No, Katz's Delicatessen, a renowned establishment in New York City, has never been genuinely kosher; it operates as a "kosher style" delicatessen.
Understanding "Kosher Style"
The term "kosher style" indicates that a restaurant or food establishment serves dishes traditionally found in Jewish cuisine, such as pastrami, corned beef, and knishes, but does not adhere to the strict Jewish dietary laws (kashrut). This means that while the food might resemble traditional kosher fare, the ingredients, preparation methods, and cross-contamination rules required for a truly kosher certification are not followed.
For an establishment to be considered genuinely kosher, it must meet rigorous standards, including:
- Using only kosher-certified ingredients.
- Separate preparation areas and utensils for meat and dairy, and often pareve items.
- Specific slaughtering and processing methods for meat.
- Continuous rabbinical supervision (mashgiach) to ensure adherence to kashrut laws.
Katz's, located at 205 East Houston Street, on the southwest corner of Houston and Ludlow Streets on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, is celebrated for its classic deli experience and iconic sandwiches, which are deeply rooted in the Jewish culinary tradition but are not prepared under kosher supervision.
What's the Difference: Kosher vs. Kosher Style?
To clarify the distinction, consider the key differences:
| Feature | Truly Kosher Deli | "Kosher Style" Deli (e.g., Katz's) |
|---|---|---|
| Dietary Laws | Strictly adheres to kashrut (Jewish dietary laws) | Serves traditional Jewish deli food but does NOT adhere to kashrut |
| Supervision | Requires ongoing rabbinical supervision (mashgiach) | No rabbinical supervision for kosher certification |
| Ingredients | All ingredients must be kosher-certified | Ingredients may or may not be kosher-certified |
| Meat & Dairy | Strict separation of meat and dairy products | Meat and dairy may be served together (e.g., cheese on a pastrami sandwich, if offered) |
| Target Audience | Observant Jewish community and those seeking certified kosher food | Broader audience seeking traditional deli experience, regardless of religious dietary needs |
Therefore, while Katz's Delicatessen embodies the spirit and flavors of a traditional Jewish deli, it has always been "kosher style" rather than officially kosher.
