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Name: Michael’s Deli
Address: 256 Harvard St, Brookline, MA, 02446
Telephone: (617) 738-3354
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 4.04

Michael’s Deli

256 Harvard St, Brookline, MA, 02446

(617) 738-3354
Store is closed

Michael’s Deli Menu

Custom Sandwiches

New York Corned Beef

Maple Mustard Corned Beef

iRomanian Pastrami

Balsamic and Fig Glazed Pastram

Beef Brisket

Turkey Breast off the Frame

Roast Beef

Cooked Tongue

Honey Smoked Turkey Breast

Beef Salami

Smoked Ham and Cheese

Grilled Chicken Breast

Chicken Salad

Mango Chicken Salad

Tuna Salad

Whitefish Salad

Chopped Liver

Egg Salad

BLT (10 Slices of Bacon)

Cheese Sandwich

Pearl Frank

Pearl Frank Wrapped with Pastrami & Kraut

Italian (Mortadella Sweet Capicola Genoa Provolone)
Sandwich Choices

Bread

Toppings and Condiments

Cheese
Sandwich Extras

Bacon (3 slices)

Chopped Liver

Coleslaw or Sauerkraut

Dirty Chips
Signature Sandwiches

Corned Beef Reuben Or Rachel

Thorty Black and Gold

Michael’s Choice

Thanksgiving Feast

Jacob’s Choice

Slow Roasted "Steak" & Cheese

The Ken Jaffe

Howie Carr

Sandy

Michele McPhee

Tuna Melt

Jordan Rich

S.L.I.M.M.S. Triple Brisket
Dirty Sandwiches

The "Disheveled" Brisket

The "Unkept" Tuna Salad

The "Messy" Mango Chicken Salad

The "Slovenly" Italian

The "Sloppy" Hot Roast Beef
Meats By The Pound

Corned Beef

MM Corned Beef

Extra Lean Corned Beef

Pastrami

Extra Lean Pastrami

Balsamic-Fig Pastrami

Sweet Capicola

Brisket

Tongue

Turkey

Roast Beef

Smoked Turkey

Beef Salami

Smoked Ham

Mortadella

Genoa Salami

Pearl Franks

Tuna Salad

Egg Salad

Chicken Salad

Mango Chicken Salad
Sides

Seasonal Soup of the Day

House Salad

Hot Knish

Potato Salad

Blintzes

Pickles

Full Sour

Cole Slaw

Chopped Liver

Whitefish Salad

Latke

Stuffed Cabbage

Auntie Bev's Noodle Kugel
Breakfast Sandwiches

Egg and Cheese

Nova Capers Tomato & Onion

Bagels

Spreads

Healthy Meal suggestions for Michael’s Deli

Custom Sandwiches

New York Corned Beef [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Maple Mustard Corned Beef [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

iRomanian Pastrami [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Balsamic and Fig Glazed Pastram [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beef Brisket [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Turkey Breast off the Frame [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roast Beef [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cooked Tongue [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Honey Smoked Turkey Breast [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beef Salami [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Smoked Ham and Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Chicken Breast [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mango Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tuna Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Whitefish Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chopped Liver [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Egg Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

BLT (10 Slices of Bacon) [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cheese Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pearl Frank [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pearl Frank Wrapped with Pastrami & Kraut [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Italian (Mortadella Sweet Capicola Genoa Provolone) [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sandwich Choices

Bread [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Toppings and Condiments [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sandwich Extras

Bacon (3 slices) [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chopped Liver [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coleslaw or Sauerkraut [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Dirty Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Signature Sandwiches

Corned Beef Reuben Or Rachel [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Thorty Black and Gold [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Michael’s Choice [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Thanksgiving Feast [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Jacob’s Choice [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Slow Roasted "Steak" & Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

The Ken Jaffe [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Howie Carr [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sandy [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Michele McPhee [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tuna Melt [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Jordan Rich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

S.L.I.M.M.S. Triple Brisket [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Dirty Sandwiches

The "Disheveled" Brisket [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

The "Unkept" Tuna Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

The "Messy" Mango Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

The "Slovenly" Italian [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

The "Sloppy" Hot Roast Beef [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Meats By The Pound

