The New York Deli News gets rid of those growling stomach blues.
The Belsky family has worked together to create a flourishing business. Photos courtesy of New York Deli News
Everyone has a vivid place from childhood where they spent the most amount of time, growing out of youth and entering a world of opportunity. For Co-Owner Peter Belsky, who is the son of the deli’s owners, many recollections come from one of Denver’s authentic eateries: New York Deli News, located at 7105 E. Hampden Ave.
There is an uncontrollable ebb and flow of family values wrapped around the deli, which opened in July of 1989. Al and Tory Belsky, who are the owners and founders of the deli, moved from the boroughs of Long Island into the urban streets of Denver, bringing with them authentic New York recipes, and a determination to keep them striving.
The couple struggled through the economy’s fluctuations trying to keep some consistency throughout their many attempts at a small business. Starting out with a Pub, the Belskys soon opened an upscale restaurant, The Dove, which almost sent them into bankruptcy when gas prices skyrocketed. By the end of the 80s, the daring duo made their way back on top with the nightclub, Bogart’s. The three-floor club was the best of the decade and held the first ladies’ night. When the pair was able to expand, they sold the nightclub to a business partner and switched their focus to a deli dedicated to making the best sandwiches in town.
“We take pride in our portions; we don’t have a scale or set amount. The meat should dwarf the bread. We don’t fool around with our sandwiches,” said Peter, who has grown up around the deli. The trio works together to strive for consistency and a more-than-satisfying customer experience. “We want people to feel comfortable and at home here. Customers should be walking out with smiles on their faces and returning still grinning.”
With a long line of loyal customers and regulars, the deli would like to reach out to a larger clientele and draw in more people. “I know half of the customers that walk in; I shake a lot of hands. We are always trying to find a niche to pull in the younger crowd. You have to attract who is in the area and pay attention to what they are looking for,” said Peter, who has created a facebook page (click here to see) for the deli, as well as a daily newsletter that is sent out to customers. Every month a lucky facebook friend receives a free meal bursting with flavor and urging them to return for more.
The deli receives truckloads of breads and meats from New York, giving their customers the most authentic Long Island meals out there. Recipes are altered to accommodate Colorado’s high altitude, creating moist and delectable foods. With a strong team of managers, hosts, bussers, waiters, and cooks, the deli is kept tidy and running efficiently.
“We offer something to whatever dietary restrictions and allergies you may have. We have a large menu, which makes it easy for all groups to find something,” said Peter. The menu is full-blown, with an impressive list of appetizers, soups, salads, omelets, sandwiches, entrees, dinners and desserts. On top of the lush dine-in menu is a complete breakfast menu, which helps to produce an incredibly diverse menu.
It is the deli’s New York style sandwiches that are its signature meal. “We strive for authenticity; our rye bread and corn beef sandwiches are traditional and unbeatable,” said Peter, who says he eats at the deli himself five times each week.
For Peter, working with family means dependability, security, and freedom. “My parents really trust my judgment on things, which gives me a lot of room to make changes to better the business,” said Peter, who says he often turns to his parents for their wisdom, and admires the respect they share for one another.
Peter says he anticipates taking over the deli one day and hopes to expand by opening multiple locations. “Right now the business is running smoothly. Once we are at a secure position we will be able to continue to build on our growing deli,” said Peter. This flourishing business seems to mimic a family tree as well. “Hopefully I will be able to continue the tradition and keep the deli intertwined within the family.”
For those who always wanted to become a “regular” and for all of those sandwich lovers out there, New York Deli News is the place that one can indulge. Swing by the deli for lunch, or pamper yourself in the welcoming atmosphere for dinner. For the full menu click here.
