I’ll Have What She’s Having: The Jewish Deli
September 2025 – January 2026
Offering a tasty bite into American Jewish immigration history and culture.
Step into the delicious world of the American Jewish deli and discover how food tells the story of immigration, adaptation, and community. Originally presented by the Skirball Cultural Center, I’ll Have What She’s Having: The Jewish Deli explores how Jewish immigrants brought traditions from Central and Eastern Europe, adapted them to American ingredients, and created a cuisine that is now a beloved part of American culture.
Step Inside the Deli
Food of Immigration
Explore how Jewish immigrants brought foods like pickles, knishes, gefilte fish, borscht, and rugelach to New York City. Artifacts such as candlesticks, knives, suitcases, passports, and textiles show how these newcomers carried their hopes, dreams, and foodways with them.
The Food
From sky-high sandwiches to hot matzo ball soup and rich chopped liver on rye, Jewish deli cuisine is a fusion of flavors and traditions. Enjoy colorful food imagery, props, and a glossary of Yiddish terms like nosh, chutzpah, and verklempt.
Mid-Century Heyday
Discover the golden era of delis when New York remained the epicenter, but delis flourished nationwide. View mid-century menus from Carnegie Delicatessen, Lindy’s, and LA favorites like Junior’s and Solley’s, showing how delis became cultural hubs for all.
No Substitutions
Meet the people behind the food. Vintage uniforms, implements, photos, and video interviews highlight deli owners, chefs, and staff. Visitors can share their favorite deli dishes or memories on an interactive order line.
Who’s at the Table?
Delis are more than Jewish culture—they are woven into the broader American landscape. See Levy’s Rye ads, snapshots of political figures at delis, and reflections on how delis reached diverse audiences.
Survivor Communities
For Holocaust Survivors and refugees, delis offered livelihood and community.
Pop Culture on Rye
Explore the deli’s influence on entertainment. Enjoy clips from Curb Your Enthusiasm, Seinfeld, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and films like When Harry Met Sally and At War with the Army.
Shifting Landscapes
Delis have adapted to changing times—health trends, real estate, family challenges, and the pandemic. Discover new Jewish delis embracing Sephardic and Israeli influences, artisanal practices, and innovative approaches to food and business.
Plan Your Visit
Experience a slice of American life.
Visit The Museum
Plan your visit to The FHM for a tasty bite of history!