“Vegan Jewish Deli.” Your eyes do not deceive you. Apparently my Vegan Mentor (VM) @teachseuss determined that I was prepared for what felt like an advanced Vegan move.
A mere casual glance at the menu posted on the wall here would likely not raise even an eyebrow. Typical Jewish deli fare all the way around. That is until you read (and reread, followed by yet more reading of) the “fine print” (which is prominently and proudly displayed at the very top of the menu board).
“Our menu is 100% Vegan. The ingredients listed are not derived from animals.”
Wait, what? What about the “Reuben” and “Philly Cheesesteak?” Surely the “Turkey-Bacon Club”, “Meatball Sub”, and “Tuna Melt” include meat!
Actually, not so much. The characters playing the part of meat in this production are plant based substitutes and they are surprisingly effective in their roles.
When we ordered our server asked my VM to let him know if she had any questions. “Oh, I have a LOT of questions” was her immediate response. I have to admit that their conversation about which ingredients are utilized to impersonate each meat item were just words that floated innocently (but directly) over my head. 🤷♂️ All I can say is that my “Reuben” tasted like a “Reuben” and the lox upon her bagel looked pretty loxy to me.
If the Vegan angle doesn’t appeal to you that much, you may still want to give this place a try for the fresh bakery items (including bagels and various schmears).
And that’s…Henry’s Take.
#jewishvegandeli #sandiegodeli #vegandeli
Ben & Esther’s Vegan Jewish Deli
1904 S. Coast Highway
Oceanside, California
(760) 696-3099
