Michael Siegel, the chef de cuisine of Betelnut (he’s been there for the past five years, plus time at Bix before that), is going to be leaving the restaurant to open his own Jewish deli concept in the Financial District called SHORTY GOLDSTEIN’S. He’s going to be featuring a variety of family recipes—from his grandmother’s chopped liver to his great-grandma’s potato knish and challah from mom—plus some other pastries. And, of course, there will be his own house pastrami, smoked fish, pickles, and more, like seasonal salads.
Siegel grew up in Tucson, but his family comes from New York and Philly, with Russian and Romanian roots. As for the fun name, it was his great-grandmother’s nickname—ends up she barely cleared four foot ten.
While the deli is going to be primarily a takeout spot, there will be 25 seats. Brunch (hello, smoked salmon platter!) and lunch will be served Mon-Fri to start. He’s hoping for a January opening; he takes possession of the space December 1st, which is when the actual location can be revealed—it’s a secret for now! Siegel is leaving Betelnut in about two weeks—he says chef Alex Ong is very supportive (although of course he’s sorry to lose him!). Am looking forward to starting the new year with this new option on the list.
Potato knishes. Photo by Jake Malmberg.
