As expected, there's more to the 2nd Avenue Deli closing than just higher rent. From a NYT piece today on yesterday's de-signage: " A principal of one of the companies that own the building, Martin Newman, said that [owner Jack] Lebewohl owed $107,000 in back rent and other charges and that eviction proceedings had begun even before the deli closed." Ouch. Very ouch.
The good news: Lebewohl says he's received offers from other landlords in the city to open up shop in their buildings. Meantime, the dearly departed signage might pop up on eBay yet: Lebewohl says he plans to give most of it away. [Photo by Keith Kin Yan]
· If Second Ave. Deli Reopens, It Won't Be Where It Was [NYTimes]
· Second Avenue Kosher Delicatessen (1954-2006) [~E~]