A corner deli that turned into a $70-million culinary empire — without ever opening a second location. That’s the kind of story that makes Zingerman’s Delicatessen something truly worth talking about. Founded in 1982 by Paul Saginaw and Ari Weinzweig, Zingerman’s began serving non-kosher traditional Ashkenazi Jewish delicatessen dishes and sandwiches from a century-old, 900-square-foot building on a cobblestone street in Ann Arbor’s Kerrytown neighborhood. What started as a dream between two friends has become one of the most celebrated delis in the entire country.
Back in 2003, Inc. Magazine named Zingerman’s “The Coolest Small Company in America,” and decades later, the accolades keep rolling in. ZAGAT rated it “extraordinary,” calling it “a national treasure that locals laud as the best deli in America.” Whether you’re a University of Michigan student grabbing lunch between classes or a food pilgrim who drove two hours just for the corned beef, Zingerman’s is one of those rare places that actually lives up to the hype.
Menu Highlights
The deli serves up thousands of made-to-order sandwiches with ingredients like premium Black Angus corned beef and pastrami, free-range chicken, turkey, housemade chopped liver, and chicken salad. The Reuben is arguably the crown jewel of the menu — a towering, generously stacked sandwich that regulars and first-timers alike can’t stop raving about. The corned beef, in particular, is consistently praised for its exceptional quality and depth of flavor.
Beyond the sandwiches, Zingerman’s Deli stocks an exceptional array of farmhouse cheeses, unique olive oils, varietal bottles of vinegar, smoked fish, high-quality salami, locally roasted coffee, exquisite teas, and locally sourced vegetables for salads. It’s a gourmet grocery experience as much as it is a restaurant, and you’ll likely leave with a bag full of provisions in addition to your lunch. Don’t be surprised if you spend more time browsing the shelves than you planned.
One beloved menu quirk: sandwiches come with your choice of a “new” or “old” pickle, wrapped separately so the pickle juice doesn’t get on your sandwich — a small but thoughtful detail that long-time fans genuinely appreciate. There are also samples available to taste before buying, making it easy to explore the wide selection of specialty items before committing. For anyone with a sweet tooth, the adjacent bakery is not to be missed.
The menu is impressively accommodating. There are several options for vegetarians, including the Skokie Skidoo — essentially a vegetarian Reuben — and options like Leo’s Friendly Lion and Gemini Rocks the House, featuring mozzarella, tomato, and pesto. The Soy Vey is the only fully vegan item on the menu, though the Hash Plate can be made vegan with simple modifications. Gluten-free bread is also available for those who need it.
One thing to keep in mind: the sandwiches are very large, and splitting one is more than enough for two people if you have a moderate appetite. First-time visitors are often caught off guard by the sheer size of these beautifully constructed creations.
More Than Just a Deli — A Food Emporium
As Zingerman’s grew, it expanded its offerings to imported gourmet foods, making its own bread at Zingerman’s Bakehouse and creating dairy products at Zingerman’s Creamery. When you buy a sandwich at Zingerman’s, they made the corned beef and the bread. That level of vertical integration is rare and speaks volumes about the commitment to quality baked into every bite. The founders chose to avoid the franchise model entirely, instead expanding their expertise and team into new, independent businesses — all of them rooted right here in Ann Arbor.
The enterprise now owns several brand names, including Zingerman’s Mail Order, Zingerman’s Coffee Company, Zingerman’s Candy, and Zingerman’s Catering. If you can’t make it to Ann Arbor in person, you can order many of their beloved products shipped directly to your door. For many former Ann Arbor residents and University of Michigan alumni, those mail-order boxes are a cherished connection to home.
Atmosphere & Décor
The building that houses Zingerman’s Delicatessen was built in 1902 on the corner of Kingsley and Detroit streets in Ann Arbor, originally as a neighborhood grocery store. That history is palpable the moment you step inside. Think pressed tin ceilings and black and white tiled floors — a bohemian food lover’s paradise that people put up with cramped shopping areas and lines out the door for, because the food is amazing and it feels like things are happening there.
One enters to be blown back by the smells of fresh bagels and breads, cheese, and meats — it’s a full sensory experience before you’ve even ordered. The layout takes you on a journey: browse the artisan goods and gourmet grocery selections up front, work your way toward the ordering area, then find a table. Outdoor seating is available with many seats under a tent for shade or shelter in bad weather, and there is also seating on the second floor inside. The atmosphere hums with energy — a mix of locals, students, tourists, and dedicated food lovers, all drawn together by a shared love of exceptional food.
Other Considerations
How are the prices? Zingerman’s is not an inexpensive trip — though it’s worth noting that they pay their staff a living wage and benefits without relying on tips. Expect sandwich prices that reflect premium, thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Zingerman’s justifies prices that seem high by touting outstanding quality and service, along with their satisfaction guarantee. Most who visit consider the splurge well worth it.
Can I bring my kids? Absolutely. The deli caters well to families, with a variety of options for picky eaters. The staff is notably patient and knowledgeable, happy to walk you — and curious little ones — through the full selection. The on-site food samples are a great way to let kids (and adults) explore before committing to an order.
How’s the wait? The wait is worth it, though it does take time to reach the front of the line, and then another stretch to receive your order. The preferred way to skip the longest waits is to order ahead via the Snack Pass app and schedule a pickup time. On busy days — especially around University of Michigan football games — the line can stretch well out the door, so planning ahead is strongly recommended.
What about parking? Parking is very tight around the location, and finding a space several blocks away is common — though it’s a short and pleasant walk through Kerrytown. Build in a few extra minutes when planning your visit, especially on weekends.
Is there anything unique about the ordering process? There is a small outdoor shed set up with ordering kiosks, though first-time visitors may want to head inside where helpful employees are on hand to answer all your questions. The space also functions as a full store where you can buy bread, deli meats, condiments, and even cookbooks — so leave time to explore before or after your meal.
Zingerman’s Delicatessen
📍 422 Detroit St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Website: https://www.zingermansdeli.com
