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A Century of Style in New Orleans

Rubensteins: Family-Owned Excellence

Since 1924, Rubensteins has been a cornerstone of New Orleans’s Central Business District, offering quality men’s fashion with a personal touch. Our story begins with Morris Rubenstein, who opened our first store at the corner of Canal Street and St. Charles Avenue, driven by a desire to marry his true love.

Despite the tough job market, Morris used his family’s dry goods experience to start a haberdashery, selling shirts, ties, and other fashionable items. In December 2023, the Rubenstein family expanded its operations and opened The Rubenstein Hotel above the store.

The Rubenstein Hotel

Early Challenges and Growth

On our opening day, Morris made a modest profit of 47 cents, but his determination led to rapid growth. By the late 1920s, Morris’s brothers, Elkin and Sam, joined the business, expanding our presence on Canal Street and St. Charles Avenue.

Surviving the Great Depression

The 1930s brought the Great Depression, but Rubensteins persevered by negotiating lower rent with our landlord, ensuring we could keep our doors open. As the economy recovered, we purchased our property and celebrated with a grand opening in 1941.

Adapting Through World War II

World War II posed new challenges, but we adapted by adding a ladies’ clothing department and closing on Saturdays. Post-war, we welcomed returning servicemen, who became loyal customers.

The Rubenstein Hotel

Expanding for New Generations

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, we launched the Madison Shop for the new generation. By the 1970s, the second generation of Rubensteins opened the All-American Jeans division and expanded to the Plaza Shopping Center.

Continued Growth and Resilience

The 1980s saw further expansion to Metairie’s Lakeside Shopping Center. As sales slowed in some areas, we refocused on our downtown location. In 2000, the third generation joined the business, continuing our legacy.

Rebuilding After Hurricane Katrina

After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, we reopened less than two months later, demonstrating our commitment to New Orleans. Today, Rubensteins operates from seven buildings at Canal Street and St. Charles Avenue, with The Rubenstein Hotel above.

Commitment to Excellence

For over a century, Rubensteins has been dedicated to making New Orleans a better place. Recognized as the first Independent Retailer of the Year by the Daily News Record and listed as a “Gold Standard” on Esquire magazine’s Best of Class List, we continue to uphold our family’s legacy of quality and service.

A close-up of a stylish checkered suit with a brown tie and a blue patterned pocket square, providing a classic, formal look.

Rubensteins Men's Clothing and Shoes. The gold standard for men's apparel in New Orleans since 1924.

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