Benjies is an old institution in Orange County in southern California. It is a simple and straightforward NY deli with outstanding meats. I have tried their star 'pastrami on rye' on a number of occasions and always came away with a smile. The reuben with the amazing corned beef is the other star. Of course they also serve all the classics from matzo ball soup to chicken soup and salads as well. And finally let's not forget the delectable desserts including of course the NY cheesecake. I know I will be back.
First, the host, Devin, was the hardest working person in the "front of house"!!! In addition, he was friendly and exceptionally polite. He worked diligently and without visible supervision. In reference to my 45+ years of hospitality management (retired), I wish I would have had twelve of these guys!!! KUDOS DEVIN!!! If you've been to Sherman's deli or Manhattan in the Desert deli, both exceptional in Palm Springs, this is the local equivalent!!! All of these deli locations seem a bit pricey, but you get very well prepared rather large, tasty portions. Value for your buck! We had full breakfasts with coffee and juice, but specifically came for the Latkes (crispy potato pancakes). I'm glad we did. They were exactly what we wanted/expected. DELICIOUS!!! All of these deli locations have very tempting bakery cases filled with decadent, flakey sweet delights. Service staff was "old school", lightly gruff, and slightly absent-minded, but sufficiently helpful. I have some pictures, but I tend to have too much excitement about eating. Once I remembered, I took pictures of what was left on our plates. Almost no pictures of the Latkes, just a remnant. My chicken fried steak breakfast is missing the eggs...I ate them, but everything was presented beautifully!!! My bagel & cream cheese was good, too! Very good breakfast. Menu has a wide selection of hot and cold, piled high sandwiches, and a good selection of entree full meals. You won't regret trying this venue!!! Including today, 3/20, I have now visited 4 times in the last month and a half!!! That says something, doesn't it?!! Parking: Large self parking lot. Wheelchair accessibility: Several parking spots and easy access to building and tables