Fossati's Delicatessen
Oldest deli in Texas, established 1882 in Victoria.
via Wikipedia: Fossati's Delicatessen · see source
Fossati's Delicatessen, located in Victoria, Texas, is the oldest deli in Texas and one of the oldest restaurants in the United States. It was opened in 1882 by Italian immigrant Fraschio ("Frank") Napoleon Fossati. The current building was constructed in 1895, after the deli had moved several times—at one point having been on every corner of the square in downtown Victoria. Fossati's was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 20, 1991. After over 140 years, it is still owned and operated by the same family.
Quick Facts
- Location
- 302 S. Main; Victoria, Texas
- Area
- less than one acre
- Built
- 1900
- Architecture
- Vernacular commercial
- Added
- May 20, 1991
Facts from the source article.
Background
Fossati's Delicatessen has been a gathering place for Victoria's citizens since its founding. Over the years, it has handled imported foods, groceries, and feed. The deli has also hosted many famous musicians, including country music legend Willie Nelson. It is often used for political functions—most recently, Texas Governor Rick Perry held a campaign stop in Victoria on August 25, 2010. The current building, constructed in 1895, features double front doors with multi-light transoms. Outside, metal rings still remain where men used to tie up their horses and come in for a drink. Inside the back room, known as the Frank Napoleon room, a giant bookcase holds hundreds of cookbooks, many out of print for 50+ years. A trench-like area just above the floor surrounds the bar, where men used to spit tobacco.
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