Corned Beef [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

MM Corned Beef [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Extra Lean Corned Beef [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pastrami [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Extra Lean Pastrami [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Balsamic-Fig Pastrami [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sweet Capicola [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Brisket [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tongue [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Turkey [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roast Beef [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Smoked Turkey [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beef Salami [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Smoked Ham [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mortadella [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Genoa Salami [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pearl Franks [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tuna Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Egg Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mango Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sides

Seasonal Soup of the Day [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

House Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hot Knish [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Potato Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Blintzes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pickles [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Full Sour [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cole Slaw [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chopped Liver [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Whitefish Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Latke [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Stuffed Cabbage [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Auntie Bev's Noodle Kugel [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Breakfast Sandwiches

Egg and Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Nova Capers Tomato & Onion [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bagels [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spreads [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

Charlie D.

This deli is an absolute gem in an area packed with great food. If you want the best deli sandwich around Michael's is the place to go if you're not ballin' on a budget. The sandwiches will run you upwards of $10-15 but for what you get it's well worth it. I've had several of the sandwiches on the menu and they are all 10/10s. There is a great selection of fresh bread and the meat is all fresh and delicious. Definitely try this place out and you won't be disappointed. This is also cash only so hit the ATM first!
(5)
Andrew O.

If you're looking for a not-so-hole-in-the-wall deli for lunch, look no further. Michael's has won awards and garnered praise for years, but their true calling card is found in their welcoming and friendly staff, headed by the Corned Beef King himself. From the moment you walk in, you'll feel more like you're visiting old friends than stopping at a deli. To put it simply, the corned beef is phenomenal. It melts in your mouth, overflowing from the edges of the bread because it's been piled on so high. Though the sandwiches generally leave me wishing for a better cheese to meat balance, the quality of the ingredients makes up for any disproportion. It simply does not get better than this outside of Manhattan. Additionally, they are still cash only, but there is a Capital One ATM on the corner that doesn't charge withdrawal fees. You'll need to shell out around $15 for a sandwich and drink (plus tip!), but for a once-in-a-while treat and top notch service, it's well worth the cost.
(4)
Meghan B.

Overrated. Overpriced. Tiny and crowded. Price for a Reuben, chips and water was over $15! The Reuben was just average, not a massive size like Sam LaGrassa. They make the sandwiches in front of you with store bought bread. I'm not asking a deli for a freshly slaughtered cow but come on, ingredients seemed cheap. Throughly unimpressed. Cash only businesses automatically get a -1 star from me as I don't endorse legal tax evasion and make it a hassle to use. I don't get the hype. It's only niche is delis are rare in the Boston area, however sandwich shops are by no means white rhinos. I will not be back. I can make my own Reuben over five times for $15. 7subs nearby is twice as good for half the price and isn't cash only.
(2)
M K.

Pretty tasty sandwich. Fairly pricey...15 for a sandwich. My only gripe is that the meat didn't looked like it was cured/smoked/cooked in house. In NYC for the same price you'd be eating at Katz Deli where everything is done in house.
(4)
Miranda D.

Amazing sandwiches!! Thick sandwiches, full of meat, delicious!! I came once and got a pastrami sandwich, and let me tell you, it was once if the best sandwiches I've ever had!! I swear, it was like 3 inches thick!!! Crazy loaded with pastrami!!! And it was perfectly cooked! I definitely recommend Michael's Deli if you're in the Brookline area craving a great sandwich!!!
(4)
Allie M.

The Rachel is awesome! Very nice staff. Tasty food. Kind of expensive for a sandwich, but they are superb.
(4)
L P.

Michael's Deli where have you been all my life? I don't know who Michael is but Steve introduced himself as the owner and he couldn't have been more personable. Their corned beef and the chopped chicken liver beats Zaftigs or Rubins by a mile. But what stole the show was believe it or not their tongue sandwich! I know, I know, sounds horrid right? I was squeamish when I heard my mom order it, but when I tried a little bit of hers OMG I had to get my own! It's sliced really thin, piled high, served warm, and tastes like the softest corned beef you've ever had. Don't even think about it, just try it and a whole new world will open up to you! They were out of rye and offered me the sandwich on challah which was a happy accident I think. That sandwich was even better on challah! I live an hour away but I can't wait to go back again. I wish they had more seating but who cares, just get a takeout and remember to bring cash.
(5)
Craig H.

