Delectable Delis in Metro Detroit

November 28, 2023
salad from Siegel's Deli with meats, cheese, lettuce, tomato, hard boiled egg, and dressing

Photo courtesy of Siegel's Deli

For generations, Metro Detroit’s Jewish community has contributed mightily to the city’s culinary identity. Much more than mere eateries, these establishments offer a blend of comfort food and history. From mile-high Reubens to matzo ball soup, Detroit boasts some of America’s finest delicatessens. Let’s take a look at some iconic Jewish delis of Metro Detroit…

THE STAGE DELI

6873 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township

When Jack Goldberg opened The Stage Deli in 1962, he did so with the intention of bridging the gap between the corner deli and fine dining. The original Oak Park location was frequented by stars of the day – some of whom would show up following performances at the nearby Northland Playhouse. While today’s West Bloomfield iteration may no longer carry the glitz of those early years, it is nonetheless revered for its traditional Jewish fare (chopped liver, lox, smoked whitefish, kreplach, etc.), full all-day breakfast menu, massive pastrami sandwiches, and chef-crafted dinner entrees.

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STEVE’S DELI

6646 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills

Steve’s is a deli for deli lovers. It’s the kind of place that you know is going to be good as soon as you walk in the door. Steve’s covers all the bases in terms of the traditional fare. Cold cuts, two dozen overstuffed sandwich options, legendary kosher dogs, so many choices for soup, and much more. From the ‘old time favorites’ menu, order from cheese blintzes, turkey off the bone with mashed potatoes, a hot roast beef sandwich, and potato latkes for all of the comfort foods you’ve been missing.

STAR DELI

24555 West 12 Mile Road, Southfield

Star Deli cranks out the classics seven days a week, 365 days a year. 40 years of takeout-only has made this Southfield favorite an obvious choice for those craving corned beef, Swiss, coleslaw, and Russian on rye, which is a number one seller. Along with sandwiches, you can get your matzo ball soup, hot blintz, and old-school rugelach for dessert. You can get everything you want without the wait.

SIEGEL’S DELI

3426 East West Maple Road, Commerce Charter Township

Siegel’s Deli is a traditional Jewish delicatessen with all of the homemade favorites. Co-owner Edison Vushaj tells us, “Siegel’s Deli opened in 1997, and since we’ve had diners consistently praise the exceptional quality and taste of the food. The pastrami, expertly cured and piled high between slices of fresh rye bread, is a standout favorite. The corned beef, tender and flavorful, has patrons coming back for more. Each dish reflects a commitment to using high-quality ingredients, resulting in a symphony of flavors that delight the taste buds. From the crisp pickles to the savory matzo ball soup, every item on the menu is a testament to the staff’s dedication to delivering an authentic and satisfying deli experience. Whether hosting a corporate event, family gathering, or special celebration, Siegel’s caters platters of delectable sandwiches filled with premium meats to carefully crafted salads and sides, the catering offerings showcase the same commitment to quality that has made the deli a local favorite. With attention to detail and a passion for delivering memorable dining experiences, Siegel’s catering brings the authentic flavors of a New York deli directly to your event, ensuring a feast that leaves a lasting impression on guests.”

bowl of chicken noodle soup from siegel's deli with bread and butter
Photo courtesy of Siegel’s Deli

ORIGINAL BREAD BASKET DELI

26052 Greenfield Road, Oak Park

The Original Bread Basket Deli was founded over 50 years ago and has been an Oak Park staple ever since. With no affiliation to the Bread Basket Deli chain, the OBBD takes quality and taste seriously, as all the soups, kreplach, matzo, cheese blintzes, and corned beef and cheese egg rolls are all made fresh in-house. It also has stuck with the same Detroit-based suppliers for items like meat, bread, pickles, and Better Made potato chips. Pick from salads, Bread Basket favorites, and 3 and 4-decker sandwiches while you visit and enjoy every bite. 

DELI PLAZA

18401 Wyoming Avenue, Detroit

Deli Plaza has been serving up freshness for the past 54 years and counting. Sandwich options include the Deli Prize Winner with corned beef, Swiss, and mustard, the Fat Boy Burger with pastrami, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pepper jack cheese, and the Slurp, made with corned beef, coleslaw, and Russian dressing. Another large section of the menu is made up of egg rolls, with flavors like corned beef and Swiss, Philly cheese steak, pastrami, cheeseburger, and the soul roll, which is made with greens, mac, and sweet potato.  

This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on April 2, 2021, and was authored by Aaron Segel.

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