Just over two weeks ago, the St. Louis Jewish Light reported that Kohn’s Kosher Deli in Creve Coeur, the only free-standing full-service kosher grocery in St. Louis, had closed in early July, after 63 years in business. The publication also reported that the deli was being sued by an Illinois kosher food supplier for nearly $150,000 in unpaid bills. This week, the St. Louis Business Journal reported that the building, name, and trademarks are for sale for $1.7 million.
Yesterday, the St. Louis Jewish Light reported that, according to a statement from Vaad Hoeir of St. Louis, an organization that provides kosher certification, Nate’s Kosher Deli will open temporarily in the space, pending the finalization of a permanent venue. Deli services will include butchery, dine-in and to-go service, plus catering.
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Nate’s Kosher Deli is owned by Avi Rosenberg, former director of operations at Simply Sushi, a New York-based kosher franchise. It was reported that Rosenberg will relocate to St. Louis with his family to oversee the deli’s operations.
Reached today, Rosenberg confirmed the news but stressed that when inspections are passed, hopefully within a week or two, the opening will be “very soft,” while he continues the search for a permanent space, which will be smaller and more up-to-date, with a service approach that’s different from Kohn’s cafeteria-style model.
In related news, Vaad Hoeir also announced that Schnucks Ladue Crossing will soft-launch an extension of its fresh kosher food selection, tentatively beginning September 9. The expansion will include grab-and-go fresh salads, deli sandwiches, dairy and pareve sandwiches, sliced deli meats, and pizza.
