Why Every Great Jewish Deli Has a Pickle Bar (And Why Ours Is Kind of a Big Dill)

Walk into a traditional Jewish deli and you’ll notice something before your sandwich even hits the table: the pickles.

At Mikey & Mel’s Deli, our pickle bar isn’t just a side attraction—it’s part of the experience. Some guests grab one spear. Others treat it like an appetizer buffet (we see you). Either way, there’s a reason pickles have been a deli tradition for generations.

It All Started With Tradition

Long before refrigeration, pickling was one of the best ways to preserve vegetables. Jewish immigrants brought those recipes with them to America, where pickles quickly became a staple in neighborhood delis.

Over time, the pickle became more than just preserved food—it became the opening act.

Today, no true deli experience feels complete without that first crisp, salty bite.

Why Are Pickles Served Before the Meal?

Believe it or not, there’s a purpose.

The bright acidity and crunch help wake up your taste buds before diving into a towering corned beef or pastrami sandwich. They also provide the perfect contrast to rich, slow-cured meats and creamy potato salad.

Think of it as stretching before the main event.

Meet the Pickle Family

Not all pickles are created equal. Here’s a quick guide to some deli favorites:

Half Sour
Fresh, crisp, and lightly fermented. These are bright green with a clean, refreshing crunch.

Full Sour
Fermented longer for a tangier, bolder flavor. If you love classic deli pickles, this one’s for you.

Garlic Dill
Packed with fresh garlic and dill for a punch of flavor in every bite.

Spicy Pickles
For guests who like a little heat with their sandwich.

Whether you’re a pickle purist or someone who wants to try them all, the pickle bar lets you discover your favorite.

The Perfect Pairing

A great pickle makes every deli classic even better.

Try one alongside:

• House-cured corned beef on rye
• Hot pastrami piled high
• A classic Reuben
• Brisket sandwiches
• Matzo ball soup
• An ice-cold Dr. Brown’s soda

The salty crunch between bites is part of what makes the entire meal unforgettable.

One Visit Isn’t Enough

We’ve watched guests spend several minutes debating which pickle to choose before they’ve even looked at the menu.

Some build a colorful plate with a little of everything. Others know exactly what they’re after.

There isn’t a wrong answer.

The only mistake is skipping the pickle bar altogether.

Come Taste the Tradition

Whether you’re visiting for breakfast, lunch, or just craving an authentic Jewish deli experience, don’t rush straight to your sandwich.

Start where generations of deli lovers have started:

At the pickle bar.

Stop by Mikey & Mel’s Deli this week, grab a plate, try a few varieties, and settle one important question for yourself…

Are you Team Half Sour or Team Full Sour?