New York’s Deli changes owners and name

A landmark business in Coshocton has changed hands. Jim and Linda Metz sold New York’s Deli and Beverage to Steve and Cathy Philabaum. The business will now be known as MJ’s Deli and Beverage.

“The opportunity to purchase the deli presented itself and we jumped all over it,” Steve said. “Cathy and I have talked numerous times over the years about how fun it would be to own such an establishment, then it happened. It’s almost like it was meant to be.”

“We have been asked several times about the new name – MJ’s Deli and Beverage,” Cathy said. “MJ’s is a tribute to the most influential people in our lives, my grandmother MaryAnn Hunley, the “M,” and Steve’s mom, Judie Shaffer, the “J.” It means a lot to us to be able to pay homage to these two women who meant everything to us.”

Opened in 1983, Jim Metz built the New York’s Deli into a well- respected business serving Coshocton, particularly the neighborhood in close proximity to the store. “Jim loves this place” Steve said. “He built it from the ground up and it was important to him that a local resident bought the business.”

“Although exciting, we were somewhat nervous about such a big undertaking,” Cathy said. “But Jim and Linda have been absolutely wonderful. Frankly I cannot imagine someone selling their business and being so concerned with the success of the new owners, but that is exactly what has occurred. We could not have pulled this off without Jim’s commitment to our success.”

Jim is very thankful for the support the community gave him.

“I want to thank Coshocton for 38 years,” he said. “When I started the business I never thought I would be there that long. It was a great ride. I am thankful that someone local bought it and I am thrilled that Steve kept the same employees.”

Other than the name, not much else will change. “The staff has all stayed on board. Liz, Chan, Michael, Debbie, and Tiffany are integral to our success. They know the business and have a great relationship with the customers. We are very thankful to have such wonderful employees” Steve said.

The deli menu and product offerings will all stay intact, although there is a plan to feature periodic specials. “We are also looking at the feasibility of offering Friday lunch deliveries to local businesses,” Cathy said. “We are not ready yet, but plan to be ready soon.”

“We have a very unique business,” Steve said. “We are a one- stop-shop. No one else offers deli meats and cheeses, a large selection of wines, including Ohio and local wines, craft, domestic, and imported beer, hand-crafted subs, salads, and sandwiches, as well as groceries under one roof – we truly are unique.”

MJ’s will be open Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

MJ’s accepts cash, check, debit and all major credit cards, as well as EBT cards.

“We have the best subs and sandwiches in town and are getting geared up for the holidays with our beer and wine gift packs, as well as our fabulous party trays” Steve said. “Stop in and say hello. We will take care of you.”

Category: Business