Zabar's Is Getting Its Own Holiday

UPPER WEST SIDE, NY — Challahlujah!

After more than 90 years of helping New Yorkers celebrate high holidays, Thanksgivings, and bagel brunches, Zabar's — the Upper West Side's gourmet grocery store — is finally getting a holiday of its own.

The city has officially declared Feb. 6, 2025, as Zabar’s Appreciation Day, to celebrate its 90th year in business, and honor its significant contributions to New York City — culinary and otherwise.

This Thursday at 1 p.m. New York State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, who represents much of Manhattan's west side, will present Zabar's owners with an official proclamation announcing the addition of Zabar's Appreciation Day to the district.

“I can’t think of an institution more synonymous with the Upper West Side than Zabar’s," Hoylman-Sigal told Patch.

"Their growth from a small, family-owned shop to an internationally recognized brand, sought out by tourists and residents alike, is an inspiration to all New Yorkers."

Zabar's was opened by Louis and Lillian Zabar in a 22-foot-wide shop in 1934 with a simple mission: To become the city's go-to spot for coffee and smoked fish.

In the past 90 years, a lot has changed about the Upper West Side, but the family-owned business — with its orange-lettered signs, heaps of delectable cheeses and bagels, and expertly sliced salmon — has always held its ground at Broadway and West 80th Street.

And today, it's nothing short of an institution.

It already has its own viral merch and a Banksy, so a city holiday makes sense as the next logical step for the legendary supermarket.

“For nearly a century, Zabar’s has been more than just a store — it’s become a beloved New York City institution where food, tradition and community come together,” David Zabar, Louis and Lillian's great-grandson, said. "We are grateful to Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal for celebrating 90 years of Zabar’s and the joy our family business has brought to our community, and we look forward to building upon this legacy for many years to come."

The iconic store is also celebrating National Bagel and Lox Day this Sunday, with special deals on their bagels and lox, the store's owners said.

Zabar’s is located at 2245 Broadway.

For questions and tips, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.