Unbelievable pastrami and corned beef sandwiches. The meat is so tender and succulent, it literally melts in your mouth. I find myself back here frequently, and even more frequently when my New York hometown family comes up. Seriously, don't pass is place up. Bring cash though...no plastic accepted.
(5)
Alex L.

Old school, cash only, best place to get a sandwich in Coolidge Corner. Also, best Reuben in the city.
(5)
Diane Maggie M.

I'm an Irish Catholic Townie but my Dad wanted to try knish. So I looked it up here on Yelp. First, it's easy to get here. Green Line trolley to Coolidge Corner (C line) and walk about a block. It's a small place with limited seating, but I was just picking up. The guy at the counter was pleasant and welcoming. There were four varities and I got 2 of each, $2.99 each. I served half tonight when my brother came to visit. My Dad (and everyone else loved the pastami. The roast beef was good. I wasn't crazy about the spinach, but my sister-in-law liked it. I didn't like the potato myself, but my nephews snatched them up. But all were covered with flaky tender pastry. I'll be going back to try sandwiches. Also, thanks to other Yelp eviewers I knew "Cash only"!
(4)
Jeremy K.

Living in Boston for over four years now (jeeze, typing it made me realize it. I must let it sink, I'll brb in a few.............................................. ok I'm back!) I realized that I have never been able to find a good, decent, NY-style place that serves up good pastrami or corned beef. Sure there's Sam Lagrassa's but their hours don't make it the most convenient place out there; but finally my prayers have been answered over at Michael's Deli. When I heard of it for the first time and saw where it was located, I felt like an ass because I had driven by it at least a good hundred times and never even noticed it. I decided to go there on a snowy afternoon with the girlfriend. I was greeted a little aggressively by Michael himself who commented on my Yankees hat. I quickly responded by saying that "You're the one with the NY-style deli in Boston!" He smiled and we made truce. A few minutes later I had a heaping sandwich full of both pastrami and corned beef. Over 1.5 lbs of it and it was all delicious! The staff is great and they have root beer in a glass bottle! How cool is that huh? I might sound nostalgic but I've been raised with glass bottled root beer, not canned root beer and it made this place grow on me instantly. I've since then returned many times, driving all the way from Kendall square to go get my Micheal fix. Terrific meant sandwiches and they also have solid slaw along with the knishes. Snow or rain, shine or thunder, I shall become a loyal customer there in time. If only parking was a little easier, I'd go there every week. And just might! Highly recommended!
(4)
Chappy B.

Stopped in here just before the lunch rush. Generous helpings, reasonable prices. CASH ONLY. When I didn't have enough for a drink the cashier poured me a glass of cold water without even asking. Seems to be a regulars spot, everyone's name dropping. On the way home I laughed at everyone standing in line at Subway. Also, potato salad...
(5)
C C.

Stopped in for lunch today and I'm so happy i did. Not only did the place just smell great but my sub and bf's was sooo good.Extra points for carrying pickles tomatoes. I could not have asked for more in the quality or quantity of what i ordered. Customer service was nice, no complaints there. I over heard that the infamous Michael has retired. I'll be back !
(5)
Tom G.

Better meats than Zaftigs and less expensive. More of a legit deli than sit down place. Quite nice.
(4)
Jenn F.

Walking in their door is always the highlight of my day. Their staff is amazing, they always greet me with a smile, they know my order and ask about work and my coworkers since they know I work across the street. And the FOOD!!!!! Oh wow, absolutely incredible! Delectable sandwiches, sumptuous sides and mouth watering deli choices. It's making my hungry just thinking about them. This will be your new favorite place for lunch!
(5)
Paul N.

Real Corned Beef and Pastrami made on premises. Authentic deli. Small in size full in flavor. I've only been there once. If this is the best of Boston however, it may be time to take the Bolt Bus back to NYC. Go for a good sandwich made with fresh, authentic ingredients. Then move on.
(3)
Eric S.

