Maurice's Deli move results in more space, offerings

ALBANY, NY: A popular deli known for its roast beef sandwiches was welcomed back to downtown Albany with a ribbon cutting ceremony today, December 17, 2021. Joining owner Keith Mahler and Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) Executive Director Georgette Steffens in celebrating Maurice’s Deli’s new 50 S Pearl Street location were Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan, County Executive Daniel P. McCoy, and Albany County Comptroller Susan Rizzo.  
 

Even after having been shut down by COVID-19, and a water main break in the former space at which his lease then ran out, Mahler said it was still an easy decision to re-open, citing the strong Maurice’s brand and customer loyalty. As just a few examples of that dedication, an announcement in July on the deli’s Facebook page was met with eager anticipation from customers, and the announcement in the same spot that the business would re-open on December 6 resulted in elation from those who’ve long waited for the return of their favorite lunch. To be able to serve more customers, Maurice's Deli is open 7:30 AM-4:00 PM Monday-Friday, one hour longer than at the previous location, and if there is enough demand, Mahler will expand hours further.  
 

The search for a new space took Mahler throughout Downtown, at one point even asking customers to weigh in on a potential location, but it was the history, parking, and installed kitchen equipment that told him he’d found the right spot at 50 S Pearl Street. Previously located just two blocks away on the same street, the new location is 1,500 square feet larger and offers more seating and space for expanded offerings that include pay by the pound soup and salad bar, fried dough, and a larger coffee selection, among other additions.    
 

Named for founder Maurice Green, who opened the original location in Schenectady with his wife Sylvia in the 1950’s, the business was purchased by Mike and Linda Sciocchetti in the 1970’s when the Greens retired. The couple expanded Maurice’s Deli, and since its opening in downtown Albany over a quarter century ago, the eatery has been a go-to for freshly prepared sandwiches and salads. Mahler, who’s worked in the restaurant industry since he was a teenager, purchased the Downtown location in 2014 and since has grown the business “by leaps and bounds by focusing on great quality, fast service, and always saying please and thank you as I was raised to do,” he said.  
 

While ownership has changed, one thing that has not is the recipe for their famous roast beef. Prepared on-site, the rotisserie cooked beef eye round has a lean, crispy exterior with juicy and tender center. Dipped in au jus and served on bread that is baked fresh daily, it is easily the most requested item at Maurice’s Deli, Mahler said, followed by turkey sandwiches and corned beef sandwiches. Freshly cooked corned beef, pastrami, turkey, and chicken breast are a staple of the New York style delicatessen, offering customers who walk through the door a feast for their senses.  
 

Maurice’s Deli Owner Keith Mahler said: “Maurice’s has long been known for our roast beef sandwiches, and for good reason, but it is my hope though that with this new location we will become a household name for all that we offer. I have always loved downtown Albany and was dedicated to keeping this business here. I saw huge potential from the first time I visited this space, and it is incredible to finally welcome people back after all of the hard work. Thank you to my existing customers for all of your support, and I am excited to welcome those new to Maurice’s through our doors for a one-of-a-kind meal.”  
 

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said: “Maurice’s Deli has been a staple in downtown Albany for decades and it is wonderful that owner Keith Mahler was dedicated to keeping Maurice’s in downtown Albany and able to move to a location that allows for expanded offerings and more dining space. After a plethora of difficulties arose between COVID and other issues, I am delighted to have this steadfast breakfast and lunch option available to the many workers that are back to their Downtown offices and new occupants of the recently opened residences Downtown. I look forward to Maurice’s welcoming back their regulars and adding new patrons to their list of regulars.”    
 

Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said: “Maurice’s Deli has been a part of the fabric of the downtown Albany community for decades, and I couldn’t be more excited to see this staple reemerge from the pandemic in their new location, right across the street from the county-owned MVP Arena. These one-of-a-kind businesses are the backbone of Albany County’s economy and are what make it such a great place to live and work. And while it’s a new location, I know customers can rely on the same great food and customer service from Keith and his team. Wishing them all the best into the future.” 
 

Downtown Albany BID Executive Director Georgette Steffens said: “We are so grateful for Keith’s strong dedication to Downtown. After a tumultuous time, it speaks volumes that he was dedicated to both reopening and his valued customers, who are so excited that he is here serving food again. With growing residential in our District and employees returning to the office, we see great things for Maurice’s future, and invite you to come and experience their incredible food all over again.”  
 

Maurice’s Deli, located at 50 S Pearl Street, is open Monday-Friday 7:30 AM-4:00 PM. For more information, visit mauricesdeli.com or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/Mauricesdelicandsanwiches. 

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