Katz’s Delicatessen, a New York City institution synonymous with sky-high pastrami sandwiches, pickle barrels, and that unforgettable line from “When Harry Met Sally,” holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals and tourists alike. But when exactly did this culinary landmark first open its doors? The answer, like a perfectly marbled slice of pastrami, is layered with history and a touch of delightful complexity.
The Humble Beginnings: 1888 and the Iceland Brothers
The story of Katz’s Deli begins not with a Katz, but with the Iceland brothers. In 1888, the Iceland brothers established a small delicatessen on Ludlow Street in New York’s Lower East Side. This area was, at the time, the epicenter of Jewish immigrant life in America, a bustling melting pot of cultures and cuisines. The delicatessen served as a vital community hub, offering familiar tastes and a comforting sense of home to newcomers.
The Lower East Side during the late 19th century was a vibrant, albeit often challenging, environment. Immigrants flocked to the neighborhood seeking opportunity and a better life, bringing with them their traditions, languages, and, of course, their culinary heritage. The Iceland brothers recognized the need for a place where these immigrants could find the foods they craved and connect with others who shared their cultural background.
From Iceland Brothers to Katz’s: A Name Change and a New Era
While the Iceland brothers laid the foundation, the Katz family ultimately gave the deli its enduring name and cemented its place in culinary history. In 1903, Willy Katz joined the Iceland brothers in the business. This marked a turning point for the delicatessen. A few years later, in 1910, Willy Katz brought in his cousin, Benny Katz, as a partner. With the arrival of Benny, the delicatessen officially became known as Katz’s Delicatessen.
The decision to rename the deli reflected the growing influence and dedication of the Katz family. They weren’t just business partners; they were passionate about providing high-quality food and creating a welcoming atmosphere for their customers. This commitment to excellence would become a defining characteristic of Katz’s Delicatessen and contribute significantly to its long-term success.
The Move to Houston Street: Finding a Permanent Home
As Katz’s Delicatessen grew in popularity, the need for a larger and more accessible location became apparent. In 1917, a pivotal moment occurred: Katz’s moved to its current location at 205 East Houston Street. This move proved to be a stroke of genius, solidifying Katz’s position as a Lower East Side landmark.
The new location on Houston Street offered more space, allowing Katz’s to expand its menu and accommodate a larger clientele. The neighborhood itself was evolving, but it remained a vibrant and diverse community, attracting both residents and visitors eager to experience the authentic flavors of New York.
The Importance of Location: Houston Street and the Lower East Side
The Lower East Side has always been more than just a location for Katz’s; it’s an integral part of its identity. The neighborhood’s history, its immigrant roots, and its unique character are all woven into the fabric of Katz’s Delicatessen. Even as the Lower East Side has undergone significant changes over the years, Katz’s has remained a constant, a reminder of the neighborhood’s rich past and a symbol of its enduring spirit.
“Send a Salami to Your Boy in the Army”: Katz’s and World War II
Katz’s Delicatessen’s history isn’t just about food; it’s also intertwined with significant historical events. During World War II, Katz’s played a patriotic role with its iconic slogan: “Send a Salami to Your Boy in the Army.” This clever marketing campaign resonated deeply with Americans and became a powerful symbol of support for the troops overseas.
The slogan tapped into a deep well of emotion and patriotism. It offered a tangible way for families and loved ones to show their support for the soldiers fighting abroad. The idea of sending a salami – a taste of home – to a loved one serving in the military was both comforting and heartwarming.
Beyond Salami: Supporting the Troops and Boosting Morale
The “Send a Salami to Your Boy in the Army” campaign was more than just a marketing ploy; it was a genuine effort to support the troops and boost morale. Katz’s actively participated in the war effort, providing food and supplies to soldiers and their families. This commitment to service further endeared Katz’s to the American public and solidified its reputation as a beloved institution.
The “When Harry Met Sally” Effect: Pop Culture and Enduring Fame
While Katz’s was already a well-established and respected delicatessen, its appearance in the 1989 film “When Harry Met Sally” catapulted it to international fame. The scene, featuring Meg Ryan’s unforgettable (and simulated) orgasm while enjoying a pastrami sandwich, became an instant classic and forever linked Katz’s with popular culture.
