Finally, after a year of waiting, it’s back: January 14, National Pastrami Day. Pastrami was brought to the United States in a wave of Jewish immigration in the second half of the 19th century. The word pastrami is actually derived from the Romanian words “a pastra” which means, “to preserve.” The classic pastrami on rye sandwich that we know and love today was born in 1888 New York at the Sussman Volk Deli.
And where better to celebrate this sacred holiday than in Brookline? We’ve rounded up a few local spots where you can get your pastrami fix for the day.
Michael’s Deli
256 Harvard Street
A Coolidge Corner favorite, Michael’s Deli takes pastrami very seriously. They have some specials prepared for the celebration including traditional pastrami glazed with balsamic vinegar and fig reduction and baked, and black pastrami topped with cheddar cheese, hot peppers, and honey mustard. And of course, they’ll be debuting a special pastrami knish.
To top off the day, the deli will donate ten percent of all proceeds to the Greg Hill Foundation all day on Monday, January 14. What could be better than giving to charity and getting a pastrami sandwich all in one go?
Zaftigs
335 Harvard Street
Head back in time with the classic deli experience at Zaftigs. Here you can get your pastrami in a breakfast scramble with Swiss cheese and a choice of toast or a sandwich with chopped liver and red onion on pumpernickel. The options don’t end there. Add some pastrami to a grilled cheese or the classic with Swiss cheese and Russian dressing on rye.
On the way out, be sure to grab one of Girlfriend Baking’s cupcakes, sold exclusively at Zaftigs. These dairy and gluten-free delights come in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, cookies and cream, and black and white.
The Butcherie
428 Harvard Street
If you prefer to make your own sandwiches, you can pick up pastrami at the kosher deli at The Butcherie. Better yet, throw a National Pastrami Day party at the office with one of their deli platters. While you’re at it snag some kugel for dessert or a bottle of wine to top off the meal. The market also serves up classic pre-made pastrami sandwiches, soups, and salads.
The Butcherie has been operating in Brookline since Max, and Jack Gelerman opened it in 1972. Since Rubin’s deli closed in 2016, it’s been Brookline’s go-to kosher grocery. So you’re not only supporting National Pastrami Day, you’re supporting a slice of Brookline culture, pun intended.
