Ben's Deli is really truly ready to reopen SOON

Photos and reporting by Stacie Joy 

Temp signage went up this week at Ben's Deli, the closed-for-renovations market at 32 Avenue B between Second Street and Third Street. 

Owner Sammy Ksem (pictured above left with Sam) said a new permanent sign is coming. However, they want to make sure the new one is correct. In August, the city made Sammy remove the previously new sign, saying it was too large. The city also hit him with a $6,000 fine. 

Sammy said he is frustrated with how long the renovations have dragged on at the shop. (They closed in September 2023.)

However, Ben's is ready to reopen ANY DAY NOW...

The space includes a revamped deli counter with, among other items, an all-day breakfast...

There's also a party in the works to welcome the neighborhood back. 

Meanwhile, you can still expect to see previous longtime (40-plus years!) owner Ben Gibran and his family at the shop. Ben sold the business to his cousin Sammy in early 2023 and has remained a presence here... chain smoking in his van outside while watching Snakes of Africa videos on YouTube.