In the bustling neighborhood of South Philly, a new culinary gem has emerged, and it's got everyone talking. Schmaltz, a breakfast and lunch café, has hit the scene with a unique twist on traditional Jewish cuisine, and it's already making waves.
The brainchild of Jeremy Asch and Abby Armstrong, Schmaltz was born out of a simple desire for a good breakfast sandwich close to home. As Asch puts it, 'If we want it, someone else probably does too.' And boy, were they right!
A Tasty Twist on Tradition
Schmaltz's signature sandwich is a masterpiece: an oniony potato pancake, a slow-baked egg, and a Philly accent in the form of Tallarico's hoagie spread blended with seasoned mayo. It's a delicious fusion of cultures, and customers are lining up for it.
But Schmaltz isn't just about the sandwich. The menu is a celebration of Ashkenazi and Eastern European cuisine, with blintzes, latkes, and even chicken-skin cracklings (gribenes) on offer. And let's not forget the schmaltz itself - rendered chicken fat, a true taste of tradition.
A Neighborhood Café with a Difference
What sets Schmaltz apart is its casual, counter-service approach. It's not your typical Jewish deli, and that's by design. Asch wants to showcase the diversity of Jewish cuisine, proving that it's so much more than just bagels.
The Power of Mentorship
Asch's journey into the restaurant world is an inspiring one. After working in clinical research, he found his calling in the kitchen, and with the mentorship of Judy Ni and Andy Tessier, he and Armstrong were able to navigate the challenges of opening a restaurant.
A Chef's Story
Chef Sam Chertock's path to Schmaltz is an interesting one. Trained as an architect, he found his way into the kitchen, working at various renowned restaurants before stumbling upon Schmaltz. 'Schmaltz' caught his attention, and the rest, as they say, is history.
A Statement of Inclusion
Despite initial concerns about openly identifying as a Jewish restaurant, Schmaltz has received an overwhelmingly positive response. Asch believes that 'calling it Schmaltz is in itself a statement,' a bold move in a world where cultural identity can sometimes be a sensitive topic.
A Neighborhood Investment
Schmaltz is more than just a restaurant; it's an investment in the community. Asch and Armstrong bought the building with the intention of nourishing their neighborhood, and that's exactly what they're doing.
In a world where chain restaurants often dominate, Schmaltz stands as a beacon of local flavor and community spirit. It's a place where neighbors can gather, enjoy a delicious meal, and feel a sense of belonging.
So, if you're ever in South Philly, be sure to check out Schmaltz. It's a taste of tradition with a modern twist, and a true neighborhood gem.
