Feldman’s Deli: Bringing New York Jewish Deli Traditions to Salt Lake City
Discover Feldman’s Deli, a beloved Jewish eatery infusing Salt Lake City with iconic New York deli flavors, warm hospitality, and live entertainment.
Feldman’s Deli: A New York Tradition Finds Home in Utah
Nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City, Feldman’s Deli introduces locals and visitors to the comforting flavors of a classic New York-style Jewish deli. Owned and operated by Michael and Janet Feldman, this establishment has become a hallmark of community and culinary authenticity, transforming Utah’s food scene with its dedication to tradition, quality, and hospitality.
From oversized half-pound sandwiches and scratch-made classics to the lively atmosphere and genuine warmth, Feldman’s Deli is more than just a restaurant—it is an experience, a gathering place, and a bridge between cultures.
Origins: The Feldmans’ Journey from New Jersey to Utah
Michael Feldman, a chemist by training, and his wife Janet, a baker from a long lineage of culinary artisans, relocated from New Jersey to Utah for the 2002 Winter Olympics. While captivated by Utah’s scenery and lifestyle, the Feldmans found themselves yearning for the comfort food of their East Coast upbringing. Realizing there was no local place to find classic Jewish deli fare, they resolved to open their own deli—bringing New York’s iconic flavors to Salt Lake City.
- Michael’s expertise: Set up drug-testing labs for Olympic athletes.
- Janet’s background: Culinary heritage from a family of bakers; expertise in traditional Jewish recipes.
- Opening year: Feldman’s Deli established in 2012.
The Feldmans’ vision was clear: to offer an authentic Jewish deli experience, anchored in family traditions and highest-quality ingredients.
Atmosphere and Community Vibe
Walking into Feldman’s Deli, guests are greeted by an inviting, bustling ambiance reminiscent of New York’s classic delis. The dining room features sturdy wooden tables and chairs, antler-laden light fixtures, and a bright open layout evoking both comfort and ski-chalet charm.
- Counter service: Fronts the kitchen, welcoming walk-in guests.
- Full service: Most guests dine in the lively main room, engaged in conversation and enjoying their meals.
- Regulars and newcomers: Frequented by a diverse clientele—locals, ex-East Coasters, and deli aficionados.
- Owner presence: Michael Feldman personally greets guests and circulates the dining area for conversation.
The restaurant’s understated decor and friendly staff create a unique sense of community, making Feldman’s Deli stand out as a local hub and a destination for comfort food.
Menu Highlights: Authentic Jewish Deli Fare
Feldman’s Deli is respected for its succinct and focused menu, filled with iconic deli favorites prepared with care and tradition. Below are the key highlights:
Signature Sandwiches
- Pastrami on Rye: A half-pound of thinly sliced, well-steamed New York pastrami, served on fresh local rye bread tailored to Feldman’s specifications.
- Sloppy Joe: Local favorite featuring layers of roast beef, turkey, pastrami, coleslaw, and Russian dressing.
- Reuben: Classic combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and dressing grilled on rye bread.
All sandwiches showcase fresh, locally baked rye bread developed in collaboration with Stone Ground Bakery to balance the weight and moisture of loaded fillings.
House-Made Specials
- Matzo Ball Soup: Traditional comfort soup with soft, fluffy matzo balls in rich chicken broth.
- Stuffed Cabbage (Golumpki): Tender cabbage leaves filled and simmered in savory sauce, made from scratch on site.
- Pierogi: Eastern European dumplings, prepared with classic fillings.
- Brisket: Savory, slow-cooked brisket offered as specials or sandwich fillings.
Starters & Sides
- Potato Pancakes: Served with applesauce or sour cream.
- Knish: Onion and potato-filled pastry, popular starter.
- Gefilte Fish: Traditional fish dish accompanied by beet horseradish—a true acquired taste.
- Pickles and Pickled Beets: Imported from New York for authenticity.
- Health Salad: Bright and tangy cabbage and vegetable salad.
Bagels and Bakery
Janet Feldman crafts New York-style bagels, boiled then baked to achieve a crisp exterior and fluffiness inside. Only a limited batch is made daily—between two and three dozen—ensuring freshness and maintaining exclusivity.
