You don’t have to hop a flight to Manhattan to get New York catering for your event this holiday season. Save yourself some trouble and head instead to the locally owned Manny Hattan’s. I spoke with Aaron Mayers, the owner of Manny Hattan’s, to find out more about their food, their catering, and how this Big Apple boy ended up here in Texas.

EADA: First off, tell me about your philosophy concerning the food at Manny Hattan’s.
AM: When we opened, we did a sickening number of tastings. We decided that authenticity was the only option for us. Alongside that, our quality was the most important factor in picking items. For example, we looked at numerous precooked deli meats. None were as good or as fresh as making our own, in-house. So, four and a half years later, we’re still roasting our own meats fresh, every day.

EADA: Why does Manny Hattan’s bring some products directly from New York?
AM: In keeping with our goal of staying authentic, there were just some things essential for a New York deli that you could’t get anywhere other than New York. For example, our cheesecake is from Carnegie Deli, and our bagels come from H&H Bagel. There are some things that you cannot imitate, and it just makes for a more authentic product.

EADA: So, why a New York Deli concept?
AM: We’re from New York and had lived here in Texas for 13 years. Not only did we miss the food, but we missed the delis that were a part of our lives. In a neighborhood deli in NY, you know everyone. The deli brings the food together for the family life events. By that, I mean weddings, anniversaries, funerals... the list goes on. It’s just part of the culture. We want to be that family life event place for Austin. And we’re doing just that here, and catering is a big part of that.

EADA: Tell us a little more about your catering program.
AM: Our quality is unsurpassed and consistent. We also have great offerings for any occasion. On a daily basis, we do many boxed lunches and sandwich trays. We’ll get the food on time, with the highest quality, and our price includes plates, condiments, utensils, and set-up. We like to take away any effort for whoever is ordering.

EADA: So, aside from the sandwich trays and boxed lunches, what other options are there for those who might be vegetarians or watching their weight, especially after the holidays?
AM: What’s so great about our catering is that we do have something for everyone. We have a Light Sandwich Tray, The Big Salad and The Don’t Bawk at the Chicken Breast Sandwich, that are all items that address those trying to maintain healthy eating lifestyles. If you have a special request, please let us know and we can see what we can put together to accommodate the request.

EADA: Lastly, what about desserts?
AM: We cater all sorts of desserts. We have cheesecake from Carnegie Deli, flown into Austin so that we can enjoy it here. You haven’t had cheesecake until you’ve had it from Carnegie Deli. Also, for catering and the holidays, we have New York’s famous black and white cookies and rugalash. Both of those are made from scratch with recipes from the “Queen of the Kitchen,” Mrs. Manny Hattan. The cheesecakes also make great gifts for your coworkers, or are great to bring to an office party. So, come on in and enjoy a slice, and take a pie home with you.

QUICK INFO - MANNY HATTAN’S
Location: 9503 Research Blvd. #650
Phone: 512.794.0088
Type: Deli + Restaurant
Parking: Shared Lot
Kid Friendly: Yes
Suggested Order: Carnegie Deli Cheesecake