After watching Bizzare Foods with Andrew Zimmern on the Travel Channel, and being introduced to the New York Deli, I began searching for a similar deli in the Boston area. Sure, there's Eagle Deli who seems to serve nothing but gut-busting burgers, and there's Jim's Deli which serves very good food, but neither are New York style delis. Then, I came across Michael's Deli. After reading the various reviews on Yelp, and seeing that they serve tongue sandwiches (which, by the way is one of the best cuts of meat according to Andrew Zimmern because it's marbled and tender), I just had to give this place a try. Armed with cash, (I read about his "credit card policy") I walked in and was greeted by Michael (who I had recognized from the photos on their site). I ordered a whole tongue sandwich on white bread with American cheese and honey mustard. I sat down and watched them make my sandwich. For some of the sandwiches, they had to microwave them to make them "hot" sandwiches, but my tongue sandwich was not microwaved (not while I was there at least). My sandwich came out nice and warm. It didn't quite look like the sandwiches in the photos on Yelp (it didn't have quite as much meat and the sandwich wasn't as large, maybe tongue costs more?), but it did have plenty of meat, and it was cooked to perfection. The beef tongue was tender yet flavorful, and had a slightly corned beef taste, but not to the extent where the flavor of the meat was masked by the seasonings. It was incredibly juicy and dripped all over the plate. It came with a whole pickle, sliced in half lengthwise, which was more salty than sour, and was more cucumber than pickle, but they appeared to be homemade so it could just be that style. (I am not a connoisseur of pickles by any means, but I do love pickles!) I finished the sandwich, thanked Michael, who replied "You're welcome, have a good one," then left. I don't know if Michael is really as rude as some of the reviews on here describe him to be, but I had a very pleasant experience here today. (Maybe I caught him on a good day?)
(4)
Linsey M.

Michael's Deli recently catered a conference I hosted in Boston for 55 people for both breakfast and lunch. Steven was EXCELLENT to work with. He was accommodating with our advanced planning, worked with us in advance to arrange a time we could come in for lunch to experience the food and be able to meet with him directly to discuss our needs and budget. His delivery was beyond timely even at the busiest breakfast and lunch times of the day. The food was efficiently packaged, hot was hot and cold was cold and most importantly we had just the right amount of food. Everyone was happy and really enjoyed the food which was delicious and we were able to cater to the needs of everyone from the strictest vegan to the biggest roast beef fan and everyone in between. They were fast, efficient, reliable and a pleasure to work with taking much of the stress off of this part of the conference planning process. It was a stellar experience, I would not hesitate to work with them again or recommend them to others. We are looking forward to having Michael's Deli cater our regular office lunches in the future.
(5)
Jim W.

Line out the door. Yum. Big sandwich's. 'Nuf said.
(5)
Chris L.

I'm gonna make a controversial statement here and declare that I will probably never order the corned beef or the pastrami sandwich at Michael's Deli ever again. It's not that they aren't both delicious - they are. I just believe I've stumbled across something that blows both sandwiches out of the water: The Hot Tongue. Picture this: Corned beef that's twice as tender, more flavorful, and 100% lean. Super Corned Beef, if you will. Such is the hot tongue. It's kind of like the difference between maguro and otoro. Both are great, but one is naturally better simply because it has more intramuscular fat. This sandwich is so good that I'd propose changing the Michael's sobriquet from "The Corned Beef King" to "The Hot Tongue King," had that nickname not already been assigned to my friend Evan after his romantic escapades in the 6th grade. Combined with brown mustard, horseradish sauce, tomatoes, and lettuce, the hot tongue sandwich has become one of my favorite sandwiches of all time and is certainly tied with the Prosciutto Lover's sandwich at the Meat Spot in Watertown as my favorite sandwich in the Boston area. The guy that took our order was full of smiles and super kind, which made me wonder what the other reviewers were complaining about. Once my sandwich was done, he pointed to my girlfriend and I and said, "Half tongue and bagel with butter," as if he was really happy to have our business. He was also very helpful when I asked about the different sizes of nova cream cheese available for purchase and I ended up taking home a good sized tub of cream cheese, chock full of salmon, for just over three bucks. We experienced none of the surliness that I had read about in multiple reviews and I fell into an almost zen-like state as I ate my tongue on rye. Maybe the guys at Michael's have read the Yelp reviews complaining about the service and are making a conscious attempt to improve things, or perhaps, some Yelpers are too sensitive after being coddled their entire lives and are unable to understand that small, independently owned businesses cannot afford to have people sitting around for hours or dilly dallying with credit cards when ordering a $5 sandwich. Either way, I think Michael's is a fantastic neighborhood establishment and I hope that it will continue to "slip me the tongue" whenever I return to Boston in the future.
(5)
Kyrstyn B.

