Northeast Philadelphia's last Jewish deli shuts down after over 60 years, most Jews in area left

Steve Stein's Famous Deli and Restaurant, the last Jewish deli in Northeast Philadelphia, has closed after over 60 years. Owner Steve Stein, 83, cited his age and the changing demographics of the neighborhood, which has seen a significant decline in its Jewish population and establishments. The deli, which moved several times as Jewish families relocated, experienced an outpouring of support from longtime customers in its final weeks, with Stein noting, "I knew I was liked. I didn't know I was loved."

• Customers expressed sadness over the closure, lamenting the loss of affordable Jewish food options and the fading Jewish presence in the area.
• Lee Stein, Steve's 57-year-old son, plans to open a downsized version of the family business in the suburbs, focusing on deli and prepared foods.
• The younger Stein indicated that landlord issues, including an unaddressed leaking roof, contributed to the decision to close the current location.
• Steve Stein is looking forward to retirement and spending more time with his family, though he will miss his customers, whom he considers "like family."