Save the Deli

Save the Deli chronicles journalist David Sax's journey across North America and Europe to document the state of Jewish delicatessens. Sax visits delis in major cities and small towns, investigating their history, operations, and struggles to survive in the modern era. The book combines food journalism with cultural history, examining how delis evolved from Eastern European immigrant food traditions into American institutions. Through interviews with owners, workers, and patrons, Sax explores the challenges of maintaining authentic Jewish food preparation methods while adapting to changing tastes and economics. Sax's investigation takes him from famous New York establishments to unexpected deli outposts in places like Salt Lake City and London. He documents the ingredients, techniques, and business realities that define the Jewish deli world. The narrative raises questions about cultural preservation, assimilation, and the role of food traditions in maintaining community identity. Through the lens of the Jewish deli, the book examines broader themes about immigrant contributions to American cuisine and the challenge of sustaining heritage businesses in a fast-changing restaurant industry.

Readers appreciate Sax's passion for Jewish delis and his detailed research into their history and cultural significance. Many note his engaging storytelling and rich descriptions of deli foods, particularly in New York and Montreal. The book resonates with those who have personal connections to traditional Jewish delis. Readers cite redundancy in the writing, with some sections feeling repetitive. Several mention the book becomes less focused in later chapters. A number of reviews note Sax's opinions can come across as biased against non-traditional delis. "Great food writing but loses steam halfway through" is a common sentiment in reviews. Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (500+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (50+ reviews) LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (40+ ratings) Representative review: "A nostalgic and informative journey through deli culture, though it could have been tighter edited" - Goodreads reviewer

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🥪 Traditional Jewish delis in North America have declined from thousands in the 1930s to only about 150 today. 🥖 Author David Sax spent three years traveling across multiple countries, visiting over 200 delis to research this book. 🥪 The term "delicatessen" comes from the Latin "delicatus," meaning delicious or luxurious, and was first used in 18th century Germany. 🥖 Montreal-style smoked meat differs from New York pastrami primarily because it's cured with more cracked peppercorns and less sugar. 🥪 Many of America's most famous delis, including Katz's and Carnegie Deli, were founded by Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe who arrived between 1880 and 1920.