What happens when you mix Denver’s budding Jewish food scene with a two-wheeled tour? The JCC Denver’s Jewish Deli Bike Tour (JDBT) is a “joyous, Jewish simcha (celebration) on wheels,” as said by Daniel Siegel, JCC Director of Engagement and Jewish Learning. Demand has grown so much that this year’s tour features two dates. Mark your calendars for September 7 and October 5. 

The September route rolls through the East Side corridor where riders will stop at Rosenberg’s, Zaidy’s, and Call Your Mother. The newly added and highly anticipated October ride will highlight the bagels of the West Side, including Odell’s and Rich Spirit. “It’s just too much flavor for one day,” Daniel exclaims. “Splitting the tour lets us honor both sides of town—and taste twice as many bagels!” 

Each stop is paired with a small nosh—think a half-knish or mini black-and-white cookie—with a story. How did Rosenberg’s revive the hand-rolled bagel? Why did the old JCC once stand at 13th and Decatur? Riders will leave stuffed with both carbs and context.  

Why a deli tour? Daniel believes Jewish identity thrives in cultural corners. “We [the Jewish people] are an ethno-religion,” he explains. “Peoplehood is as important as showing up to synagogue. The tour allows participants to connect with Jewish heritage without the obligation of a holiday or a sanctuary.” The numbers don’t lie! In 2023, the tour sold out with 60 riders in just 48 hours, which spawned a second ride with cyclists aged 9 to 79. This year, just like last, will offer a similar capacity and include a family tour. Splitting the tour into two dates also creates room for families with little ones to ride, too. “We want toddlers in bike trailers and tweens on tandems!” Daniel exclaims. “Jewish culture is multigenerational; our ride should be too.” Looking down the road, Daniel dreams of a century-style ride that hits every deli in town—roughly 15 delis and a solid 100 miles of riding. 

Since the Jewish Deli Bike Tour’s inception in 2023, the JCC Denver has appreciated the partnership with Bike Streets. It’s a pairing that is as good as lox and schmear. Bike Streets has a mission to get Denverites on bikes. Riding through the city can be intimidating solo, but Bike Streets utilizes their “low-stress bike map” and group-rides to empower people to travel on wheels. Bike Streets’ founder, Avi Stopper, will work with Daniel again to plan and lead the Jewish Deli Bike Tour(s) this year.