Family-owned deli opens on Merrick Road

The Jones Beach Delicatessen was welcomed into the community last Thursday, July 22, with a ribbon-cutting by the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce. Friends, family, Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, Legislator Steve Rhoads and Councilman Chris Carini were there to help the new eatery open with a bang.

This isn’t the first deli for Justin Heath of West Islip. He also took ownership of John Moore’s deli, located in Bellmore, back in 2016, which has been open for over 25 years.

“I like the fast-paced [feel] of the deli industry and the hours, and seeing new people all the time,” Heath said. “I’m in the industry so I wanted to continue to be in it.”

Heath grew up in Wantagh – right behind the Merrick Road deli, he said. “[The spot] sat vacant for about a year. … I knew it was always busy when it was opened and it was like a no-brainer to buy it.”

Young family-owned businesses are a staple of Wantagh, Chamber of Commerce President Cathy Powell said. “Young families come with a lot of energy and a lot of good vibes and I can see that he is going to be very successful,” she said. “I love that he incorporated the Jones Beach and Wantagh feel, especially with the seahorse in the logo.”

Wantagh is very dear to Heath, he said: “I felt like Wantagh is my home. … It was my first home, and that is why I chose to open up this spot.”

“I’m excited to see places open in Wantagh especially after the pandemic, and since restaurants were so hard hit,” Legislator Steve Rhoads said. “I’m excited to see the new editions and encourage everyone to shop local.”

Jones Beach Delicatessen is located at 3060 Merrick Rd. right next to the entrance of Wantagh Park. They are open seven days a week and offer delivery, takeout and catering. The deli offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in-between from normal deli food to acai bowls and platters.