June 7, 2025 NEW YORK, NY – Jacob's Pickles, a popular Southern-style eatery on the Upper West Side, was temporarily closed this week by the Department of Health (DOH) after inspectors uncovered a troubling array of health code violations, including evidence of rats and roaches. The abrupt shutdown, which took effect Wednesday, has left patrons wondering when, or if, the beloved restaurant will reopen its doors.

Located at 509 Amsterdam Avenue, between 84th and 85th Streets, Jacob's Pickles was cited for multiple offenses. Beyond the significant pest issues, the DOH report also flagged an "improper, inadequate, or unapproved" sewage disposal system. Furthermore, inspectors noted that the restaurant allegedly failed to adequately protect "food, supplies, or equipment" from potential contamination.

In a statement released shortly after the closure, Jacob's Pickles acknowledged the situation, expressing gratitude for the issues being brought to their attention. The restaurant attributed the problems to "underlying structural issues that contributed to unforeseen facility maintenance challenges." They assured the public that the "safety of our guests and staff is always our top priority" and pledged not to reopen until "every concern is resolved in full compliance with NYC Health Code standards." While their initial statement optimistically projected a Monday reopening, their website has since been updated to state they are "closed for renovations" and will "open in a few days."

This isn't the first time Jacob's Pickles has faced scrutiny from the DOH. The restaurant has maintained a C rating with the Department of Health since December, indicating a history of less-than-stellar inspection results.

Interestingly, this closure comes on the heels of owner Jacob Hadjigeorgis's May 2024 announcement of plans to relocate Jacob's Pickles to a new address at 688 Columbus Avenue, between 93rd and 94th Streets. Following the move, Hadjigeorgis intends to transform the current Amsterdam Avenue location into a new bar concept called Velvet Cowboy.

The question remains: Will Jacob's Pickles successfully navigate these significant health hurdles and regain the trust of its loyal Upper West Side clientele, especially with a potential relocation already on the horizon? Only time, and thorough DOH inspections, will tell.