Dean & DeLuca

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Dean & DeLuca is an American chain of upscale grocery stores. Founded in SoHo, Manhattan in 1977 by Joel Dean, Giorgio DeLuca, and Jack Ceglic, the company is known for its high-quality gourmet foods and specialty items.

History

Dean & DeLuca was established in September 1977 in the SoHo district of New York City. The founders, Joel Dean and Giorgio DeLuca, were inspired by the European markets and aimed to bring a similar experience to the United States. The original store was designed by Jack Ceglic and quickly became a popular destination for food enthusiasts.

Products

Dean & DeLuca offers a wide range of products, including:

• Cheese
• Charcuterie
• Coffee
• Tea
• Baked goods
• Confectionery
• Wine
• Prepared foods

The stores are known for their curated selection of high-quality and often hard-to-find items.

Expansion

Over the years, Dean & DeLuca expanded beyond its original location in SoHo. The company opened additional stores in various locations across the United States, including Washington, D.C., Napa Valley, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Dean & DeLuca also expanded internationally, with stores in countries such as Japan, Thailand, and Singapore.

Financial Challenges

Despite its popularity, Dean & DeLuca faced financial difficulties in the late 2010s. The company struggled with debt and was forced to close several of its locations. In 2019, Dean & DeLuca filed for bankruptcy, and many of its stores were shuttered.

Legacy

Dean & DeLuca remains a well-known name in the gourmet food industry. The brand is synonymous with high-quality, artisanal products and has left a lasting impact on the way Americans shop for specialty foods.

See also

• Gourmet food
• Specialty foods
• SoHo, Manhattan
• New York City