Northampton Jewish deli that opened to fanfare 5 months ago will close
A Jewish deli in Northampton that opened in July this year will close for good on Dec. 14.
Lichter & Levin Delicatessen at 1 Market St. opened on July 9 to great fanfare after being featured on MassLive, NEPM, the Daily Hampshire Gazette and the Boston Globe. The restaurant serves Jewish deli classics such as matzah ball soup, corned beef sandwiches and pastrami sandwiches.
The restaurant made an announcement Friday on Facebook about its imminent closure, citing its lack of a "financial runway" in order to keep operating.
"As much as we wish we could continue, the reality is that operating a restaurant is incredibly challenging," the post reads. "Without the financial runway needed to keep moving forward, we have been faced with the difficult decision to close."
The idea of opening a Jewish deli in Northampton began in 2018. Emily Lichter and Ben Levin would often joke about starting their own place, citing the lack of Jewish delis in the Pioneer Valley. They had discussions about of what it would look like or what it would be called. In July, those discussions became reality when the deli opened its doors. Lichter and Levin would become co-owners of the restaurant along with Matt Wool and Alex Hanley.
"We are endlessly grateful to everyone who supported us — whether by walking through our doors, sharing a meal, spreading the word, or simply believing in what we were trying to build," the post reads. "Bringing Lichter & Levin Delicatessen to life has been one of the most meaningful experiences of our lives, and that is entirely because of you."
Commenters expressed despair that the deli would soon be closing.
"I'm so sorry," one commenter wrote. "You put your hearts into this, and unfortunately had to deal with some incredible challenges that you couldn't have anticipated. Hold onto your dream: if it's close to your heart, then maybe the answer isn't 'no' but 'not now.'"
"This makes me so sad; you guys were such a wonderful addition to the community and I love the food!" another wrote.
A third commenter spoke about the difficulties of running a restaurant.
"Running a restaurant isn't easy and the pay back isn't worth it. It's grueling. I was in it! It's not for everyone. And customers these days are not the nicest. Sorry for your loss of dreams hopes and wishes. Up and onward!"
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