Fossati's Delicatessen facts for kids
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Fossati's
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Fossati's Delicatessen
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 Fossati's
Location in Texas
Fossati's
Location in the United States
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| Location | 302 S. Main, Victoria, Texas |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1900 |
| Architectural style | Vernacular commercial |
| MPS | Victoria MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 91000578 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | May 20, 1991 |
Fossati's Delicatessen is a super old deli in Texas. It's actually the oldest deli in the whole state! It's also one of the oldest restaurants in the entire United States.
This special place is located in Victoria, Texas. It first opened its doors way back in 1882. An Italian immigrant named Fraschio ("Frank") Napoleon Fossati started it. Fossati's is so important that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 20, 1991. Guess what? After more than 130 years, the same family still owns and runs Fossati's!
Contents
Welcome to Fossati's Deli!
Frank Fossati had the current building built in 1895. He moved the deli there from another spot downtown. Fossati's had actually moved around a few times before. At one point, it had been on every corner of the main square in downtown Victoria!
What Makes the Building Special?
The building today has cool double front doors. Above the doors, there are special windows called multi-light transoms. These let extra light into the deli.
More Than Just a Deli
Over the years, Fossati's has sold all sorts of things. They've had imported foods, groceries, and even animal feed. It's always been a really important meeting spot for people in Victoria.
Famous Visitors and Events
Many famous musicians have played at the deli. This includes the country music legend Willie Nelson! The deli is also often used for political events. For example, Texas Governor Rick Perry held a campaign stop there on August 25, 2010.
A Look Inside Fossati's
In the back room of the deli, there's a special area called the Frank Napoleon room. It has a giant bookcase filled with hundreds of cookbooks. Many of these books are really old and have been out of print for over 50 years!
Unique Features
Inside, near the bar, there's a trench-like area just above the floor. This is where men used to spit tobacco a long time ago. Outside the building, you can still see metal rings. These rings were used by men to tie up their horses when they came in for a drink.
Images for kids
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Fossati's Interior.
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The historic bar at Fossati's.
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Fossati's Historical Marker.
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Interior of Fossati's Deli.
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Some of the grandchildren of Fossati's founder Frank Napoleon Fossati (many of whom currently run the deli), and their spouses.
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Bar at Fossati's Deli.
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Cookbooks at Fossati's Deli.