Yes Michael is a prick, but he is a prick by Boston standards. If you have ever been in a busy NY deli he is practically susie sunshine. Oh and if you dish it back he is not that bad. I can honestly say that this is the only place that I prefer the Rachel over the Ruben. Many places put too much sugar and dressing (or mayo) in their coleslaw and they do not as it has just the right amount of sweetness and "juice". The brisket is cooked perfectly and with their russian on rye it is an excellent sandwich. The bagels and cream cheese are the best! I would hope so as he gets at least the bagels from NY. There are only 6 tables and only one seats 4 the others seat 2. Eat and get out that is what he wants you to do. I have not been since the new ownership has taken over so I do not know if it has changed.
(4)
G K.

top quality sandwiches. This place is amazing. the sandwiches we had were : Mikes choice -- awesome roast beef and brisket Howie Carr -- great brisket and cornedbeef Rubin sandwich is great too prices seemed about $1.50 higher than they should be...but the quality is amazing so its fine.
(5)
Gina S.

Wow! Diapointed, my first time so I went with there strongest item. Half sandwich, hot corned beef with horseradish sauce. Both were totally flavorless. The meat was tender without any taste. I love horseradish but there sauce had absolutly no kick at all. I certainly won't rush back here or bring any friends.
(1)
Marissa P.

An update on Michael: I actually like the guy and don't see what's so bad and why people complain? He sold me some delicious freshly baked bagels today, called me "dear", and cracked a witty joke. I candidly asked him about his no reading policy and he told me people hang out like it's a coffee shop. I gotta say, the man has a point. And his corned beef is to die for as usual.
(5)
Sam S.

first there was the corn beef. then i graduated to pastrami. Now i have a doctorate in tongue.
(5)
D R.

Probably doesn't need another good review - but these sandwiches are awesome. I've been here 3 times and have only tried the Reuben and the Rachel...soon I will venture out and try something else! Oh, and I almost forgot to mention, the people who work there are also super nice and helpful!
(5)
Nicholas P.

It is hard to state in words how much of a jerk Michael of Michael's deli truly is. I don't know how he came to be, but I have never in all my life come across such an unpleasant man. He is rude, mean, cold, obnoxious and outright evil. My opinion of him is based on 10-12 visits to his deli in the past year, as well as multiple other encounters told to me by others. Rumor has it that he was kicked out of the Marlboro because of how much of a jerk he was. The following excerpt will truly describe who he is... He strategically hides his "cash only" sign in a corner that allows new customers to approach the cash register unaware (after 10 minutes in line), yet still allows him to point at it in utter disgust as he moves on to the next customer, without pause. I hate him. That being said his deli meats are delicious and I have never had a bad meal there. New york style sandwiches at a Boston price. I will continue to go and enjoy the food while my hatred for Michael will continue to grow.
(3)
SR F.

love the new michaels.. only one suggestion.. either they get a toaster over for the knish or sell only for takeout.. they ruin these in the wave!
(3)
Adam A.

Michael is rude if you read a book or write a novel at a table that is only supposed to be used by customers who are eating. There are signs posted everywhere that say this...so get over it. If you are not a stupid, ditzy customer, then you will find the service and friendliness of the staff to be top notch The food is awesome. Anything that you get will be great but definitely try the horseradish sauce (homemade).
(5)
Cwot W.

Imagine you put a cow through a wood chipper at 80 mph and caught it with wax paper. My roast beef was like that. Good sandwich but basically a yard sale on bread. Also, the guy that works the front, while being very nice, Appears to have no short term memory. It took far longer to take my order than to make it. And was in fact, not what I ordered at all.
(4)
Doctor F.

BREAD TOO THICK?? I SAY "YES". I love this place, but I can't help but think that the bread is just a bit too thick for the sandwiches. Im just going to say it - this is the thickest bread I've ever had at a legit deli. In my opinion - it takes away from the sandwich. Food-wise, that is the only thing I would change at Michael's. Their pastrami and cornbeef are as-good-as it gets in my opinion. I lived in NYC for years and frequented many a Jewish deli there, and Michael's is right there. But again - the bread?? Its great bread but...sliced too thick I say. Something to consider! I just feel it hurts the sandwich, which is something no one wants to see. I know these are serious words as we are all dead-serious when it comes to sandwiches.
(4)
Takumi Y.

