What do U.S. presidents, Jerry Seinfeld and Car Con Carne have in common? Manny's Deli in Chicago (Episode 147) - a podcast by James VanOsdol

Manny's Deli (1141 S. Jefferson) is on a short list of legit, honest-to-goodness, Chicago food institutions. A classic deli operation that's been running since the end of World War II, Manny's remains a go-to for all three meals and a destination for local and national politicians.

Co-owner Dan Raskin joins me to talk about Manny's this week. Discussed on this episode:

• My history with Manny's, from trips with my grandparents to taking my own kids the restaurant.
• Manny's history in Chicago.
• What's allowed Manny's to endure?
• Has Manny's scared other delis away?
• Dan's philosophy on taking interview opportunities, and why it all goes back to Oprah.
• Did Dan even have a choice to not go into the family business?
• The hardest part of running Manny's? Time management.
• The "relentless onslaught of beef" that Manny's provides.
• The delicious latkes. Gotta have both sour cream and applesauce.
• President Obama's visit to Manny's.
• President Clinton's visit to Manny's.
• Why politicians meet at Manny's.
• Good and bad people have been to Manny's, but when they're eating there they never cause problems.
• The "Comedians in Cars" recording at Manny's with Jerry Seinfeld and Steve Harvey.
• What's the difference between corned beef and pastrami?
• Prep starts at midnight!
• Manny's expansion project, opening up the dining room and the creation of the deli area.
• Best part of day-to-day operations?
• Manny's is in Costco! Manny's is in Costco!
• What happened to Manny's at Midway Airport? 

This week's show is lovingly sponsored by Boost Mobile.

 

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