May is Jewish American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, contributions, and traditions of Jewish Americans. In New York City, Jewish culture is deeply woven into the fabric of the city, with iconic businesses, delis, bakeries, and cultural institutions that have been community staples for generations. Many of these historic and modern Jewish-owned businesses can be found near NYC Ferry landings, making it easy to explore everything from legendary knishes and pastrami sandwiches to beautifully preserved synagogues and museums.
Whether you’re looking for a taste of classic Jewish cuisine, searching for cultural treasures, or browsing Judaica, these destinations are a great way to celebrate Jewish heritage in NYC.
The Pickle Guys
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
The Pickle Guys keep the tradition of old-school, barrel-cured pickles alive, offering a variety of sour, half-sour, and specialty pickles made the way New Yorkers have loved for generations.
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Russ & Daughters
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
For over 100 years, Russ & Daughters has been serving up the finest smoked fish, bagels, and babka, making it a must-visit for anyone craving classic Jewish appetizing foods.
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Katz’s Delicatessen
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
A true NYC institution since 1888, Katz’s Delicatessen is famous for its overstuffed pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, piled high on fresh rye bread.
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Kossar’s Bialys
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
The oldest bialy bakery in the United States, Kossar’s has been making its signature chewy, onion-filled rolls for nearly a century, along with delicious bagels and traditional Jewish baked goods.
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Mendel Goldberg Fabrics
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
Founded in 1890, Mendel Goldberg Fabrics is a fourth-generation family business known for its high-quality textiles, attracting designers and fashion enthusiasts from around the world.
Yonah Schimmel’s Knish Bakery
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
Since 1910, Yonah Schimmel’s has been the go-to spot for knishes, offering hand-rolled, generously stuffed potato, kasha, and sweet knishes baked to perfection.
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Edith’s Eatery & Grocery
Route: East River
Landing: North Williamsburg
A modern Jewish café and grocery store, Edith’s offers a fresh take on Jewish deli favorites, featuring hand-rolled bagels, house-cured fish, and a selection of traditional pantry staples.
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The Jewish Museum
Route: Soundview
Landing: East 90th Street
The Jewish Museum showcases over 4,000 years of Jewish art and culture, offering exhibitions that explore Jewish identity, history, and creativity.
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Museum of Jewish Heritage
Route: St. George, East River, South Brooklyn, Soundview, Astoria, Rockaway
Landing: Battery Park City & Pier 11 / Wall Street
Dedicated to Holocaust remembrance and Jewish history, the Museum of Jewish Heritage tells the story of resilience and survival through exhibits, personal testimonies, and artifacts.
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Museum at Eldridge Street
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
This beautifully restored 19th-century synagogue is a National Historic Landmark and home to exhibitions, tours, and programs celebrating Jewish immigrant life on the Lower East Side.
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Harris Levy Fine Linens
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
Founded in 1894, Harris Levy Fine Linens has provided generations of New Yorkers with premium table linens, bedding, and bath essentials, earning a reputation for elegance and quality.
West Side Judaica & Bookstore
Route: Soundview
Landing: East 90th Street
While a bit further out from the ferry landing, located across town on the Upper West Side, West Side Judaica is a long-standing resource for Jewish books, religious items, and holiday essentials. After arriving at the East 90th Street ferry stop, visitors can take the M86 bus across Central Park to reach the shop.
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From iconic delis and historic bakeries to museums and cultural landmarks, these Jewish-owned businesses and institutions are a vital part of New York City’s rich history. Whether you’re indulging in a classic pastrami sandwich, visiting a museum, or picking up Judaica for your next holiday celebration, NYC Ferry makes it easy to explore and support these meaningful destinations during Jewish American Heritage Month and beyond.