Pastrami: An endangered species?

It has not been a good year for delis in Kansas City. The New York Bakery and Delicatessen on Troost closed, as did Pumpernick’s Restaurant and Deli in Leawood.

Maybe writer David Sax could have helped. He’s the author of Save the Deli: In Search of Perfect Pastrami, Crusty Rye, and The Heart of The Jewish Delicatessen, an ode to Jewish food and a culinary tour of delis across North America slated to come out on October 19. He’s also launched a companion blog that attempts to encapsulate the mix of travelogue and food criticism that is interwoven throughout the book.

A thread on about the Midwest fails to offer up a single corned beef recommendation in Kansas City. Is that an oversight or just a sad commentary on the corned beef state of affairs in this burg?

At times, finding the traditional stalwarts of a Jewish deli can seem difficult — it’s as though a stellar menu has been torn to pieces and scattered throughout town. The finest knishes might be at You Say Tomato, while the best matzo ball soup is still likely found at d’Bronx. The best Reuben makes for a great bar argument, while half-sour pickles are apparently only available to the home canning set. 

So take notice, sliced meat enthusiasts. Any book that has its release party at a delicatessen is one worth a look.

[Image via Flickr: jasonlam]