Sami Othman, a man who grew up immersed in the family-run deli business in New York. At just 10 years old, he was learning the ropes alongside his father, and by the age of 16, Sami opened his own deli, Aziz O Deli, named in honor of his father. That first shop laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong passion for great food and hospitality.

With hard work and a natural talent for the business, Sami expanded quickly, opening several delis across Long Island. But in 1982, a trip to California changed his life. Drawn to the promise of Los Angeles, he relocated with his wife, Maria, and their young family, opening his first California deli in Pasadena.

For years, Sami had a vision to bring together the bold flavors of New York-style Hero sandwiches with the rich, soulful Po' Boys of New Orleans. In 2013, that dream became a reality with the opening of Orleans & York Deli, a place where both food cultures meet. The restaurant quickly became a Los Angeles favorite, winning accolades like TripAdvisor's #1 Cajun & Creole restaurant in 2015 and LA Magazine's award for the best Po' Boys in the city.

Now, Sami's children proudly run the family business, continuing to spread the Orleans & York legacy across Los Angeles and beyond. They take pride in honoring their father's vision, growing the business, and allowing everyone to experience the foundation Sami built from the ground up. While the next generation carries the torch, Sami's passion and love for great food remain at the heart of Orleans & York.

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