WORCESTER, MA — A longtime deli in Worcester is set to begin its next chapter under new ownership after more than half a century in business.
Pickle Barrel Deli and Restaurant, a longtime Pleasant Street staple, could soon have new owners following a recent licensing approval. The eatery opened in 1975.
Ali Khan and Muhammed Warasat appeared before the Worcester License Commission on Apr. 16 seeking a Common Victualer license to operate the business under EMAAN LLC, doing business as Pickle Barrel Deli.
The restaurant, located at 305 Pleasant St., has been a steady fixture in Worcester’s dining scene for decades, serving breakfast and lunch to generations of local customers.
See More Worcester Restaurant News:
The current owners, Gus and John Giannakis, opened the establishment more than 50 years ago. In 2024, Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis presented the owners with a citation in recognition of five decades in business.
"So honored to present my friends, Gus & John Giannakis, a citation CELEBRATING the 50th Anniversary of Pickle Barrel Restaurant & Deli," Sheriff Evangelidis wrote in a social media post. "These 2 represent the finest in commitment to family, work, and to the community."
The License Commission unanimously approved the ownership transfer. Khan and Warasat told officials that they do not expect major changes to the business and emphasized that they both have prior restaurant experience.
The restaurant will open at 7 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, 6 a.m. on Monday through Friday. It will close at 3 p.m. every day, according to the License Commission agenda.
It is not yet clear when the ownership transition will officially take place. Patch has reached out to the Pickle Barrel for additional comment but has not yet received a response.
Are you a local business owner? Post a business listing on Patch! It’s an easy way to reach a local audience and connect with customers close to home. Go here to get started today.
See Also:
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Worcester, MA Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.