Full Breakdown
Saul Zabar: A Culinary Icon of New York City
10/8/2025, 1:04:10 AM
Legacy of Zabar's
Saul Zabar, the longtime president and co-owner of the iconic Upper West Side grocery store Zabar's, passed away on October 7, 2025, at the age of 97. His daughter Ann confirmed that he died in Manhattan after being hospitalized with a brain bleed. Zabar's was founded in 1934 by his parents, Louis and Lillian Zabar, initially as a smoked-fish department in a Daitch supermarket. Under Saul's leadership, the business evolved from five smaller locations into a single expansive market covering approximately 20,000 square feet at Broadway and West 80th Street, generating nearly $55 million in annual sales.
Zabar's Transformation and Cultural Impact
Saul Zabar, who initially aspired to be a doctor, took over the family business after his father's untimely death in 1950. He became a pivotal figure in transforming Zabar's into a cultural landmark, renowned for its gourmet offerings, including smoked fish, cheeses, and coffee. The store served around 40,000 customers weekly, selling an estimated 2,000 pounds of smoked fish and 400,000 pounds of coffee annually. Zabar's commitment to quality was evident in his meticulous selection of products, famously expressing that fish "has to have taste. Not too this, not too that."
Family Dynamics and Business Philosophy
Saul Zabar's relationship with his brothers, Stanley and Eli, shaped the family business. While Stanley served as vice president and chief financial officer, Eli opened his own food shops on the East Side. Despite occasional tensions, Saul emphasized the importance of family, stating, “As Louis taught us, to succeed as a family business, you have to love each other, and love the business.” His two children, Ann and Aaron, continue to work at Zabar's, ensuring the legacy endures.
Community Reactions and Tributes
The passing of Saul Zabar elicited heartfelt tributes from various public figures. New York City Mayor Eric Adams described him as "a true New York legend," stating, "He gave the city lox, love, and a place to argue over babka." Governor Kathy Hochul echoed this sentiment, calling his death "a great loss for New York City." Customers and employees alike mourned his loss, recalling the vibrant atmosphere of Zabar's and the personal touch he brought to the store.
Controversies and Challenges
Throughout his tenure, Zabar faced challenges, including a notable controversy in 2011 when it was discovered that the store's lobster salad contained crawfish instead of lobster. Zabar defended the product's name change, humorously dubbing it "zabster zalad." The store also navigated difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted foot traffic but allowed its mail-order business to thrive.
Conclusion
Saul Zabar's dedication to quality and community transformed Zabar's into a beloved institution in New York City. His legacy will continue through the family members who remain committed to the values he instilled in the business. As the city remembers him, Zabar's will forever be a slice of NYC soul.
