Beloved Menlo Park Deli Announces Closure After 45 Years of Service

After more than four decades, Lutticken’s Deli and its adjoining After 5 restaurant are slated to close on September 30, according to general manager Judy Congdon. The chain, which operates locations in Menlo Park, Stanford University and on Sand Hill Road, has struggled to regain pre-pandemic earnings, leading to the decision. Patrons have enjoyed a mix of coffee, sandwiches—including the Hawaiian with ham, Swiss cheese and pineapple salsa—and a bar offering beer, wine, karaoke and live performances.

The deli, a 2024 recipient of the California Senate District 13 Small Business of the Year award, previously hosted a visit from Al Gore during his presidential campaign. Its shutdown mirrors recent closures of Oakland’s Home of Chicken and Waffles and the historic Hank & Frank Bicycles shop.