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Jewish Deli Embraces Italian Tradition with a Twist
As the final night of Hanukkah approaches in Jersey City, a beloved pop-up deli is preparing to unveil a delightful surprise. Hank Schwartz's Delicatessen & Appetizing, known for its rich Jewish deli tradition, is embarking on a remarkable culinary journey by reimagining the Feast of the Seven Fishes, an Italian-American Christmas Eve classic, into a special Hanukkah feast. This imaginative event, dubbed the Feast of the Smoked & Cured Fishes, showcases the endless possibilities when two distinct culinary traditions intersect.
A Personal Culinary Adventure
Owner and self-taught chef Jason Stahl drew inspiration from his wife’s Italian family traditions during Christmas. “We’re an interfaith family, and we celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas,” Stahl shares. His vision for the dish stems from fond memories of holiday gatherings, filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, delicious food. The resulting menu is not just a meal; it is a tribute to the beauty of blending cultures and honoring familial ties.
Creating the Ultimate Seafood Charcuterie
The main attraction is a beautifully curated board comprising up to eight types of smoked and cured fish, symbolically inspired by the eight nights of Hanukkah. Expectations run high with remarkable offerings such as:
- Citrus-bright gravlax
- Classic Nova smoked salmon
- Silky sablefish
- Maple-bacon salmon candy
- Jazzed-up whitefish spread
- Matjes herring
- Briny fish roe
- Smoked trout
This “seacuterie” is accompanied by delightful sides, including za’atar-spiced olives, a dill-forward cucumber salad, and an assortment of pickled goodies like capers and peppadews. Completing the experience is a hearty loaf of Black Rooster dark rye, perfect for scooping up flavors that burst with tradition and creativity.
A Celebration of Community and Flavor
This initiative not only showcases culinary creativity but also celebrates community spirit. The event will unfold in collaboration with The Alps wine bar, turning the dinner into a shared experience among locals on December 22. It’s not just about food; it’s about gathering around the table, strengthening connections, and indulging in the richness of diverse traditions. “This feast invites people to spend time together, share stories, and create new holiday memories,” explains Stahl.
A Nod to Tradition and a Leap into Innovation
The Feast of the Smoked & Cured Fishes marks yet another achievement for Hank Schwartz’s Delicatessen, which has gained rapid acclaim since its inception. Voted Best Breakout Business in Jersey City, the deli continues to impress culinary enthusiasts not only for its creative spins on traditional fare but also for its commitment to quality.
As the culinary landscape in New Jersey continues to evolve, Hank's offers a remarkable opportunity to explore how tradition can be reinterpreted, reminding us that food is more than sustenance—it's an expression of identity, culture, and shared joy.
Join the Celebration
This one-night-only event encourages food lovers and families to dive into a cross-cultural culinary experience that promises to delight. Celebrate the intersection of Jewish and Italian traditions this Hanukkah at The Alps, located at 351 Palisade Avenue in Jersey City, and experience the festive culinary magic firsthand.
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