Tourists coming to PJ Berstein’s for a meal of authentic Jewish Deli food shouldn’t be surprised if they look around and find a famous face nearby. There will be no fanfare preceding the celebrity visit or entourage clogging the aisles, says longtime PJ’s server Landi, who has served plenty of stars.
“You have to look closely to recognize them because they just come in and sit down,” said Landi. “A few weeks ago, Michael Douglas came in and he promised to send me a photograph. We’ve served Sharon Stone, Cuba Gooding Jr., and we have been honored to serve not one but two 007s. Daniel Craig was in recently. And Sean Connery used to live nearby and would come in like every day.”
Notable politicians such as Sen. Charles Schumer and former Mayor Ed Koch have sat at PJ’s tables, said Landi. Off the top of his head, he also remembered the visits of Marisa Tomei, Simon Cowell, Liza Minelli and Bette Midler. Stars of yesteryear who visited included Lucille Ball and Desi Arnez, Joan Rivers and Abe Vigoda, of the Barney Miller TV series.
Why do the stars come and what do they eat?
“Let’s face it, we are one of the few surviving Jewish delicatessens in this city and the food here is the real thing,” said Landi. “They’re much like everyone else. They like a great pastrami sandwich, one of our specialties, or the corned beef, and even a kosher hot dog.”
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