Brighton’s Iconic Kosher Businesses Under New Ownership: A Fresh Chapter for Lipman’s and Malek’s
In a move that has delighted the Brighton community, two beloved kosher establishments—Lipman’s Kosher Market and Malek’s Bakery—have been acquired by Naftali “Naf” and Anna Hanau. The couple, who have deep roots in the food industry, are now at the helm of thes iconic businesses located on Monroe Avenue.
For Naf and Anna, this venture is more than just a business chance—it’s a return to their passion for food and community. “People want to be fed by people who are passionate about food,” Naf Hanau shared. The couple’s journey in the culinary world is extensive. Before relocating to Rochester, they founded Grow & Behold Foods, a kosher meat company in New York City, which they successfully ran for 12 years.Their experience also includes participating in community-supported agriculture programs, working on a farm, and being part of a food co-op.
“We feed people,” Naf said simply. “That’s what we do.”
A Homecoming for Naf Hanau
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Naf’s connection to Brighton runs deep. he grew up in the area, attended the Hillel School, and has fond memories of Lipman’s Kosher Market. “Lipman’s was my childhood deli,” he recalled. “I’d walk in, and Aharon and Mike woudl hand me a piece of salami.”
The couple has been managing Malek’s Bakery since January 2024, with the option to purchase it. They officially acquired Lipman’s Kosher Market from Aharon Baruch, who is retiring after decades of service. Baruch will remain during the transition, at least until Passover, ensuring a smooth handover.
Lipman’s Kosher Market: A Legacy of tradition
Lipman’s Kosher Market is more than just a store—it’s a cornerstone of Brighton’s Jewish community. Established in 1919 by Morris Lipman, a World War I veteran, and Benjamin Sanzel, the market originally opened on Hanover Street before moving to Monroe Avenue in 1941. The business has remained in the Lipman family for generations, with Albert Lipman taking over after his father’s death in 1951. Aharon Baruch, who apprenticed at the shop for four years, purchased it in 1993.
Today, Lipman’s is the only standalone kosher butcher between Cleveland and Albany, serving not only Brighton but also delivering meats to Buffalo, Syracuse, and Ithaca. The market specializes in glatt kosher meats, deli sandwiches, soups, and other food products, adhering to the strictest kosher standards.
Malek’s Bakery: A Sweet Tradition
Simultaneously occurring, Malek’s Bakery, a favorite among locals as 1977, continues to thrive under the Hanaus’ stewardship.Known for its dairy-free and kosher-certified baked goods, the bakery has been a staple in Rochester’s culinary scene. The Hanaus’ commitment to quality and tradition ensures that Malek’s will remain a beloved destination for sweet treats and artisanal bread.
A New Era for Brighton’s Kosher Scene
The Hanaus’ acquisition of these two businesses marks a new chapter for Brighton’s kosher community. Their passion for food, combined with their deep respect for tradition, promises to uphold the legacies of both lipman’s and Malek’s while introducing fresh ideas and innovations.
As Naf Hanau put it, “We’re here to feed people—body and soul.”
Key Highlights: Lipman’s Kosher Market and malek’s Bakery
| Business | Founded | Specialty | New Owners |
|————————-|————-|—————————————-|———————-|
| Lipman’s Kosher Market | 1919 | Glatt kosher meats, deli, soups | Naftali and Anna Hanau |
| Malek’s Bakery | 1977 | Dairy-free, kosher-certified baked goods | Naftali and Anna Hanau |
For those eager to experience the flavors of these iconic establishments, visit Lipman’s Kosher Market and Malek’s Bakery on Monroe Avenue. Whether you’re craving a classic deli sandwich or a freshly baked pastry,the Hanaus are ready to welcome you with open arms—and tasty food.
Explore more about Brighton’s kosher dining scene here.
A New Chapter for Lipman’s Kosher Market and Malek’s Bakery: Tradition meets Innovation
In the heart of Brighton, two beloved local institutions—Lipman’s Kosher Market and Malek’s Bakery—are undergoing transformative changes under new ownership. While the new owners are eager to modernize, they are equally committed to preserving the traditions that have made these businesses community staples for decades.
