The New York Deli and Coffee Shop Collection

Collection

Identifier: MS 0875

Staff Only

Finding aid note: Forms part of the Houston Jewish History Archive. Stored offsite at the Library Service Center and require 24-hour notice for retrieval. Please contact the Woodson Research Center at 713-348-2586 or woodson@rice.edu for more information.

Scope and Contents

The collection contains two news clippings about The New York Deli and Coffee Shop, copies of three different menus, a colorful card from a grateful 5th-grade class at Beth Yeshurun, and the business card of Michael Saghian, one of the co-owners. The materials are in good condition and range in date from 2002 to 2005. Researchers interested in local Houston businesses, Kosher businesses, or hubs of the Houston Jewish community would find this collection helpful.

Dates

Creation: 2002 - 2005

Conditions Governing Access

This material is open for research.

Stored offsite at the Library Service Center and require 24-hour notice for retrieval. Please contact the Woodson Research Center at 713-348-2586 or woodson@rice.edu for more information.

Conditions Governing Use

Permission to publish material from The New York Deli and Coffee Shop collection must be obtained from the Woodson Research Center, Fondren Library.

The Woodson Research Center use policy is that researchers assume sole responsibility for any infringement of privacy, literary rights, copyrights, or other rights arising from their use of the archival materials. In addition to any restrictions placed by donors, certain kinds of archival materials are restricted for the life of the creator plus 50 years. These materials include, but are not limited to, student grades, transcripts, and any job applications or recommendations.

Biographical / Historical

The New York Deli and Coffee Shop has been serving authentic, New York-style bagels and deli meals to several generations of the Houston community for almost 40 years. The bakery opened on October 14, 1975, and the restaurant opened in May of 1981. Located as 9720 Hillcroft in Houston, the New York Deli and Coffee Shop has become a hub for social activity in Meyerland.

Eugene “Chick” Kornhaber, became a bagel baker in New York after the end of WWII. In 1967, Eugene moved to Philadelphia and opened Brooklyn Bagels with his brother Bernie, and their wives, Leyla and Joyce. In 1975, Eugene, Leyla, and their son, Jay, opened New York Bagels in Houston, and his brother-in-law, Ed, and sister, Robyn, came to join them soon after. In 1981, the family opened the deli portion of their business, continuing a tradition of delicious food and a commitment to the community. Michael Saghian, of Houston Catering Concepts later replaced Jay as co-owner.

Extent

0.25 Linear Feet (1 box)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

The New York Deli and Coffee Shop collection preserves a glimpse of the titular influential local community nexus. The kosher bagel shop has been passed down through three generations of Kornhaber family and has made its mark on the local populace with its friendly atmosphere and commitment to community service.