In 1977 Michael Sobelman had the brilliant idea to open Michael’s Deli in Marblehead, Massachusetts. Michael had one goal in mind: to make the freshest, most delicious traditional deli sandwiches just the way you like them. His success was immediate. People flocked to taste his outstanding homemade corned beef, pastrami, roast beef, brisket and salads. In 2002, Michael brought his award winning deli to Harvard Street in Brookline.

After 35 years in the deli business, Michael has passed on the reins of his beloved deli to Steven Peljovich, who has been in the restaurant biz for the last 20 years. Michael, rumor has it, is planning on spending a lot of time relaxing on a tropical island. Can you get good corned beef there?

So how did Michael meet Steven?

As the story goes (and you know there’s a story) it was December of 2011 and Steven’s father-in-law was at Michael’s Deli just as he had been every Saturday morning for the previous 6 years. Steven was, at the same time, considering a job change that would allow him to do what he loves best: delight customers AND spend more time with his family. Now, like regulars are prone to do, Steven’s father-in-law started kibitzing with Michael. He said to him, “You look tired.” But what Michael heard was, “Are you ready to retire?” Michael responded immediately: “Why? Do you know somebody who wants to own a deli?” It was beshert (destiny) and the rest, as they say, is history.

Today, Steven is committed to building upon the foundation that has been laid over the past 35 years by Michael. Michael’s Deli continues to make the most delicious food and offers diners – whether taking out or eating in – a friendly, “our place is your place” atmosphere where everyone is welcome. Steven hopes you’ll stop by soon and say hello.

Oh… and if it’s Saturday… be sure to say “hi” to his father-in-law as well.