The History of the American Jewish Deli


In New York, Baltimore, and other American cities, the delicatessen was the lifeblood and the linchpin of the Jewish community. The "soul food" and atmosphere it dished up became a quintessential part of American culture for Jews and non-Jews alike. But as Jews moved into the suburban middle class, the deli lost its bite, giving way to other ethnic restaurants and cuisines. Can the deli be resurrected? Join us as Ted Merwin, assistant professor of Religion and Judaic Studies at Dickinson College, will explain how the deli, which originated in Germany and Eastern Europe, developed in this country into a neighborhood institution on par with the synagogue.

Date:

November 21, 2012

Time:

3:30 PM – 4:45 PM

College:

The City College of New York

Address:

Convent Avenue & 138th Street
160 Convent Avenue

Building:

NAC

Room:

6/316

Phone:

212-650-6388

Website:

http://www1.ccny.cuny.edu/prospective/humanities/rifkind/index.cfm

Admission:

Free