It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Harold Jaffe, the beloved owner of THE Harold’s Deli in Edison, New Jersey. Harold, who passed away on March 5, 2025, at the age of 82, leaves behind an enduring legacy in the world of food and deli culture. Known for his larger-than-life sandwiches and infectious passion for food, Harold became a New Jersey icon, with his deli becoming a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Harold’s love for food, especially sandwiches, was matched only by his enthusiasm for bringing people together around a good meal. His restaurant, THE Harold’s Deli, was not just a place to eat; it was an experience. Harold’s signature oversized pastrami sandwiches, often referred to as “mountains of meat,” became legendary. He often described his creations with the saying, “You eat with your eyes,” emphasizing the immense size and delightful indulgence of every sandwich. The massive portions and mouthwatering quality were simply part of the charm that made THE Harold’s Deli a household name.
Before founding THE Harold’s Deli, Harold had a long and varied career in the food industry. He grew up in New Jersey and served four years in the United States Marines, which played a formative role in shaping his work ethic and discipline. After his time in the military, Harold pursued his passion for food entrepreneurship, opening his first sandwich shop in East Orange, New Jersey, which is still in operation today. His commitment to the craft of sandwich-making was clear early on, and his hard work would eventually lead him to open several other locations, including one in Lawrenceville. However, it was THE Harold’s Deli in Edison that would go on to become his crowning achievement.
Harold’s success in the deli business was also influenced by his time working at the iconic Carnegie Deli in New York City. The experience of working at one of the most famous delis in the world provided him with invaluable insights and a deep understanding of what it takes to run a successful business in the highly competitive food industry. Harold’s time at the Carnegie Deli exposed him to the fine details of deli culture, from quality meat selection to creating an authentic atmosphere. These lessons shaped the future of THE Harold’s Deli, which would become a mainstay in the New Jersey food 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.
Throughout his career, Harold remained committed to delivering the best deli experience possible, and his work ethic and devotion to excellence have set the standard for future generations of deli owners and food lovers. His commitment to his craft and his ability to connect with people through food is something that will continue to inspire. The legacy of THE Harold’s Deli will be passed down not just through recipes but through the values of hospitality, kindness, and passion for good food.
As we remember Harold Jaffe, we also celebrate the impact he had on those around him. His warmth, generosity, and love for his work will never be forgotten. For those who had the pleasure of eating at THE Harold’s Deli, Harold’s legacy will continue to live on every time someone takes a bite of one of his famous sandwiches. And for those who knew him personally, Harold’s memory will remain forever in their hearts, as the man who made every meal feel like a special occasion.
Harold Jaffe will be missed by the countless people whose lives he touched. His passion for food, his work ethic, and his love for the deli business made him a beloved figure in New Jersey, and his contributions to the food world will be remembered for years to come. As we say goodbye to Harold, we also thank him for the memories, the laughter, and the delicious meals he provided. May he rest in peace, knowing that his impact will continue to be felt in the hearts of all who had the privilege of enjoying the fruits of his labor.
