Kenny & Zuke's Delicatessen
Portland, OR 97205
Phone: (503) 222-3354
02/20/2008 Posted by bluesbread
CountFoodie (below) is on the right track. And unfortunately many of the other reviewers are not. This is a tribute, a loose interpretation, a Portland-foodie take on the NYC Jewish deli tradition. It is not an attempt at an authentic Jewish deli. If you've been to Ken Gordon's now-closed Ken's Place, you'll recognize some of the concepts here, and even some of the specific dishes. And remember that Ken worked hard to learn Texas-style barbecue (which he served once a week at the other place). So the pastrami here -- yes, smoky, as many others note -- is as much a Texas bbq brisket as it is a NY pastrami. I think it's delicious. But I was not seeking authentic pastrami, just a good piece of meat. The coleslaw and potato salad are decidedly nouveau-healthy, not traditional at all. The rye bread is nice for sandwiches, although way overpriced. I'd like to see them offer smaller portions and lower prices overall, and I'd raise the number of stars. And maybe' it's up to the owners to set people straight on what they're trying to do, with a clear statement on the website, menu etc.
Pros: unusual smoky pastrami, nice light rye bread, chopped liver
Cons: prices
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