We’re closing out the year with a final Mom & Pop series that’s utterly delicious. We sat down with Mitch’s Downtown, a new bagel and deli shop brought to us by father-son duo Mitch and Adam Shidlofsky. Mitch has owned several shops throughout his 30 years in the bagel biz, including Mitch’s Westside Bagels in Weston, which he’s operated since 2002. During the pandemic, Adam left his corporate job in NYC and moved back home to South Florida. Among all of last year’s unknowns, Adam was focused on one thing–to learn all he could about bagels from his dad and partner with him on a new location. What can we expect from this new Fort Lauderdale shop? Let’s find out.
How will this shop pay tribute to a classic NYC deli while also honoring its new downtown environment?
This restaurant is the definition of combining old school with new school. We carry all your classic New York delicacies, including Carnegie Deli corned beef, pastrami, knishes, pickles, and black and whites. Additionally, we make all of our bagels, rye bread, cream cheese, tuna salad, egg salad, etc. in house. Mix this with your avocado toasts, Nutella stuffed French toasts, huge green salads, coconut water, cold brew, flavored iced coffee, etc. and you are catering to a wide variety of people that happen to reside in the downtown area.
What makes Mitch’s Downtown unique?
We have a family-first vibe, and want you to feel welcomed from the moment you step through our doors. My dad and I have combined two different generations into one concept to make something that has never been done before. We want there to be something on the menu for everyone with the WOW factor and we want them to enjoy it in a fun environment.
How did the partnership with Carnegie Deli happen?
I was approached by their local distributor. When I tasted their food, I was sold. Consistency and delivering the best possible product are something we live by. Having Carnegie gives us that with their products and gives brand recognition to our guests. We pride ourselves on great food and quality service and the fit has been there since day one.
Mitch, what is Adam now bringing to the table as your partner?
Adam has a vision for today’s day and time. He is smart, personable, motivated and a hard worker. I have relationships with our vendors, some for over 25 years. Adam has injected many things into our business: technology, social media, publicity, and a culture that he is creating for today’s world. The food looks amazing, the atmosphere has a vibe… so as a guest you get the benefit of ease of ordering with our technology and enjoy superb food in a modern-day environment.
Mitch’s Downtown, 540 N Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, http://www.mitchsdowntown.com/
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