By Melissa Hunter
Assistant Editor
On Thursday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m., Adath Israel will host “Where Harry Met Sally: The Delectable History of the Jewish Deli,” featuring author and food historian, Ted Merwin. For much of the 20th century, the corner Jewish deli was an iconic institution in both Jewish and American life — “a kind of homeland for the soul, with pickles on the side.” As a social space, it often rivaled the synagogue as the primary gathering place for social engagement for the Jewish community. As the deli grew in popularity, it came to be featured in popular culture, including plays, films, TV shows, songs, and even stand-up routines. From John Belushi’s “Samurai Deli” skit on Saturday Night Live, to Rob Reiner’s late-1980s rom-com, “When Harry Met Sally” (in which the deli scene gave us the famous, often-quoted line “I’ll have what she’s having!”), to the table-side banter in the Stage Deli in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” the deli and its fare have been embraced by Jews and non-Jews alike. It stands as a delicious emblem of Jewish culture in America.
According to Manny’s Deli food blog, “Jewish delis have been a beloved part of American food culture for over a century.” But with modern-day diners growing more health-conscious and looking to gourmet food trends and fusion cuisine when choosing where to eat, does the deli have a future? And what, if anything, has taken the place of the deli as a “secular synagogue” for Jews to get together in a non-religious space?
“Despite many traditional delis closing their doors over the years, there are still plenty of reasons why Jewish delis remain relevant in today’s food scene,” the blog states. “Jewish delis are still relevant in today’s food scene because of their authenticity, ability to evoke nostalgia, comfort food offerings, dietary accommodations, and sense of community.”
Merwin’s enlightening lecture at Adath Israel will delve further into the rich cultural heritage of the Jewish deli, exploring its evolution from a humble neighborhood institution to an iconic symbol of Jewish-American identity. This is a unique opportunity to learn, engage, and indulge in the stories behind one of America’s most beloved culinary traditions. From classic dishes like pastrami on rye to the cultural significance of the deli as a social gathering place, this event promises to delight both food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
To learn more or to register, visit Adath Israel’s website.
