Popular Katonah deli changes hands

Above, Paulie’s Deli, in a view from 2024. Below, chalkboard announcement outside Paulie’s, posted by the former owners. FACEBOOK

By JEFF MORRIS

After five years, Paulie’s Deli in Katonah is under new ownership.

The grab ‘n’ go deli , located at 24 Woodsbridge Road, will now be run by longtime employee Edgar Leiva.

Original owner Paul Sussman and manager Margo Stratigeas posted a picture on Paulie’s Facebook page on Tuesday of the chalkboard sign outside the deli, under the heading, “Thank you to all our wonderful customers.” 

They wrote, “After 5 wonderful years we’ve sold Paulie’s Deli. We’re so grateful for your support — it’s been an honor to serve you!” They added, “Please welcome the new owner, Edgar.”

Leiva told The Recorder he has worked at the deli for four years, and prior to that, he worked for Sussman for five years at the Route 100 Market & Deli he used to own in Somers. He said Sussman, who has now retired, decided to turn the business over to him.

In June 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sussman announced his intention to open a “grab and go” food store later that summer in the former Katonah Beverage Barn.

Sussman said though his original intent was primarily to provide a source of coffee and quick food items for commuters using the parking lot next door, he thought the business could still be successful even with a reduced number of commuters due to the coronavirus.

“I’m still moving ahead with everything,” he said, noting he thought the location was ideal for residents walking or biking, or parents taking their kids up to the Katonah town pool, which is about a half mile away. That assessment proved correct.

“I’ve gotten the needed approvals,” Sussman said in 2020. “I’m renovating the interior, changing the old barn red color on the outside, and putting a new deck out front. We’re on schedule for August.”

At that time, Sussman said he was not able to prepare any food on the premises “until the sewer comes in.” Construction on Phase II of the sewer project began the following year, and it became operational Sept. 12 of this year. However, according to Leiva, what Sussman was actually waiting for was a food permit from the Westchester County Department of Health. Once that came through, he was able to open a full kitchen. Town records indicate Paulie’s does not have a sewer connection.

Leiva said he intends to keep everything at Paulie’s the same: same name, same menu. 

“We’re going to continue providing high quality food and good customer service,” he said.