Jason's Deli

The success story of one of the most famous restaurant chains in the USA began right here, in the city of Beaumont. The historic Jason's Deli building on Gateway Street is more than just an eatery; it's the very place where the brand's first restaurant opened in 1976. Today, it stands as a living monument to a family business, preserving an authentic atmosphere and a commitment to healthy eating traditions.

The establishment specializes in the fast-casual format, offering visitors a menu of fresh sandwiches, soups, and salads. Jason's Deli gained fame as one of the first chains to completely eliminate trans fats, artificial colors, and flavors, focusing instead on natural ingredients and organic products.

For tourists, the building's status as a historic site is particularly significant. Although the chain has grown to hundreds of locations nationwide, the flagship restaurant in Beaumont remains a favorite meeting place, where every guest receives a pleasant bonus in the form of free ice cream. It is an ideal stop for those looking to combine a touch of American business history with a high-quality lunch.

To book a table for a large group or to inquire about specific menu items, you can use the official contact details. The staff is always happy to help guests find their way around the historic building and answer questions about current promotions. Below is detailed contact information for this iconic location.

The main reason people visit Jason's Deli is for the culinary experience. Be sure to try the signature Po'boys sandwiches or the legendary New Orleans-style Muffaletta. Those looking for a hearty meal will love "Reuben THE Great"—a generous portion of hot corned beef or pastrami with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese on fresh rye bread.

The garden salad bar deserves special attention. It is a real find for health-conscious diners, offering an unlimited selection of fresh vegetables, organic toppings, seeds, cheeses, and even mini-muffins. Many visitors come specifically for the chance to create their own perfect mix from dozens of ingredients.

Don't forget to save room for dessert. For over 30 years, a kind tradition of the establishment has been the station with free soft-serve ice cream in waffle cones—a delightful touch loved by children and adults alike. The atmosphere here is friendly and family-oriented, making the restaurant a great place to relax after a walk around town.

The historic Jason's Deli building is located in the heart of Beaumont at 112 Gateway. As the starting point for the entire chain, it is easily found in the central part of the city. If you are traveling by car from Houston, the trip via I-10 E takes about an hour (approximately 70 miles).

For those arriving at Beaumont Municipal Airport (BMT), the most convenient way to reach the restaurant is by taxi or rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. The trip will take only 10–15 minutes. The city's public transportation system is modest, so personal vehicles or taxis remain the preferred options for tourists.

If your hotel is located downtown, you can easily walk to the establishment while taking in the architecture of the old city. Convenient parking is provided next to the restaurant, making it very accessible for those traveling by car.

The history of this place began on November 30, 1976, when Joe Tortorice Jr. and his partners opened the first establishment under the name Jason's Deli. The chain was named after the founder's eldest son, Jay. Interestingly, the passion for culinary arts was rooted in the Tortorice family as early as 1895, when his great-grandfather, who immigrated from Sicily, opened his first sandwich shop in Texas.

Joe Tortorice Jr. himself had a background unusual for a restaurateur: he served as an officer in the US Air Force and worked as a professional accountant. In the early years of the business, the whole family worked seven days a week, balancing their primary duties with the development of the restaurant. Their persistence paid off: by the late 1980s, the brand began active franchise expansion, starting its journey from Arizona.

Today, the chain has nearly 300 locations across dozens of states, but the building at 112 Gateway St. in Beaumont remains a symbol of commitment to tradition. Despite its massive success and status as one of the most profitable small chains in the country, the original location has preserved the same atmosphere of family hospitality that started it all over forty years ago.

A standard visit to Jason's Deli usually takes about 45–60 minutes. This is enough time to browse the menu at your leisure, place your order, and enjoy your meal. If you plan to visit the famous salad bar multiple times or spend time over dessert with free ice cream, it is worth setting aside about 1.5 hours.

The establishment is very popular during lunch hours, so the wait time for orders may increase slightly. However, the fast-casual format implies quick service, making this an ideal spot for a quality meal during a busy day of sightseeing.

The establishment welcomes guests daily, offering a convenient schedule for everything from early breakfasts to late dinners. Please note that the restaurant closes slightly earlier on Sundays compared to other days of the week.

Current operating hours:

• Monday – Friday: 07:30 – 21:00
• Saturday: 08:30 – 21:00
• Sunday: 08:30 – 18:00

Taking a stroll around the area after visiting the historic Jason's Deli building is a great way to get to know Beaumont better. Within walking distance, you will find other dining spots as well as interesting museum spaces that allow you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of old Texas.

It is especially recommended to look out for historic mansions and cultural centers that highlight the unique character of this region. Exploring the city center will provide you with many photo opportunities against the backdrop of vintage architecture and charming streets.