Center City Deli Honored for Decades of Service in Atlantic City

In Atlantic City, community isn’t just a concept — it’s something you can see, feel, and even taste. For generations, Center City Deli has been a place where neighbors gather, meals are shared, and friendships are built. Recently, the City of Atlantic City celebrated this enduring spirit by honoring the deli with the Midtown Atlantic City CDC Community Impact Award.

The recognition was part of the City’s “Keep It Local” campaign, led by the Economic Development division under the Planning & Development Department, which shines a spotlight on small businesses that help define the heart and soul of the city.

More Than Just a Deli
For decades, Center City Deli has been serving hearty, no-frills meals that keep locals coming back. From breakfast classics to filling lunches and dinners, the deli has built its reputation not just on its menu, but on the way it treats every customer like family. Owner Theo Dababneh and his team know their customers by name — often their children and grandchildren, too — creating a welcoming space where food and friendship go hand in hand.

A Local Institution
The award recognized Center City Deli not only for its longevity, but also for its role in bringing neighbors together. It’s the kind of place where a simple meal can turn into a long conversation, where regulars stop by for both the food and the familiar faces.

“Our customers came on a regular basis. We knew their names, even their kids, their grandkids — we knew all of them,” said Dababneh. “We felt very honored. We got something back for giving to the people, the community — it was nice.”

Why Atlantic City Thrives
Small businesses like Center City Deli are part of what makes Atlantic City a great place to live and work. They reflect the city’s resilience, its cultural diversity, and its commitment to looking out for one another. When residents support local businesses, they’re not just buying a meal or a service — they’re investing in their own community’s future.

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A City for Neighbors
The “Keep It Local” campaign is a reminder that Atlantic City’s greatest strength lies in its people. From family-owned delis to neighborhood shops, these businesses are the threads that weave together the city’s identity.

Living in Atlantic City means having access to more than world-famous beaches and entertainment. It means being part of a community where small businesses thrive, neighbors know each other’s names, and traditions are passed down from one generation to the next.

A Place to Call Home
As Atlantic City continues to grow, its commitment to celebrating and supporting local businesses ensures that it remains not just a destination, but a place where people can build a life. Whether you’re working in the city, raising a family, or simply enjoying its vibrant neighborhoods, Atlantic City offers opportunities to connect, belong, and succeed.

The recognition of Center City Deli was more than just an award — it was a celebration of the connections, memories, and shared experiences that make Atlantic City a place where community is always on the menu..

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