Tucson’s Newest Deli: A Taste of new York in the Desert Southwest
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Tucson, Arizona is getting a flavorful new addition to it’s culinary scene: Kneller’s delicatessen & Appetizing. this popular pop-up shop, which has delighted Tucson residents for the past three months at St. Philip’s Plaza, is preparing to open a permanent brick-and-mortar location next spring.
Owner Jeremy Kneller-Hernandez is bringing a taste of his family’s East Coast traditions to the Sonoran Desert.”It’s recipes from my family and just really kind of sharing that vibe we had in the kitchen at big parties,” he explains. “I want this place to feel like walking into a time machine.”
Kneller-Hernandez handles everything himself, from preparation to cooking, infusing his own unique style into classic dishes. His grandma’s Jewish brisket recipe is a standout, alongside popular items like his signature knish and his expertly smoked pastrami. He even makes his own bagels, a detail that has delighted many customers.
“The thing I miss the most was just in the morning when I was with my grandpa hitting up a delicatessen for a little ham and cheese or ham, egg and cheese or a little knish at the corner spot and that nostalgia meant a lot to me.”
For those unfamiliar with this classic Jewish treat, Kneller-Hernandez describes his knish perfectly: “Creamy mashed potatoes, a little thyme seasoning, some love, cheese and caramelized onion. You get a little pickle and Dijon on the side.”
The response from Tucson residents has been overwhelmingly positive. Eashan Rao, a customer from New Jersey, raved about the pastrami and egg bagel sandwich, saying, “I’m from new Jersey and so this really reminds me of home. I’ve actually been looking for a Jewish deli and a place with good bagels.”
“I don’t no, I just liked the hotdog better,”
said young David Ramirez, highlighting the appeal of even the simpler menu items.
Kneller-Hernandez is clearly passionate about his project. “Just feeling the love. I wanna give back as much as I can.I don’t want to let anyone down,” he shares.
beyond the upcoming brick-and-mortar location, Kneller’s also offers catering services. Rao sums up the sentiment of many Tucsonians: “I’m really excited for this to be a mainstay in Tucson cause this is one of the few things which I feel we really needed around here.”
In the meantime, you can find Kneller’s Delicatessen & Appetizing at St. Philip’s Plaza,Friday thru Sunday,from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For a sneak peek at the menu, check out their Instagram page.
Tucson’s Kneller’s Deli: Bringing the Big Apple’s Flavors to the Southwest
Tucson has recently seen an exciting addition to its culinary scene: Kneller’s delicatessen & Appetizing, a pop-up deli bringing classic New York Jewish deli flavors to the heart of the desert. we sat down with food writer and culinary historian Dr. Rachel lewis to discuss Kneller’s offerings, the cultural significance of Jewish delis, and why this new venture is already making a big impact in Tucson.
New York Deli traditions Arrive in Tucson
Senior editor: Dr. Lewis, Kneller’s delicatessen & Appetizing is making waves in Tucson, offering a taste of New York City deli culture. Can you share your initial thoughts on this new addition to the city’s food scene?
Dr. Lewis: It’s truly exciting to see Kneller’s bringing authentic New York Jewish deli traditions to Tucson. These delis are more than just restaurants – they’re cultural institutions, steeped in history and familial recipes. The fact that Kneller’s is drawing on family recipes and aiming to create that nostalgic, comforting atmosphere is especially special.
Signature Dishes and the Importance of Homemade
Senior Editor: What are some of the standout dishes at Kneller’s that make it unique?
Dr. Lewis: Kneller’s seems to be focusing on classic deli staples done exceptionally well. Their homemade bagels are a huge draw – bagels are notoriously challenging to make, so the fact that they’re making them from scratch speaks to their commitment to authenticity. Their grandma’s brisket recipe is also generating a lot of buzz, as are the knishes, which are a true delicacy.
Senior Editor: Why is the emphasis on homemade so important when it comes to creating an authentic deli experience?
Dr. Lewis: Making things from scratch allows for complete control over the quality and flavour of the ingredients. It’s about using traditional methods and recipes passed down through generations, which imbues the food with authenticity and nostalgia. When you bite into a homemade knish or bagel, you’re tasting not just the food, but the story and the history behind it.
The Cultural Significance of Jewish Delis
Senior Editor: Beyond the food itself, what is the broader cultural significance of Jewish delis, both in New York and now, in Tucson?
Dr. Lewis: Jewish delis are an integral part of Jewish American culture and history. They were often gathering places for communities, providing a sense of belonging and tradition.They offered comfort food that reminded people of their homes and families. Seeing that same sense of community emerging around Kneller’s in Tucson is truly heartwarming.
Kneller’s Impact on Tucson’s Food Scene
Senior Editor: How do you see Kneller’s impacting tucson’s already vibrant food scene?
Dr.Lewis: I think kneller’s is filling a definite void in Tucson – there was a need for a place serving authentic Jewish deli fare.It’s bringing something new and exciting to the city, while also tapping into a worldwide love for comfort food and family recipes. It’s a testament to the power of food to connect people and build community.
Senior Editor: dr. Lewis, thank you so much for sharing your insights into this exciting new addition to Tucson’s culinary landscape.
Dr. Lewis: My pleasure! I encourage everyone to visit Kneller’s and experience the warmth and authenticity for themselves.