The “When Harry Met Sally” scene was a game-changer for Katz’s. Suddenly, the deli was on the radar of people all over the world. Tourists flocked to Katz’s to see the iconic table where the scene was filmed and to experience the legendary pastrami sandwich for themselves. The movie transformed Katz’s from a local institution into a global phenomenon.
“I’ll Have What She’s Having”: A Quote That Defined an Era
The line “I’ll have what she’s having,” delivered by director Rob Reiner’s mother in the “When Harry Met Sally” scene, became one of the most quoted lines in cinematic history. It perfectly captured the humor and awkwardness of the moment and solidified Katz’s place in pop culture lore.
Today, a sign hangs above the table where the scene was filmed, proudly proclaiming “Hope you have what she had!” It serves as a constant reminder of the movie’s enduring legacy and its impact on Katz’s Delicatessen.
Katz’s Today: A Timeless Tradition
Despite the passage of time and the ever-changing landscape of New York City, Katz’s Delicatessen remains remarkably unchanged. It continues to serve up its signature pastrami, corned beef, and other classic deli fare using the same time-honored recipes and techniques that have made it famous.
The ambiance of Katz’s is also a key part of its appeal. The bustling atmosphere, the surly-but-lovable countermen, and the walls adorned with photos of celebrities and dignitaries all contribute to a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Preserving the Legacy: Family Ownership and Continued Excellence
Katz’s Delicatessen has remained a family-owned and operated business for generations. This continuity of ownership has been crucial to preserving the deli’s traditions and maintaining its commitment to quality. The Katz family understands the importance of staying true to its roots while also adapting to the changing needs of its customers.
Katz’s continues to attract a diverse clientele, from lifelong New Yorkers to tourists from around the globe. People come to Katz’s not just for the food, but for the experience – to be a part of something special, something that has stood the test of time.
The Recipe for Success: Quality, Tradition, and a Little Bit of Chutzpah
Katz’s Delicatessen’s enduring success can be attributed to a combination of factors: the unwavering commitment to quality ingredients, the adherence to traditional recipes and preparation methods, and a healthy dose of New York chutzpah.
The pastrami at Katz’s, for example, is cured in-house using a secret blend of spices and then smoked to perfection. The corned beef is brined for weeks, resulting in a tender and flavorful product. And the pickles, served from a large barrel, are crisp, tangy, and the perfect accompaniment to any sandwich.
More Than Just a Deli: A Cultural Icon
Katz’s Delicatessen is more than just a deli; it’s a cultural icon, a symbol of New York City’s rich history and its enduring immigrant spirit. It’s a place where people from all walks of life can come together to share a meal and experience a taste of the past.
So, to answer the original question: Katz’s Delicatessen opened its doors, albeit under a different name, in 1888. It moved to its current location in 1917. But the real story is much richer than just a date. It’s a story of family, tradition, perseverance, and, of course, really good food. It’s a story that continues to unfold with every perfectly sliced pastrami sandwich and every satisfied customer who walks through its doors. The history of Katz’s is as delicious as its pastrami, and it is a testament to the enduring appeal of a truly great New York institution.
Ultimately, Katz’s Delicatessen is a testament to the power of food to connect people, preserve traditions, and create lasting memories. It’s a place where the past is celebrated, the present is savored, and the future is filled with the promise of another delicious sandwich.
When exactly did Katz’s Delicatessen first open its doors in New York City?
Katz’s Delicatessen, a true New York City institution, officially opened its doors in 1888. While its roots extend slightly earlier with the Iceland Brothers establishing a deli in 1888 at the same location, it was under the ownership of the Katz family and their partner Willy Leibowitz that the establishment solidified its name and reputation. This is the date generally accepted and celebrated as the beginning of Katz’s Delicatessen as we know it today.
Therefore, while the location had earlier beginnings, the year 1888 marks the definitive start of Katz’s as a landmark and cultural touchstone. It’s from this year that the iconic pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, the boisterous atmosphere, and the historical significance of Katz’s have grown to the beloved status it holds today. It’s a date etched in the culinary history of New York City.
Who were the original founders of what would become Katz’s Delicatessen?
