The deli guys

Sam Taweel, owner of Elberih Deli in Boerum Hill, moved to the U.S. from the West Bank 22 years ago. He has seven kids—three are in the U.S. and four live with his wife in the Middle East. Two of his sons work in the store. Ala is 21 and goes to Brooklyn College.

What do you like about working together?
Sam: It’s good. My sons can deal with the customers. I can trust them. Ala: I wanted to help my dad. I didn’t want to do other things.

What don’t you like about it?
Sam: I like all. Ala: The long hours. It cuts into my social life.

Why do you do it?
Ala: Because I am able to help my dad. He doesn’t have anybody else. Sam: I can trust my sons with the store when I leave. Otherwise I would have to close the store and lose pay.

Sam, do you ever think the family business has prevented your kids from a career in something else?
Sam: No, because it’s okay for them to go. My oldest son doesn’t want to work with me. He goes to Touro College. Almost one year ago he stopped working with me.

Ala, do you feel trapped?
Ala: I don’t see myself here the rest of my life, but I’ve liked working with my dad. I am in school studying accounting, and I hope to start a career. I would use my skills to help out at the store, too.

—Allison Steinberg

Elberih Deli, 196 Bergen St between Bond and Nevins Sts, Boerum Hill, Brooklyn (718-875-7416)