Under the same ownership as Dizengoff next door, this feels like the late lamented Bloom’s on a quiet day – not a bustling New York deli. The display of dishes at the counter is less inspiring than the list written on the old-style menu, though there’s plenty for both takeaway and eat-in customers.
You’ll find hot and cold deli sandwiches and hefty portions of the type of Ashkenazi food (chopped liver, chicken soup) that sustained our grandparents. Salt beef and tongue are moist and flavourful, the ‘gourmet’ burger perfect for teenagers. Apart from the great-value food, the table mats feature games and quizzes for children.
The Deli also caters for non-meat eaters, with an Israeli-style breakfast and fish options that include traditional fried haddock. Service was hesitant but pleasant; what’s lacking is enthusiasm – in a real New York deli, the staff talk up the food, telling you to go for the braised beef or schnitzel, suggesting a side order of latkes or lockshen pudding. While neighbouring Dizengoff offers classier Israeli meze and grills, the kids will prefer to eat here – and if you choose the soup and sandwich combo, it’s a bargain.
