Sheryll Bellman

Loaded with photos, ads and images, this appreciation of Jewish delis in America from author Bellman (Through the Shopping Glass: A Century of New York Christmas Windows) will get readers ready to nosh. Opening with a history of deli culture and kosher food prep, Bellman takes readers on a tour of some of the nation's most famous delis, highlighting their best loved dishes with copious photos, menus, advertisements, and other ephemera. Diners who don't know seltzer from schmaltz will learn the appeal in historical overviews of hallmarks like chopped liver, Dr. Browns Cel-Ray Soda, egg creams, corned beef, and knishes, as well as a handy list of Yiddish terms that will guarantee confident counter-side manner. Longtime patrons of New York's Barney Greengrass, Carnegie Deli and Katz's; Los Angeles's Canters Deli; or Ann Arbor, Mich.'s Zingermans will enjoy bellying up with Bellman as she recounts the history of each establishment, alongside a handful of signature recipes. Readers interested in recreating classic deli fare will find multiple options for dishes like chopped liver, cheesecake, reubens, and stuffed cabbage, as well as local specialties. Though heavily weighted with New York establishments, Bellman captures the look and feel of Jewish delis across the U.S. while illustrating their enduring popularity.