The Yiddish Book Center's

Wexler Oral History Project

A growing collection of in-depth interviews with people of all ages and backgrounds, whose stories about the legacy and changing nature of Yiddish language and culture offer a rich and complex chronicle of Jewish identity.

“More than Just a Restaurant”: Regular and Famous Customers of the 2nd Ave. Deli

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Jack Lebewohl, owner of 2nd Ave Deli in New York City, considers the role of food in Jewish community and culture. He considers his deli more than a restaurant, but a center of culture.

This is an excerpt from an oral history with Jack Lebewohl.

This excerpt is in English.

This interview is part of the Yiddish and the Arts: musicians, actors, and artists series.

Other video highlights from this oral history

How My Father Being Blessed By The Rebbe When He was Drafted

2 min 14 sec

"Jewish Soul Food" The Food and the Feeling of The 2nd Avenue Deli in New York City

1 min 31 sec

Early Years of the Deli: Jack Lebewohl Describes the Original 2nd Ave Deli

1 min 12 sec

The Jewish Broadway: Description of New York's 2nd Ave

1 min 37 sec

Jack Lebewohl Remembers His Brother and Founder of the 2nd Avenue Deli, Abe Lebewohl

4 min 10 sec

What Do I Like To Eat?: Jack Lebewohl on His Deli Favorites

59 sec

The Molly Picon Room

52 sec

More information about this oral history excerpt

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