From mountains of crisp latkes to platters of slow-braised brisket, plenty of spots featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives know how to celebrate the Festival of Lights. Whether planning an eight-night eating tour or wanting ideas for your holiday table, these Jewish-leaning delicatessens and cafes, vetted by Guy Fieri’s crew, offer the flavors and traditions that make Hanukkah shine.
1. Shapiro’s Delicatessen — Indianapolis, IN
Family-run since 1905, Shapiro’s has the old-world charm and the well-seasoned griddles to turn out latkes that crunch at the edges and stay fluffy inside. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives highlighted the deli’s commitment to time-honored prep, from hand-grated potatoes to in-house pickles. Stop in during Hanukkah, and you’ll hear plenty of “Chag Sameach” greetings while regulars tuck into brisket platters and rye bread that is still warm from the oven.
2. Manny’s Deli — Chicago, IL
Manny’s Deli has been carving brisket since 1942, and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives captured the cafeteria line in all its steamy glory. The meat’s deep mahogany color and fork-tender bite make it a natural centerpiece for a Hanukkah feast. Add Manny’s Deli matzo ball soup and kugel; you have the ultimate Midwest answer to Grandma’s holiday spread.
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3. Slyman’s Deli — Cleveland, OH
Slyman’s Deli might be famous for skyscraper sandwiches, but its scratch cooking fits right into the spirit of Hanukkah comfort food. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives viewers watched Guy marvel at the sheer volume of brisket steaming on the flattop. Order a side of latkes and you’ll taste why Cleveland locals happily brave lake-effect snow for a seat at this counter.
4. The Bagel Deli & Restaurant — Denver, CO
Featured in a Rocky Mountain episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, The Bagel Deli balances classic Ashkenazi recipes with Colorado hospitality. Their sufganiyot—pillowy doughnuts piped full of sweet berry jam—sell out fast once the menorah candles start to glow. Pair one with a cup of steaming coffee and admire the snow-capped Front Range from the window.
5. Caplansky’s Deli — Toronto, ON
Caplansky’s Deli brings a taste of Toronto’s vibrant Jewish scene to the Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives roster. The show spotlighted owner Zane Caplansky’s from-scratch ethos, which you’ll taste in every spoonful of his fluffy-yet-dense matzo balls. During Hanukkah, the kitchen turns out platters of latkes fried in schmaltz—an aromatic throwback to Old-World kitchens.
6. Stein’s Deli — New Orleans, LA
Deep in the Garden District, Stein’s Deli merges Jewish deli tradition with Crescent City flair—a combo that earned it a spot on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Rugelach and babka share shelf space with muffuletta fixings, making this a one-stop shop for Hanukkah sweets and everyday sandwiches. The laid-back vibe means you can linger over coffee, pastry crumbs, and good conversation.
7. Izzy’s World’s Greatest Reubens — Cincinnati, OH
Izzy’s World’s Greatest Reubens has been frying potato pancakes alongside its namesake Reuben since 1901, an achievement that Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives quickly celebrated. The pancakes arrive hot, crisp, and ready for a smear of applesauce—exactly the flavor profile Hanukkah revelers seek. Order a few to share, then debate whether the Midwest or East Coast does deli best.