The earliest roots of what evolved into Katz’s Delicatessen can be traced back to the Iceland Brothers. They established a small deli in 1888 at the location on Houston Street in the Lower East Side. This initial venture set the stage for the iconic deli that would soon follow, establishing the location as a place to grab a bite.
However, it wasn’t until the arrival of the Katz family and their partner Willy Leibowitz that the deli truly took on the name and identity it’s known for today. They joined the venture, and ultimately, the name changed to Katz’s Delicatessen. Thus, while the Iceland Brothers initiated the business at that location, the Katz family and Leibowitz are considered the founders responsible for its enduring legacy and renowned brand.
Where was Katz’s Delicatessen originally located in New York City?
Katz’s Delicatessen has always been intrinsically linked to the Lower East Side of Manhattan. From its very beginnings in 1888, the deli has been situated on Houston Street, a bustling thoroughfare that has historically been a hub for immigrants and a center of Jewish culture. The location was key to its initial success and cultural impact.
Specifically, Katz’s is located at 205 East Houston Street, between Ludlow and Orchard Streets. This specific location has remained the same throughout its long history, solidifying its place in the neighborhood and becoming a landmark destination for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic New York deli experience. It has only moved once, across the street, during a construction project for the subway.
What makes Katz’s Delicatessen so famous and iconic?
Katz’s Delicatessen’s fame stems from a combination of factors, primarily its commitment to serving high-quality, traditionally prepared deli meats. The pastrami, corned beef, and other specialties are meticulously cured and smoked using time-honored methods, resulting in exceptionally flavorful and tender sandwiches. The sheer size of the sandwiches also contributes to the experience, often requiring two hands and a hearty appetite to conquer.
Beyond the food, Katz’s has cultivated a unique and memorable atmosphere. The bustling, often chaotic, environment, the ticket system, and the shouts of the countermen all contribute to an authentic New York experience. Its role in popular culture, particularly its appearance in the movie “When Harry Met Sally…”, has also cemented its place in the collective consciousness, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and a beloved institution for locals.
Has Katz’s Delicatessen ever expanded beyond its original location?
For the vast majority of its history, Katz’s Delicatessen remained exclusively at its original location on Houston Street in New York City. This commitment to staying in its historic neighborhood helped solidify its identity and maintain its unique character. For many years, the idea of expanding seemed almost sacrilegious to the brand and its loyal customers.
However, in recent years, Katz’s has cautiously expanded with a few select locations outside of its original Houston Street home. These expansions have been carefully considered to maintain the quality and atmosphere that make Katz’s so special, seeking to replicate the original experience while adapting to the new locations. This measured growth signals a desire to share the Katz’s experience with a wider audience while still honoring its rich history.
What is the “Send a Salami to Your Boy in the Army” campaign associated with Katz’s?
The “Send a Salami to Your Boy in the Army” campaign was a significant part of Katz’s Delicatessen’s history, particularly during World War II. As many young men were serving overseas, Katz’s launched this marketing initiative to allow families and loved ones to send a taste of home to their sons and husbands fighting for the country. It was a way to provide comfort and connection during a difficult time.
The slogan became incredibly popular, and Katz’s shipped thousands of salamis to soldiers stationed across the globe. The campaign not only provided a tangible morale boost to the troops but also helped solidify Katz’s reputation as a patriotic and community-minded establishment. The phrase remains a well-known part of Katz’s legacy, a testament to its connection to American history and its role in supporting the war effort.
What famous movie scene was filmed at Katz’s Delicatessen?
Katz’s Delicatessen is famously known as the setting for one of the most iconic scenes in cinematic history: the fake orgasm scene from the 1989 romantic comedy “When Harry Met Sally…”. This scene, featuring Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal, is instantly recognizable and has contributed significantly to Katz’s popularity and its enduring cultural significance.
The table where the scene was filmed is now marked with a sign that reads, “Where Harry met Sally… hope you have what she had!” This ensures that visitors can relive the moment and appreciate Katz’s role in this classic film. The scene helped propel Katz’s into the international spotlight, making it a must-visit location for movie fans and tourists alike, further solidifying its status as a New York City landmark.