7. I hope my kids will join the family business.

Jake Dell, the current owner of Katz's Delicatessen in New York City, has had a lifelong connection to the iconic deli. Dell began working at Katz's at the age of seven, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, father, and uncle, who took over the business in 1988, 100 years after its founding. Despite initially planning to become a doctor, Dell found himself struggling with the decision to continue working at the family business.

After a year of working at Katz's between college and medical school, Dell realized that if he did not take over the business, it could be sold or demolished, erasing a piece of New York City's history. Dell completed an MBA program while working at Katz's, which eventually led to his formal involvement in the business in 2009. Today, Katz's operates as a 24-hour deli with various departments including a warehouse, smokehouse, catering, and events business.

Dell's son and daughter, aged five and three respectively, are now present in the deli, spending breakfast, dinner, and weekends with him. Dell hopes his children will eventually take over the business, but he emphasizes that it should be their decision, not a forced obligation.