FLOSSI AND THE KATZ’S
Katz's Delicatessen is one of New York City's most iconic eateries, with a rich history that reflects the cultural and culinary evolution of the city's Lower East Side. Here's a detailed look at its history:
Year Established: 1888
Original Name: Iceland Brothers
Katz's began as a small deli opened by the Iceland brothers on Ludlow Street in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, a hub for Jewish immigrants at the time.
Katz Family Involvement:
In 1903, Willy Katz joined the business, and the name was changed to Iceland & Katz.
By 1910, Willy’s cousin Benny Katz joined, and the business relocated to its current location at 205 East Houston Street, adopting the name Katz’s Delicatessen.
The Lower East Side Connection
The Lower East Side was a vibrant immigrant neighborhood, home to large Jewish, Italian, and Irish communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Katz's served as a cultural hub, offering traditional Eastern European Jewish deli fare, such as pastrami, corned beef, matzo ball soup, and pickles.
World War II and the Famous Slogan
During World War II, Katz’s Delicatessen became known for its slogan, “Send a salami to your boy in the Army.”
This originated as a campaign to support soldiers overseas, with Katz’s shipping salamis to servicemen.
The phrase remains part of Katz’s branding and highlights its historical connection to American wartime efforts.
Cultural and Culinary Legacy
Unique Food Preparation:
Katz’s is renowned for its hand-carved pastrami and corned beef, made using traditional methods that take up to 30 days of curing, ensuring authenticity and flavor.
Kosher-Style, Not Strictly Kosher:
While Katz's serves traditional Jewish deli food, it is not certified kosher and operates on Saturdays.
Landmark Status:
Katz’s iconic neon sign, vintage interior, and communal atmosphere make it a cultural touchstone for both locals and tourists.
Katz’s uses 15,000 lbs. of pastrami, 8,000 lbs. of corned beef. That’s 1.19 million lb. of beef. It costs between $3.17 million and $3.67 million to rear and produce 1,983 steers. Katz’s sells pastrami for $40 a lb.
