I've been working at Katz's Deli since I was 7. I hope my kids will join the family business.

Jake Dell started working at Katz's Deli when he was 7.

Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for NYCWFF Jake Dell grew up at Katz's Delicatessen, which his family took over in 1988.

He planned to become a doctor before deciding to join the family business.

Now he runs the iconic NYC deli and hopes one of his children will take over someday.

This interview is based on a conversation with Jake Dell, 39, the owner of Katz's Delicatessen in New York City.

It has been edited for length and clarity.

I've been coming to Katz's Delicatessen since before I could crawl.

My grandfather, father, and uncle took over the deli in 1988, 100 years after it was originally established.

My dad would often be here six or seven days a week, so I would come down here all the time.

I remember being around 7 and working at the soda station .

I had my 6th birthday at Katz's.

We invited my whole first-grade class and had a table at the back.

My parents had organized a magician.

We ate hot dogs and had a great time.