The owner of THE Harold’s Deli in Edison, New Jersey, Harold Jaffe, has passed away.
The cherished founder of THE Harold’s Deli in Edison, New Jersey, Harold Jaffe, passed away, and we mourn his death. At the age of 82, Harold died on March 5, 2025, but his influence endures in the culinary and deli culture industries. Known for his enormous sandwiches and contagious love of food, Harold rose to fame in New Jersey, and both locals and tourists alike came to visit his deli.
Harold’s passion for uniting people around a delicious meal was the only thing that could rival his love of food, particularly sandwiches. His eatery, THE Harold’s Deli, offered more than just food—it was an experience. Harold became famous for his enormous pastrami sandwiches, which were sometimes called “mountains of meat.” He frequently used the adage, “You eat with your eyes,” to highlight the enormous portion size and delicious decadence of each sandwich as he discussed his creations. Simply said, THE Harold’s Deli’s enormous quantities and delicious quality contributed to its popularity.
Harold worked in the food sector for a long time in a variety of capacities before starting THE Harold’s Deli. He was raised in New Jersey and spent four years in the US Marines, which helped to shape his discipline and work ethic. Following his military service, Harold followed his love of culinary entrepreneurship and opened his first sandwich shop, which is still open today, in East Orange, New Jersey. Early on, it was evident that he was dedicated to the art of sandwich-making, and his diligence would soon earn him the opportunity to develop many locations, including one in Lawrenceville. The Harold’s Deli in Edison, however, would prove to be his greatest accomplishment.
Working at the famous Carnegie Deli in New York City also contributed to Harold’s success in the deli industry. His time spent working at one of the most well-known delis in the world gave him invaluable knowledge and a profound comprehension of what it takes to operate a profitable company in the fiercely competitive food sector. Working at the Carnegie Deli introduced Harold to the finer points of deli culture, such as selecting premium meats and establishing a genuine ambiance. These teachings helped to mold THE Harold’s Deli into a staple of the New Jersey culinary scene.
In Edison, THE Harold’s Deli was more than just a place to grab a sandwich; it was a gathering spot for the community. People came for the incredible food, but they also came for the experience of being in a restaurant where they were treated like family. Harold’s warm personality and love for his work were part of what made the deli so special. His passion was evident in everything he did, from the way he interacted with customers to the care he put into each sandwich he served. It was the perfect combination of excellent food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere that turned THE Harold’s Deli into a beloved local institution.
Over the years, Harold’s dedication to his craft led to a loyal following. His customers weren’t just people who came to eat—they were regulars who became friends, and Harold made sure that each of them felt valued. Whether it was a customer who ordered the same pastrami sandwich every week or someone coming in for the first time, Harold made sure to create a lasting impression on everyone. His sense of humor, his genuine interest in people, and his love for his business made him a unique figure in the restaurant world.
As the news of Harold’s passing spreads, tributes have poured in from all corners of the community. Many fans of Harold’s Deli have shared their memories of enjoying his famous sandwiches and the joy that his establishment brought to their lives. THE Harold’s Deli has served as a gathering place for friends and family, where people have celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, and other milestones over large plates of delicious food. Harold was more than just a deli owner—he was a community leader who created a space for people to enjoy the simple pleasure of a great meal and the company of good friends.
The loss of Harold Jaffe marks the end of an era for the New Jersey food scene. His legacy, however, will continue through the memories of his loyal customers, his impact on the culinary world, and the family who will carry on his tradition of great food and service. While Harold’s passing leaves a huge void in the community, the spirit of THE Harold’s Deli and the food that made it famous will live on. In many ways, Harold has now found his way to “pastrami paradise,” where his passion for food and life will be remembered by all who enjoyed his creations.
Harold’s work ethic and dedication to perfection have set the benchmark for future generations of deli owners and food enthusiasts, and he has stayed dedicated to providing the greatest deli experience possible throughout his career. His dedication to his work and his talent at using food to build relationships will never cease to amaze. The Harold’s Deli’s legacy will endure not only through its recipes but also through its emphasis on friendliness, hospitality, and a love of delicious food.
We honor Harold Jaffe’s influence on everyone around him as we remember him. We shall always remember his friendliness, kindness, and passion for his work. Every time someone enjoys one of Harold’s renowned sandwiches, his legacy will endure for those who had the pleasure of dining at THE Harold’s Deli. And Harold will always be remembered by those who knew him well as the man who elevated every meal to a momentous occasion.
Numerous people whose lives Harold Jaffe impacted will miss him. He was a well-liked person in New Jersey because of his love of food, his work ethic, and his enthusiasm for the deli industry. His contributions to the food industry will be remembered for years to come. We thank Harold for the memories, the laughs, and the delectable meals he gave as we bid him farewell. May he rest in peace, knowing that everyone who had the honor of savoring the results of his effort will always be impacted by him.