In recent times Auckland’s bustling restaurant scene has reversed the sentiment of Sinatra’s classic New York, New York – if you can make a meal anywhere, you can make it there.
 
Despite the offer of such wide-ranging culinary experiences the city of sails has never before provided the distinctive cuisine from the city that never sleeps.
 
That’s all changed with the introduction of the Federal Delicatessen. Al Brown has brought a slice from the Big Apple back to New Zealand with his old-school New York Jewish deli in the heart of the Sky City precinct.
 
There was no need to start spreading the news – since opening in mid-September the business has been understandably busy.
 
Al’s ubiquitous reputation provides a ready-made base of devotees. From Logan Brown to Depot to his many memorable television appearances, every step in his career has reaped considerable acclaim. His ability to redefine and refocus the dining experience with each new venture also wins plenty of new fans.
 
He’s now taken past experience living in Brooklyn and shaped it into a venue that manages to combine both New York sophistication and New Zealand charm.
 
Well-known as providing the backdrop for shows like Seinfeld and films like When Harry Met Sally, the New York deli throughout history has traditionally provided both sustenance and community.
In Auckland the distinctive booths and counter seats are now occupied with new converts to the wonders of Jewish cuisine.

Designed by the award-winning Charlie Nott Architects, the attention to detail and ‘hand on heart’ authenticity of the interior transports patrons to a different time and place. Within such an all-encompassing environment they enjoy slow cooked, hand-cut specialty meats, cured lox, bagels, Reuben sandwiches and deluxe salads. Here, there’s everything from breakfast Latkes to smoked brisket and veal schnitzel.
 
And, of course, there’s the classic filter coffee and legendary deli ‘pie’.
 

IN THE KITCHEN

Serving such a wide-ranging menu morning, noon and night puts pressure on both the team and the technology in the open-plan Fed kitchen. Luckily Al’s maxim to always “surround yourself with enthusiastic talented people” delivers the passion and expertise in the team.
 
And, with similar sound investment in equipment, the technology can take the heat too.The Fed is certainly not a ‘me too’ type of establishment – delivering consistent, authentic Jewish cuisine requires both raw power and a fine touch. With careful scoping and planning of the kitchen such capability is delivered with confidence and ease.