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1908...

When my grandfather, Barney Greengrass, first opened his doors in Harlem in 1908, he had but one desire – to operate a “food store for those who demand the best.” In 1929, he moved the store to its present location on Amsterdam Avenue. His customers followed him and his popularity grew. Soon all of New York knew him as “The Sturgeon King.”

Today, the store on Amsterdam Avenue at 86th Street retains the “Greengrass” character, looking much like it did back in Barney’s day. After three generations, our family is still dedicated to our founder’s original aim; to cater to those who demand the best by serving the finest foods available. Our customers are our friends, traveling from all over the world to feast on delicacies that have become a New York way of life.

We ship our fine foods anywhere in the U.S. You can call us or visit our website today and have your order delivered directly to your home or office tomorrow. We pack our fresh foods with frozen gel packs and take every precaution to ensure that your order is just right when it arives. If you do not see a particular item on the following pages, or on our website, please inquire with us by phone, as almost anything can be shipped.

We invite you to become a part of a hundred and five year tradition, and experience our commitment to setting the New York standard.

Gary Greengrass.

1908

The original Barney Greengrass store opened in Harlem on 113th Street and St. Nicholas Avenue.

Original Barney Greengrass Logo Featuring Neptune

1929

Barney Greengrass moved to its present location at 541 Amsterdam Avenue.

1938

Current location expanded and opened a restaurant section.

Barney Greengrass storefront from the 30's

James J. Frawley, a state senator and Tammany Hall leader, coined the phrase “The Sturgeon King.”

1939

Barney Greengrass shipped an order of smoked sturgeon to President Franklin D. Roosevelt in Warm Springs, GA for Thanksgiving.

1955

Barney Greengrass passed away and handed the reins to his son, Moe.

Moe as a child at the store

1956

The Sturgeon King takes a Queen – Moe and Shirley tied the knot.

Moe and Shirley in front of the deli counter

1961

Barney’s grandson Gary learned early on from his dad how to slice it in the lox and bagel business.

1979

Barney Greengrass celebrated 50 years at its present location.

1982

Gary took over the family business. “My brother is Barney Greengrass. I’m Barney Greengrass, Inc.”

1992

New Barney Greengrass logo unveiled – Neptune gets a facelift.

1999

When asked about the approaching millenium, Gary assured everyone that the carbon paper used to take orders would be Y2K compatible.

2000

BarneyGreengrass.com was launched – don’t wait on line, shop online.

2002

Moe passed away – his famous card tricks will be missed.

2006

Fourth generation Greengrass, Moe Benjamin was born. Gary named him after his father so he can use his father’s old business cards.

Barney Greengrass received the James Beard Award as “An American Classic.”

2007

10 Years in a row Rated #1 Deli in New York Zagat Survey.

2008

Barney Greengrass turns 100!