Pastrami on Rye: An Overstuffed History of the Jewish Deli

This is an unusual history of the Jewish Deli in America. In addition to its mouth-watering, cholesterol laden food, delis were a place to meet your friends, business associates and make a Jewish connection.The New York delis, like Katz's in Manhattan - think of the movie "When Harry Met Sally." and the fake orgasm scene, represent the best of the old time delis and the sense of belonging to a group. Forget the synagogue, the deli surpassed it as meeting place. The author contends that delis flourished in the interwar era, when successful Jews found a place to reunite with their heritage. Ted Merwin believes that the deli is experiencing a resurgence and developing a cult status. That may be true, but it's hard to find a good deli in most American cities and never, ever in small, rural towns! This book is about New York and is well researched.

Incredible detail and reporting that may be too much for many. But overall a fascinating look at New York and other delis past and present. Many great stories and for me at least a lot of nostalgia. Interesting social commentary on the role of the deli in Jewish life and culture. And how the deli changed in style and approach over the years and has diminished in numbers. If you find some parts too dense or drawn out just skip or skim over them. You will still get a lot of information and story telling in a very readable and clear writing style. Great photos. Warning: May make you hunger for a corned beef or pastrami on rye, but assuredly without mayonnaise.

Professor Merwin treats the reader to a strong double play: An in depth sociological analysis of the Jewish deli as a clue to understanding the American immigrant experience; and a delightful nostalgic romp replete with anecdotal memories and little known facts that are fun to read. You can smell gthe pastrami, corned beef and sour pickles on every page. A must read!

A must read for anyone that grew up with Kosher Deli's. If you grew up in NYC or Sullivan Co. New York, a must read. Book starts off slow, but then you can feel the taste of deli in your mouth.

Bought for a gift. I'll read one day myself. The reviews were excellent that I read. A book to learn and enjoy the journey.. and get hungry for! Lol .. but its true!

Very intelligent social and historical analysis of the rise and fall of the Jewish deli in the context of changes in society and the Jewish Community. The book is well written. The deli is viewed as a secular synagogue to some in its hay day.

A terrific book explaining my favorite food

I typically enjoy food history books. I learned a lot here. It moved at a nice pace. My only issue is hoe reading made me hungry for brisket and pastrami:)

I enjoyed this book but, as I bought it on Kindle I want to know why on the last page it said I was at 49% of the book and there is only one page of the notes (up to note 8) whereas the notes go up to 52. Since the paper version only cost 3 euro more, I wish I had bought that. Where are the notes???