How it started

Everyone has a story that molds them into who they are today. This is the story of one woman that had the strength and courage to endure when life threw her obstacles. That woman is our mother, Geulah, our inspiration and the glue that kept our family together.

Geulah was a teacher in her community when her husband was diagnosed with cancer in 1980. Her husband, chef David von Perlstein's dream was to own a warm, family-style restaurant. He opened Cafe International, but quickly became too sick to run it. Geulah left her career to help run the family restaurant. In 1983, David lost his battle to cancer.

In spite of financial hardship, the restaurant remained open for 20 years due to Geulah's hard work ethic and warm, giving approach. Geulah also raised and cared for her three children while still being active in her community. She now owns a smaller deli, Geulah's Cafe, where people share good food and have created many fond memories.