Philadelphia’s renowned Famous 4th Street Deli, a beloved institution in the Queen Village neighborhood, has resumed operations after a brief shutdown due to health code infractions. The deli, temporarily closed following a health inspection earlier in the week, reopened its doors on Friday, much to the relief of its loyal patrons.
City health inspectors conducted a surprise inspection on Wednesday and uncovered multiple violations, necessitating immediate action. According to a health department report, the Famous 4th Street Deli faced at least seven violations, some of which were repeat offenses. These violations, detailed in the official report, included the presence of rodent droppings on food contact surfaces, specifically a deli slicer, and signs of rodent activity in food preparation areas, storage spaces, and around equipment. Inspectors also noted issues with food storage practices and inadequate protection against pests, such as unprotected windows that could allow insects and rodents to enter.
The severity of these findings led to a mandatory cease operation order, requiring the Famous 4th Street Deli to rectify the issues before being allowed to reopen. The deli management swiftly responded to the situation, addressing the violations and undergoing a re-inspection to ensure compliance with health standards.
On Friday, an employee confirmed that the Famous 4th Street Deli was once again serving customers. This reopening marks the continuation of a long and storied history for the establishment. Founded in 1923 at the corner of 4th and Bainbridge streets, the Famous 4th Street Deli has become a Philadelphia landmark. Beyond its celebrated oversized sandwiches, particularly the corned beef and pastrami, the deli holds a special place in Philadelphia’s political landscape, famously serving as a traditional Election Day hub for politicians. Its cultural significance extends beyond local politics, with appearances in popular films like “Philadelphia” (1993) and “In Her Shoes” (2005), as well as featuring on the Food Network’s “The Rachel Ray Show,” solidifying its place in popular culture.
