UPPER WEST SIDE, Manhattan (WABC) — Saul Zabar, the president and co-owner of the iconic Upper West Side gourmet grocery store Zabar’s has died at the age of 97.
His daughter, Rachel, who once worked behind the counter as a teenager, announced his death on social media on Tuesday.
Zabar became the face of the food emporium which was first founded by his parents in 1934.
The oldest of three brothers, Zabar originally wanted to become a doctor, but left college to go into the family business after his father died in 1950.
He is credited for helping to turn the store into a cultural landmark.
“Saul’s pursuit of excellence defined not only his work, but his entire life,” said Scott Goldshine, General Manager of Zabar’s. “We will all miss his company and presence profoundly, and his spirit will forever remain at the heart of Zabar’s.”
Over time, five locations were consolidated into a large single market at West 80th and Broadway.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams called Saul “A true New York legend.”
“He gave the city lox, love, and a place to argue over babka,” Adams said. “Zabar’s isn’t just a store, it’s a slice of NYC soul. May his memory be a blessing.”
Photo by Corey Sipkin/NY Daily News Archive via Getty Images
The Upper West Side shop is known for its fancy cheese, smoked fish, and coffee among other specialty items.
“I love the coffee here, that’s number one,” said one long-time customer. “I moved here in 1992 to go to school and stayed. I love Zabar’s.”
“I love the salmon. That’s what you come to Zabar’s for,” another customer said. “I just love the feeling of the store. It’s a fun place to go.”
Saul Zabar is survived by his wife and three children.
Some members of the second generation have joined this family firm to make sure the doors stay open.
There is now a memorial chair at the store with Saul Zabar’s name tag.
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