CLEVELAND — Barrister’s Deli in downtown Cleveland has no affiliation with another restaurant, Karl’s Inn of the Barristers. The deli said confusion between customers continues to grow as Karl's Inn is shutting down business in two weeks. Barrister’s Deli fears uncertainty amongst customers could jeopardize business ahead of a busy holiday.
In February, another downtown deli staple that shares a similar name, Karl’s Inn of the Barristers, announced its upcoming closure. Since then, Barrister's Deli catering specialist, Mary Haddad, said customer confusion has taken on new heights. “We were very shocked because we are members of the Cleveland Alliance and that particular phone call shook me to the core,” Haddad added. “I thought if they have it confused which barrister’s is closing, what about the general public?”