Katz’s Deli Is Reopening a Historic Dining Room for the First Time Since 1949 (Exclusive)

**Historic Room at Katz’s Deli Reopens After Decades as Part of Transformation**

Renowned New York City establishment Katz’s Delicatessen has reintroduced a historic dining area, known as “The Ludlow Room,” for public use, a move not witnessed since the room closed in 1949. The celebrated deli, situated in the Lower East Side, revealed the restoration on May 19, aiming to accommodate growing demand while offering a unique venue for private events and gatherings.

Originally operational from the 1920s until its closure, The Ludlow Room was repurposed into a sizeable walk-in refrigerator, primarily to store its famed pastrami, corned beef, and brisket. Now, under the guidance of owner Jake Dell, the room has been meticulously restored to reflect its original charm, preserving features such as the exquisite tin ceilings and period-appropriate decor.

Dell shared with PEOPLE that the completed space reflects “Katz’s of 80 years ago.” He expressed enthusiasm about the restoration, stating it mirrors precisely how the deli appeared before its conversion into a refrigeration unit. To enhance the historical significance of the reopening, Dell noted that photographs have been placed on the walls, depicting what the restaurant might have looked like in its heyday.

Founded in 1888 on Houston Street, Katz’s moved across the street to Ludlow Street in the 1920s due to the construction of the IRT subway line, now identified as the F train. The Ludlow Room served as a bustling restaurant hub, welcoming patrons throughout significant historical events like the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and World War II, reflecting both the community’s resilience and the evolving culinary landscape of New York City.

The impetus for restoring the dining area came when the deli found itself able to relocate its refrigeration units to a different section of the establishment. Dell mentioned that this opportunity triggered the year-long renovation process, ultimately resulting in the rebirth of a space long thought lost to history.

The reopening of The Ludlow Room comes in response to the increasing foot traffic and customer interest observed at Katz’s since the pandemic. Viral social media trends, particularly on platforms like TikTok, have contributed to a surge in patrons eager to experience the deli’s offerings. Dell acknowledged that this restoration provides a chance to manage the growing number of visitors more effectively, fulfilling veneration for the deli while also addressing logistical challenges.

Moreover, there has been a rising demand for private events in recent years. Dell explained that previously the deli turned away numerous requests to host parties and film shoots, as accommodating this demand could lead to inconveniences for regular diners. With the reopening of The Ludlow Room, Katz’s now has the ability to accommodate these private events without alienating its core clientele.

The newly restored room offers more than just historical ambiance; it features a dedicated cutter who will slice meats to order for event attendees. Thoughtful design choices have been integrated into the experience, with nods to the 1920s reflected in the flooring pattern, wainscoting, and lighting. Dell describes The Ludlow Room as a version of Katz’s that many people have not experienced, pointing to the rich history that the deli has cultivated over its long existence.

Each pound of meat served at Katz’s between 1949 and the anticipated year of 2026 was weighed on the same freight scale now located in The Ludlow Room, linking generations of diners and culinary experiences. The reopening signifies one of the most substantial physical transformations in the deli’s modern history since its adaptation, marking the return of a long-neglected part of New York’s culinary heritage back to public life.

Overall, The Ludlow Room’s reopening signals not only the resurgence of a historical dining space but also Katz’s Delicatessen’s ongoing commitment to preserving its rich history while adapting to contemporary demands. As the deli continues to thrive, it serves as a testament to the city’s evolving cultural landscape and its enduring culinary traditions.