Inheriting Katz's: How Jake Dell Kept the Deli Alive

Dell initially intended to pursue medicine, having completed pre-med coursework during college. The pivot toward the family business occurred during a gap year, driven by the realization that without his intervention, the deli faced a high probability of being sold to developers. He officially joined the operation in 2009, eventually balancing the demands of an MBA program with a transition to 24-hour service.

Running a staff of 200 requires a delicate balance between tradition and modern expansion. While his father and uncle—now in their late 70s—still offer their share of constructive criticism during lunch visits, Dell has modernized the brand through high-profile collaborations with figures like Diplo and luxury houses like Prada. Despite the professional growth, he remains protective of his personal time, making a deliberate effort to be present for his own children, aged 5 and 3. While he harbors hopes that the next generation will eventually step into his shoes, he insists the decision must be born of passion rather than obligation.