Lunchbox Deli In Bloomfield Closing: 'We Have Been Truly Blessed'

BLOOMFIELD, NJ -- A deli in Bloomfield that has gained a popular reputation among local students has been sold and will be closing, its owners reported Monday.

Anthony's Cheesecake & Restaurant posted a message about the sale of the Lunchbox Deli on social media:

"It’s going to be an emotional week for us as we close the doors to our Lunchbox Deli after 26 years. We want to thank all the Bloomfield High School students, faculty, staff, and community for all your amazing support over the years. We have been truly blessed. It’s going to be a sad day as we close up this week and hope to see you all at Anthony's Cheesecake. We want to wish the owners of Manouche much success with taking over the Lunchbox. I have lots of photos from the past two decades and will post them on our pages on IG and FB @anthonyscheesecake. We thank you all. John & Anthony."

The announcement stunned some of the deli's fans.

"When is the last day you're open," one person commented. "I need to get your brownies one last time."

The answer? Saturday, its owners replied.

"This just made me so sad!" another person wrote. "The Lunchbox has been such a big part of the community for so long. From running fundraisers for the tennis team, to providing ASP drama kids with our daily cheese steak or Waldorf salad before practice. I can't imagine this location belonging to anyone else. Thank you for all of the support you have always (and continue to) offer. Here's to more time to relax. You both deserve it."

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