Remembering Joseph Ades, The Gentleman Peeler
More from
The Splendid Table
Ten or fifteen years ago, if you did any shopping at the Union Square farmers market in New York, or if you worked down in the financial district, or if you happened to just walk around Manhattan, you might have seen and heard a man delivering a wonderful sales pitch - for vegetable peelers. That salesman was Joe Ades, The Gentleman Peeler, an older gentleman and New York icon, hunched down on a tiny stool with buckets of vegetables charming everyone in sight while selling vegetable peelers. Ades passed away in 2009. To learn more about this incredible man, Francis Lam talked with Ades's daughter Ruth Ades-Laurent, owner of the restaurant La Ripaille.
By the way, if you in the New York area during the spring of 2019 she'll be selling the last of her father’s peelers at the Brooklyn Borough Hall farmers market. Get them while you still can!
Also, enjoy our collection of recipes that put your favorite vegetable peeler to work.
Video: Best Salesman in the World (Ari Gold YouTube)
Francis Lam with Ruth Ades-Laurent and one of the last of her father's Star Swiss vegetable peelers Photo: Erika Romero | The Splendid Table
Before you go...
Each week, The Splendid Table brings you stories that expand your world view, inspire you to try something new, and show how food connects us all. We rely on your generous support. For as little as $5 a month, you can have a lasting impact on The Splendid Table. And, when you donate, you’ll join a community of like-minded individuals who love good food, good conversation, and kitchen companionship. Show your love for The Splendid Table with a gift today.
Thank you for your support.
Donate today for as little as $5.00 a month. Your gift only takes a few minutes and has a lasting impact on The Splendid Table and you'll be welcomed into The Splendid Table Co-op.