Lipman’s Kosher market: Honoring Legacy While Embracing Change
Since taking over Lipman’s Kosher Market on January 1, Naf Hanau and his team have introduced subtle yet impactful updates. The market has been rearranged to improve customer flow, and a modern point-of-sale system has been installed. meat is now displayed in trays with scannable labels, streamlining the shopping experience.
But Hanau is speedy to emphasize that change is being approached thoughtfully. ”you don’t buy a business and change everything,” he said. “The aim is to find out what its customers like and also to attract new ones.”
One of the most exciting developments is the expansion of in-house prepared foods. By the end of the month, Lipman’s plans to offer a wider variety of lunch options, including hot pastrami sandwiches made with rye bread from malek’s Bakery. Additionally, the market will begin producing its own pastrami, corned beef, and beef bacon. “I’ve done that before,” Hanau said. “I know this stuff. I know how to do it, and I’m really excited to do it in-house.”
Hanau is also thrilled to be working alongside Aharon Baruch, the previous owner, who brings 30 years of experience in the kosher meat business. “The butcher/client relationship is kind of a sacred thing,” hanau said. “Aharon has 30 years of experience with it. That’s been a special thing that I’m very grateful for.”
Malek’s Bakery: A Legacy of Flavour and Community
Just a short distance away, Malek’s Bakery continues to thrive under its new ownership. founded in 1977 by Lea Malek, a Jewish immigrant from Hungary, the bakery has long been a cornerstone of the Brighton community. In 2002, Malek sold the business to Chuck treviso and Don Russ, who have since carried on her legacy of crafting artisanal baked goods.
The bakery’s rye bread, a key ingredient in Lipman’s new pastrami sandwiches, remains a customer favorite. Malek’s commitment to quality and tradition has earned it a loyal following, and its partnership with Lipman’s Kosher Market is a testament to the enduring connections within the local food scene.
What’s Next for Lipman’s and Malek’s?
Both businesses are poised for growth while staying true to their roots. Lipman’s is set to launch online ordering and delivery services, making it easier for customers to access their favorite kosher products.Meanwhile, Malek’s Bakery continues to innovate within its traditional framework, ensuring that its offerings remain relevant to both longtime patrons and new customers.
Key Updates at a Glance
| Business | Changes | Timeline |
|————————|—————————————————————————–|———————–|
| Lipman’s Kosher Market | Expanded in-house prepared foods, online ordering, and delivery services | End of January 2025 |
| Malek’s Bakery | Continued focus on artisanal baked goods, partnership with Lipman’s | Ongoing |
A Community-Centered Approach
The changes at Lipman’s and Malek’s reflect a broader trend in the food industry: balancing innovation with tradition. By listening to their customers and leveraging their expertise, the new owners are ensuring that these businesses remain vibrant parts of the Brighton community.
As Hanau puts it, “I know this stuff. I know how to do it, and I’m really excited to do it in-house.” This enthusiasm, coupled with a deep respect for tradition, promises an exciting future for both Lipman’s Kosher Market and Malek’s Bakery.
For more updates on local businesses and community news, visit Democrat and chronicle.
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What do you think about the changes at Lipman’s and Malek’s? Share your thoughts in the comments below!Malek’s Bakery: A Sweet legacy of rochester’s Jewish Heritage
Nestled in the heart of brighton, New York, Malek’s Bakery has been a cornerstone of the local Jewish community for decades. Originally established by Jon Yaeger, the bakery has undergone several ownership changes, each adding a unique chapter to its rich history. In 2011,it was purchased by Hoang Ngo,a Vietnamese refugee of Chinese heritage,who later sold it in 2022 to the Hillel community Day School,a private Jewish school in Brighton.
In early 2024, the Hanau family took over the bakery’s operations, with an option to purchase the business. since then,they’ve introduced a variety of new offerings,including sandwiches,dips,and savory tarts,alongside traditional favorites like teiglach,honey cake,and round challah. A few tables have also been added, allowing customers to enjoy their treats on-site.
“The response has been great,and that’s what keeps us doing this,” said Naf Hanau,reflecting on the community’s warm reception.Running a kosher bakery is no small feat. “The Jewish community relies on kosher institutions,” Hanau explained. “They are very hard businesses to run. They aren’t extraordinarily lucrative… We don’t want these businesses to disappear. they’re part of Rochester’s Jewish heritage.”