- Bagel varieties: Classic options (plain, sesame, poppy, etc.) with traditional “shmears.”
- New York cheesecake: Authentic dessert shipped in from the East Coast.
Imported Ingredients and Local Partnerships
- Meats and desserts: Sourced from a New York deli for authenticity.
- Pickles and mustard: Imported specialty items, not available locally.
- Rye bread: Created by Stone Ground Bakery, specifically for Feldman’s signature oversized sandwiches.
- Homemade specialties: Golumpki, brisket, and other items crafted on site with traditional recipes.
Simple Yet Focused Selection
The menu is intentionally kept succinct, prioritizing quality and tradition over quantity. Feldman’s Deli takes pride in perfecting a select range of offerings, making each item exceptional and memorable.
Live Entertainment and Social Events
Feldman’s Deli stands out for more than its food—it is also a venue for culture and community events. Every Friday and Saturday evening, diners can enjoy live music performances, enhancing the classic deli ambiance with vibrant local entertainment.
- Live music: Regular performances on weekends, featuring local artists.
- Community events: Gatherings, themed nights, and social occasions foster a welcoming environment.
Customer Experience and Reviews
Feldman’s Deli enjoys a loyal following, with customers hailing its authentic food and inviting atmosphere. Reviews frequently praise the quality of the half-pound sandwiches, the delicious pastrami, and the welcoming service.
- “The focus is on half-pound sandwiches, and they are superb.”
- “With such gloriously guilt-inducing dishes, I’m glad the Feldmans decided to call Utah their home.”
- “The Feldman Sloppy Joe is amazing. Easily in my top 3 sandwich of all time, and probably the yummiest thing I’ve had this year.”
Regulars and first-timers alike find Feldman’s Deli a place worth revisiting, making it a fixture of Salt Lake City’s culinary community.
Practical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 2005 East 2700 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84109 |
| Phone | (801) 906-0369 |
| Website | feldmansdeli.com |
| Operating Hours | Lunch: Tues–Sat 11AM–3PM; Dinner: Thurs–Sat 5:30PM–8:30PM |
| Reservation Policy | Walk-ins welcome; groups encouraged to call ahead |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What makes Feldman’s Deli unique in Salt Lake City?
A: Feldman’s Deli brings authentic New York Jewish deli traditions to Utah, featuring signature sandwiches, imported ingredients, and homemade specialties. Its community-focused atmosphere and live entertainment further enhance the experience.
Q: Are Feldman’s bagels made daily?
A: Yes, genuine New York-style bagels are boiled and baked fresh each morning, with limited quantities to preserve quality.
Q: Is Feldman’s Deli suitable for groups or special occasions?
A: Absolutely. The welcoming environment, large tables, and live entertainment make Feldman’s Deli ideal for gatherings and events. Groups are encouraged to call ahead for seating.
Q: Do they offer vegetarian options?
A: Yes, Feldman’s menu includes vegetarian starters and sides such as potato pancakes, knishes, and health salads. However, the primary focus is on traditional deli meats and sandwiches.
Q: Can I get Feldman’s specialties for takeout?
A: Yes, Feldman’s Deli provides takeout services for its full menu, including deli sandwiches, bakery items, and sides.
Conclusion: Why Feldman’s Deli Matters
Feldman’s Deli stands as a testament to tradition, community, and culinary excellence in Salt Lake City. Michael and Janet Feldman’s personal story of bringing treasured family recipes and East Coast flavor to Utah has resonated widely, creating a destination for authentic Jewish comfort food and warm social engagement. Whether you crave a classic pastrami sandwich, seek the joy of fluffy bagels, or simply want to experience the lively ambiance, Feldman’s Deli remains a cherished local institution.
- Authentic recipes: Honoring New York Jewish deli tradition.
- Community gathering: Friendly, bustling, and deeply rooted in local life.
- Culinary legacy: Homemade specialties, imported ingredients, and artisanal baking.
- Entertainment: Live music events for a truly vibrant atmosphere.
For anyone seeking a genuine taste of New York deli culture—or a simple place to feel at home—Feldman’s Deli should be at the top of the list.
