BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. (CelebrityAccess) In one of the more telegraphed of announcements, the Mendelson family, which owns Nate’n Al Delicatessen in Beverly Hills, has announced it has sold its longtime business to Shelli and Irving Azoff.
“As a cornerstone of Beverly Hills, it has been with great pleasure and pride that we have been a part of your family’s meals, holidays, celebrations, and businesses for four generations,” Mark Mendelson, former co-owner of the delicatessen, said in a statement. “We thank our wonderful customers – your loyalty to Nate’n Al has been a great joy.”
“Over the years, many potential buyers have expressed interest in us. Finding the right owners that value our staff, some whom have been with us for 30-42 years, as much as our brand was paramount and essential. The Azoffs have been loyal customers for over 30 years and have a love and passion for Nate’n Al and our food. My brother David and I are proud to have them carry on our grandparents’ legacy of excellent service, serving only the finest delicatessen food.”
None of this should come as a shock. The Hollywood Reporter announced the sale Jan. 11, reporting that the buyers included the Azoffs, UTA’s Jay Sures, real estate guru Mike Meldman, NBCUniversal executive Jeff Shell, nightlife industry entrepreneur Rande Gerber and his wife, Cindy Crawford. The deal was expected to close April 1.
At the time, though, Shelli Azoff declined to comment.
The community of Beverly Hills was in a tizzy last year when the Mendelsons said they were selling the 73-year-old Jewish deli. A city councilmember attempted to grant it landmark status, and others speculated it would be sold to take advantage of its $25 million real estate value.
The site has long been a favorite breakfast and lunch spot for dealmakers. Larry King used to eat at the deli almost daily and there are many fans among the area’s agencies and management companies.
One real estate source heard a rumor that the Azoffs were considering moving the deli, which was considered sacrilege, according to THR. The Azoffs plan to keep Nate’n Al Deli in Beverly Hills, according to today’s press release “bringing with them the staff, legendary brand, and their delicious recipes,” adding, “The Mendelsons will help with the ownership transition, to advise on the business’ operation.”
Meanwhile, in February, Irving Azoff retweeted the “scoop” that he may have concluded a deal to buy the area’s Apple Pan.
Hey @CurbedLA and @latimes this is THE biggest scoop of the day, (unless of course @RamsNFL win),.
Has @irvingazoff concluded his deal and actually purchased The Apple Pan? My sources say this is a done deal. Hickory Burgers Forever. Don’t change a thing – please.— Sam Rubin (@SamOnTV) February 3, 2019
