The Stage Deli has been a landmark in Manhattan for over 70 years, located on 7th avenue just a few blocks from Carnegie Hall. This restaurant has become a favorite for all walks of life. Russian immigrant Max Asnas opened the deli in 1937, located on Broadway and 48th Street. Mr. Asnas stocked the deli with food from his native land - blintzes, salamis, smoked fish and thick loaves of Russian rye bread. The deli became the place to be for anyone who was anyone since actors often strolled in between rehearsals – it became a main place for the movers and shakers of the city.
In 1943, Mr. Asnas moved the deli to its current location on 7th avenue between 53rd and 54th streets where columnist Walter Winchell would gather information for the next day’s paper and radio reports that reached an audience of 55 million. With the mentioning of the Stage Deli, the popularity continually began to grow.
Asnas retired and sold the deli sometime in the late 60's and it wasn’t brought back to life until 1978 when another group came in and restored the glory of the deli to what it is today. The deli not only contains some of the best food you’ll ever have but has pictures of all the celebrities that have visited throughout the years posted on the walls. Most of the sandwiches are named after celebrities who have visited such as the Tiger Woods Reuben or the Ben Stiller Hot Open Roast Beef. Beware when ordering from the menu though, nothing will be custom made to order, and as always, use mustard and not ketchup.