Milton’s Delicatessen, a long-standing Jewish deli and community landmark, is getting ready to transition to new ownership in Del Mar at 2660 Via De La Valle.
The ownership transfer is scheduled for early 2026, with Gilbert Frank and Salvatore Ercolano set to acquire the business, according to San Diego Magazine. The duo operates Iconic Eateries Group and currently owns several established restaurants across San Diego County. Barry Robbins, who co-founded Milton’s with David Levy in 1995, is retiring at age 70 and will remain only as a silent minority partner, while Levy retired earlier. Customers can expect the deli to maintain its menu and feel, with the incoming owners planning gradual improvements rather than significant changes.
Milton’s has operated in the Del Mar community for nearly 30 years and has become one of the area’s most recognizable restaurants. Its location near I-5 has contributed to steady traffic from locals and travelers, helping the deli build a loyal customer base over the decades. Robbins and Levy transformed the restaurant into a neighborhood fixture, emphasizing consistency, classic deli fare, and approachable service.
Frank and Ercolano have built their restaurant group around acquiring long-running eateries whose owners are nearing retirement, preserving the history and character of each business. Their portfolio includes The Butcher Shop, The Godfather Restaurant, and Studio Diner, all known for longevity and strong customer followings. Their approach at Milton’s follows the same pattern, aiming to honor the original concept while updating operations where needed.
Milton’s menu centers on traditional Jewish deli staples, including matzo ball soup, pastrami, corned beef, challah, and bagels. The restaurant is also known for its line of packaged breads, crackers, and chips, which are sold widely in grocery stores and have become a recognizable extension of the brand. These products helped broaden Milton’s reach beyond the restaurant itself.
This change in ownership comes at a time when many long-running independent restaurants are navigating succession planning, making Milton’s an example of a legacy business moving into its next chapter. Frank and Ercolano’s track record with similar restaurants suggests the Del Mar deli will remain true to its roots while gaining support for long-term stability.
