As the leaves begin to fall and the air gets crisp, warming comfort food is a must. Located just off of Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square is Jewish Mother’s Delicatessen, which strives to create food that feels comforting and familiar, even if you have never had it.
In just over a month in business, the Jewish Mother’s Deli seems like it’s going to be a go-to for students at the College of William and Mary.
On a chilly Thursday afternoon, my friend and I decided to go to the new Jewish Mother’s Deli to escape dining hall lunch. As we walked in, we both immediately felt comforted by the warm and cozy yet modern atmosphere.
Although it’s a tiny space, you need a minute to take it all in. As I stepped inside, I smelled the unmistakable aroma of bagels. Once we were greeted, my eyes were immediately drawn to the pastry case, with the beautiful, mouth-watering cakes. Just above that were seven wire baskets full of fresh bagels.
On the back, white-tiled wall were chalkboard menus that overwhelmed you in the best way possible. With so many delicious-sounding items, it took me a few minutes longer than normal to decide on my order.
I finally chose a hot pastrami sandwich and a cup of Matzah ball soup. My friend decided on the deli breakfast sandwich and joined me in ordering the soup.
After ordering, I got distracted by the small, clean, open kitchen that was next to the counter. While waiting for our food and watching the staff in the kitchen, we quickly understood that each meal is made to order, specifically for the customer. It’s the personal aspect mixed with the distinct menu that makes this place so special.
After receiving our food, I had the opportunity to speak with Samantha Triano, the manager of Jewish Mother’s Deli.
“We’ve noticed that a lot of families will come in that are from Williamsburg, and we want it to be a place where locals almost feel like they’re at home,” Triano said. “They’re coming in and they’re getting their mom’s soup and their mom’s sandwiches.”
Owner Sid Hall knows a thing or two about the restaurant business, as he also owns Waypoint Seafood and Grill, Water Street Grille and Riverwalk Restaurant. Hall also recently opened Ember, a steak and seafood Asian-fusion restaurant, in Merchants Square.
Hall grew up in Williamsburg, but his family is from New York City. Coming from a Jewish background, Hall always wanted to open a deli where he could serve comforting, traditional foods. You can tell that he loves and values the memories evoked by this food.
After speaking with Triano, my friend and I found a table in Merchants Square and dug into our delectable lunch.
I first bit into the hot pastrami sandwich, and, boy, did it exceed my expectations. The sandwich felt like a warm hug. It was simple, made with just mustard and pastrami on toasted rye bread, but it was a perfect comfort meal.
Next, I took a spoonful of the Matzah ball soup, which was the perfect thing to warm me up on this chilly fall day. The soup was brothy and nutritious with two large dumplings, carrots, onions, celery and noodles — the right thing if you’re in need of some nourishment.
My friend thought their deli breakfast sandwich was delicious. It was another simple delight: a fresh bagel, a runny egg, cheese and meat of your choice. What’s fascinating about their bagels is that they are shipped in from Brooklyn, N.Y., nearly every day. This adds to the special New York feel of the deli.
As a student, I am so excited that there is a new place to get quality comfort food, which is exactly the reaction Triano hoped for.
“When I was going to college, there was always that one spot that you always went to,” Triano said. “You always knew that every morning you would always go to that one place, and it was the spot that all students always talk about. That’s what we want to be known for.”
Later that day, I had the chance to talk to Kyra Taube ’29, who shared about her visit to the Jewish Mother’s Deli.
“I’m always looking for places to eat that aren’t the dining hall, and I come from a Jewish family, so that’s sort of food I grew up with,” Taube said.
I am already planning my next lunch at the deli and want to try one of their bagel sandwiches next time. And, of course, a slice of chocolate cake would be a perfect addition.
Overall, Jewish Mother’s Deli is a perfect addition to Williamsburg. It has a homey, welcoming feel with a specific but simple menu. It’s a small space with a bounty of quality, distinct food. If you’re willing to try something new and need the satisfaction of simple, comforting food served in a cozy, modern storefront, take a trip to Jewish Mother’s Deli. You will be happy you did!
