Pastrami King Loses Lease After 2 Decades, But Owner Vows To Find New Location

MERRICK, NY — After 20 years of mouthwatering Matzo Balls and all of the delectable deli favorites, Pastrami King shut its Merrick Road doors for good last week.

Owner Joe Yamali's lease expired and a new landlord made an offer that he could refuse.

"He doesn't want to extend the lease unless I pay an exorbitant rent," Yamali told Patch.

Instead, Yamali is putting his focus on finding a new location in close proximity to his popular Merrick eatery.

"I haven't had much success yet," he said. "But I'll eventually find something."

Frank Szalada, of Bellmore, certainly hopes that happens soon.

"It was one of the fall back, Friday night date with wife, place to go."

Yamali took over Pastrami King in 2006 after his father died.

By the time Friday's last day of business rolled around, it was take-out only.

"All my customers have been here, the last two days. I can't believe it, coming in just to visit me," Yamali said. "It was a very emotional day."

With the kosher-style deli staples, including knishes and, obviously, pastrami, Yamali knows if you open it, people will come.

He may get some help from his brother Butch, who owns several large-scale catering hall/restaurants, such as the Milleridge Inn, Coral House and Peter's Clam Bar.

"For the Jewish holidays, I might do a ghost kitchen at one of my brother's places, just to get packages because so many people have asked me about that," he said.

As for the chances of welcoming his regulars back, "Yes, 100%. This is a great name, great brand," he said. "As soon as I find the spot."