Malek’s Bakery is more than just a place to buy bread and pastries—it’s a cultural institution. Its survival is a testament to the dedication of its owners and the support of the community.
| Key Milestones of Malek’s Bakery |
|————————————–|
| 2011: Purchased by Hoang Ngo |
| 2022: Sold to Hillel Community Day School |
| 2024: Hanau family takes over operations |
| New Offerings: Sandwiches, dips, savory tarts |
For those interested in following the bakery’s journey, Tracy Schuhmacher, the food and drink reporter for the Democrat and Chronicle, provides regular updates.You can reach her at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter, Bluesky, or Instagram as @RahChaChow.
Malek’s Bakery continues to thrive, blending tradition with innovation, and remains a cherished part of Rochester’s Jewish heritage.
The story of Lipman’s Kosher Market and Malek’s Bakery under the new ownership of Naftali and Anna Hanau is a beautiful blend of tradition and innovation. These two iconic Brighton establishments are not just businesses; they are community pillars with deep-rooted histories and loyal followings. The Hanaus’ approach to modernizing while preserving the essence of these institutions is a testament to their respect for the past and their vision for the future.
Lipman’s Kosher Market: A Modern Twist on Tradition
Since taking over Lipman’s Kosher Market in January, the Hanaus have introduced thoughtful updates to enhance the customer experience.From reorganizing the store layout to implementing a modern point-of-sale system, these changes aim to make shopping more efficient without compromising the market’s conventional charm. The introduction of in-house prepared foods, such as pastrami sandwiches made with Malek’s Bakery rye bread, is a nod to the community’s love for classic flavors while offering something fresh and exciting.
The collaboration with aharon Baruch, the previous owner, ensures that the expertise and relationships built over decades remain intact. This partnership highlights the Hanaus’ commitment to honoring the legacy of Lipman’s while steering it toward a shining future.
Malek’s Bakery: A Sweet Legacy Continues
Malek’s Bakery, founded in 1977 by Lea Malek, has long been a beloved destination for artisanal baked goods. Under the stewardship of Chuck Treviso and Don Russ since 2002, the bakery has maintained its reputation for quality and tradition. The Hanaus’ acquisition ensures that this legacy continues, with a focus on innovation within the bakery’s traditional framework. The partnership with Lipman’s Kosher Market, using Malek’s rye bread for their sandwiches, is a perfect example of how these businesses complement each other and strengthen the local kosher dining scene.
A New Chapter for Brighton’s Kosher Community
The Hanaus’ vision for Lipman’s and Malek’s goes beyond just running triumphant businesses. They aim to create a community-centered experience where tradition meets innovation. The introduction of online ordering and delivery services at Lipman’s and the continued focus on artisanal baked goods at malek’s are steps toward making these establishments more accessible while staying true to their roots.
Key Highlights and Updates
Here’s a rapid look at what’s new and what’s next for these iconic businesses:
| Business | changes | Timeline |
|—————————-|—————————————————————————–|———————–|
| Lipman’s Kosher Market | Expanded in-house prepared foods, online ordering, and delivery services | End of January 2025 |
| Malek’s bakery | Continued focus on artisanal baked goods, partnership with Lipman’s | Ongoing |
A Commitment to Community
Naftali hanau’s words, “We’re here to feed peopel—body and soul,” encapsulate the essence of their mission. The changes at Lipman’s and Malek’s are not just about modernizing operations but about fostering a sense of community and connection. By preserving the traditions that have made these businesses beloved while introducing fresh ideas, the Hanaus are ensuring that Lipman’s Kosher Market and Malek’s Bakery remain cherished destinations for generations to come.
For those eager to experience the flavors of these iconic establishments, a visit to Lipman’s Kosher Market and Malek’s Bakery on Monroe Avenue is a must. Whether you’re craving a classic deli sandwich or a freshly baked pastry, the Hanaus are ready to welcome you with open arms—and tasty food.
To explore more about Brighton’s kosher dining scene, check out this link.
