As soon as you start walking through the cobblestone paths of the Marais in Paris, you will begin to notice the cultural and historical significance of the area. Jews have been living in this neighborhood since the Middle Ages, and if you have been there in person you definitely saw the old cemeteries and synagogues.
Nowadays, the area of Marais, which roughly translates to “the swamp,” is known for its mix of hip boutiques, traditional markets, and art galleries. It used to be a marshy land surrounding the banks of the Seine years ago, but now it has become a popular place to visit if you are interested in Jewish-French culture in Paris.
In Yiddish, the area is known as “the little square” or “The Pletzl,” and Jews have opened many shops, restaurants, and bakeries here. It is a melting pot of Jewish culture in 2023, and you can find a fun mix of Ashkenazi, Mizrahi, Sephardic, and Israeli culture here.
Aside from Marias, there are many other Jewish eateries you can try out if you want to explore the Jewish food culture in Paris. To help you make the most of your trip to Paris and discover amazing food, we have listed the best Jewish deli Paris spots in this article that offer amazing Jewish dishes. You can find comforting matzo ball soup here as well as pastrami sandwiches that will make you return for more.
Here Are Some of the Best Jewish Deli Spots in Paris To Explore When Visiting
Schwartz’s Deli
If you are a fan of American Jewish cuisine and are craving some amazing New York-style Jewish deli food, you need to visit Schwartz’s Deli in Paris. It was established in 2009 and has been a customer favorite for years.
Schwartz’s Deli in Paris will take you back in time with its old-school interior design and style of serving. It is reminiscent of the US diner culture of the 1950s with its mix of amazing Jewish deli staples, such as the classic Reuben sandwich and the towering pastrami sandwich. Aside from that, you can also find delicious burgers and hot dogs at Schwartz’s Deli that are not only made fresh to order but are also quite filling.
What makes Schwartz’s Deli stand out from the rest is its history and long experience of serving Jewish-American food. The eatery boasts a family experience of over 60 years and is well known in Paris for its high-quality dishes. The deli has been quite successful in Paris and has three locations across the city.
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Florence Kahn
Florence Kahn is an eponymous bakery that is situated in the heart of the Pletzl and has a stunning blue mosaic exterior that immediately sets it apart. It is a delightful Jewish deli that provides patrons with a unique bakery and deli experience.
You can find fresh challah on the shelves as well as scrumptious pastries that are a guilty pleasure of many Jewish people who frequent the location. Florence Kahn also serves some amazing savory sandwiches that include fillings like corned beef, pastrami, and turkey.
Tip: The most popular sandwich at Florence Kahn has to be their Kahn’s signature pletzel. This sandwich is one of a kind and is made with a delicious flatbread layered with poppy seeds and onions. This fluffy sandwich bread is then filled with slices of corned beef, pastrami, or turkey and topped with caviar, red peppers, eggplant, cucumbers, pickles, and tomatoes.
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Sacha Finkelsztajn – La Boutique Jaune
Sacha Finkelsztajn is another great bakery/deli in Paris specializing in Jewish deli food. You can find the same type of charming delicacies offered at Florence Kahn, along with some amazing baked goods and ingredients.
This Jewish deli was established in Paris in 1946 and has been a popular spot among locals for authentic Jewish food. Their cheesecakes, pastries, and cookies are the main attraction for most people.
Tip: If you visit Sacha Finkelsztajn, you must try their challah bread and knishes – to die for.
Also, if you are looking for some Jewish groceries, you can find various dips, puréed aubergine, hummus, and traditional Jewish stuffed fish at the location as well. The staff is quite friendly and would be happy to help you pick out some of their most popular products.
Chez Hanna
If you are in Marais, you must stop at Chez Hanna for a delicious treat. The neighborhood is quite lively and vibrant, and the food you’ll find here tastes fantastic. The Jewish food at this location is inspired by Israeli cuisine, and you may find options like the lamb chops platter and various types of falafels on the menu. In case you want to enjoy a fancy meal, you can even request some Israeli wine to go along with your choice of food.
The place is located on a highly vibrant street, and you can even pick out some food for take away. Even if you notice a long line to get food here, it’s recommended that you stick around for a while since the taste is definitely worth the wait.
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Chez Victor
If you have visited Jewish Delis in the US, especially New York Jewish delis, you will instantly be reminded of them as soon as you enter Chez Victor. The deli has a meat counter in the back as well as a full restaurant-type setting in the front.
Just like in New York City, the deli sandwiches here are huge and served on fresh brioche-like buns that are topped with sautéed onions and poppy seeds. If you are a meat lover, you will instantly fall in love with their offerings, as each sandwich contains a hefty helping of sliced corned beef, pastrami, turkey, etc.
The price of each food item is quite reasonable, especially considering the premium quality of the meat and other products. You may notice some hustle and bustle at the restaurant during lunch hours, but remember that the food will be worth it even if you have to wait for some time.
You can also order amazing desserts at the end of your meal or take some frozen meat products to enjoy at home. Therefore, if you are ever near Chez Victor, be sure to pick up a sandwich or frozen burger patties from this Jewish deli.
Alfi Nouvelle Tradition
You won’t find classic Jewish sandwiches at Alfi Nouvelle Tradition. Instead, you can enjoy Alfis, which is a special type of sandwich only found at Alfi Nouvelle Tradition. The slogan of the deli is in French, which translates to “It’s not a sandwich, it’s an Alfi.”
You can choose from a variety of different types of Alfis that feature different protein options. The most popular types of fillings for Alfis are turkey, beef pastrami, and sausages. If you are a vegetarian, you can also request them for a roasted veggie Alfie with your choice of bread.
Best Jewish Deli Paris – Frequently Asked Questions
Is Florence Kahn kosher?
Yes, you can find some tasty and premium quality kosher food at Florence Kahn.
Where is the Jewish district in Paris?
The Marais is commonly known as the Jewish district in Paris. It has been home to Jews since the 13th century and has a Yiddish name, “The Pletzl,” which translates to “little place”.
What arrondissement is the Marais district?
The Marais district covers all of the 3rd arrondissement as well as the 4th arrondissement.
Why is Le Marais famous?
Le Marais is world-famous for its beautiful cobblestone streets, beautiful courtyards, serene gardens, and a vibrant Jewish community.
What are some of the best Jewish deli Paris locations highly rated by patrons?
Schwartz’s Deli, Florence Kahn, Sacha Finkelsztajn, Chez Hanna, and Chez Victor are some of Paris’s most highly-rated Jewish delis.
EPIC PARIS Food Tour – 11 INCREDIBLE Stops – Best of LE MARAIS
Discover 11 TOP TASTES in Paris! Chocolate, Jewish food, croissants, macarons, wine, French onion soup, French bread, French coffee, steak tartare, galettes, pastis, and more! Beware – this food tour is EPIC and includes stops from the Devour Tours Paris food tour as well!
Summary
Contrary to what many people might believe, the Jewish food scene in Paris is quite amazing. You can find a variety of American-Jewish deli-style dishes as well as Israeli products that can wow you with their flavors.
The Marais is a popular area in Paris that is predominantly Jewish and has great Jewish restaurants and delis that you can visit. Whether you are looking for comforting dishes like matzo ball soup or falafel, this area is your best bet. The prices are quite reasonable for all Jewish delis in Paris, and you can easily enjoy fantastic food without splurging too much.
My name is Jay and I started this website to share my love of Deli Food. I am Jewish with Italian ancestry and grandparents who emigrated to the US from Poland, Russia and Turkey. This website is my celebration of the delicious flavors of international deli culture. Please feel free to send me your suggestions and feedback through the contact form.