Very old fashioned deli. Got old drinks and sodas(moxie) and ate by wooden tables and chairs. Got the reuben and the rachel with a free side of cole-slaw(check in on yelp). Amazing. One of the best sandwiches i had in Boston. A must visit if youre around the area.
(4)
Pough K.

Omg....so effing good.
(5)
Stephen R.

The Corned Beef reuben was unreal. The best I have ever had anywhere. The bread was simple. The corned beef wasn't salty, but full of flavor. The Swiss Cheese was yummy, melty. The dressing was warm and a perfect touch to draw every component together. To top it all off the pickles were nice and sweet, more of a pickled cucumber.
(5)
Ange B.

Great food, friendly people. New owner, Steve, is a great guy. People rave about the corned beef, but I'm happy eating their tuna on rye any day of the week.
(4)
Jeff D.

Don;t understand the questions on poor service. My wife & I went here on a Saturday with our four month old and the people couldn't have been nicer. We got a pastrami on rye & reuben to eat-in and sesame bagel to go. Sandwiches were fantastic and great portions. Michael himself even came over and talked to our baby for a bit. Maybe that's the secret, come with a baby.
(4)
Jessica h.

Excellent helpful staff, heavenly sandwiches EVERY TIME. Dr. Browns soda, Kosher Dill Pickles and pre-made salads. Best Pastrami sandwiches and corn beef. Absolutely can't go wrong, bring cash.
(5)
Hayley M.

Very, very solid deli. I can't believe I've lived a matter of blocks from this hidden hole-in-the-wall and didn't notice it! I'm a regular at the Subway on the same block and wish I had known that a far better deli spot was only a few doors down. Apparently (can't find the hours on their website) they are only open for lunch, but well worth it. My turkey and cheddar on challah bread was a serious sandwich, overstuffed with fresh, flavorful turkey and made complete with a half sour pickle. I noticed they have knishes, and I suffer from a knish weakness, so I know I'll be back and picking some of them up to go. But I'll make sure to bring cash, 'cause they won't take cards.
(4)
P K.

We had an awesome Jewish deli family birthday gathering for my Dad's 80th!! Every type of knish, big plates of pickles and pickled tomatoes, perfect latkes with sour cream and apple sauce. Then bring on the sandwiches - really the best corned beef!! - Go for the Ruebens. Great pastrami, Brisket and also a superb whitefish salad. Great bulkie rolls, perfect bagels and lox. Everybody was happy and very full.. Special shout out to Michael's son for the idea of a birthday cake knish- so good and so perfect for the occasion. Much better food than the other deli's in the neighborhood and so much friendlier! Best Rueben evah!!
(5)
Marie c.

New ownership-improvement for personality for sure..but the food is suffering. Coleslaw has NO flavor; chicken salad is too chunky and falls out of the bread, the quality of the food has been affected to the negative, regretfully. Love the new owner Steve..but he is NOT maintaining the quality Michael built with great attention. I'm going way less than I used to as a result and am disappointed in seeing this. You will get new patrons..but you are also losing long time customers because of the changes. Oh and the sandwhiches are at least 1/3 smaller than before the management changeover. Go back to how Michael made his food, please..and I'll come back more often. You have lost a star from me.
(3)
Ken W.

This is one of my favorite places for a quick and delicious lunch -- corned beef Rachel, cream soda, yum. As others have commented, the old reviews about unfriendliness no longer apply at all. To the contrary, this is a tremendously friendly place. I come in for an early weekend lunch with my son (who's too young for corned beef but will be a regular someday), counter staff always have a smile for him, then I set him up in a high chair and feed him food from home while I have my sandwich and he grins at the other customers. Some places go out of their way to be unfriendly to babies (e.g., by making us leave stroller out in the rain when the place is empty), some are neutral, and some are a pleasure. This one's a pleasure. That made Michael's a natural choice for catering bagels/lox/whitefish for my son's first birthday party, and they did a great job. The owner was out of town when I called, but he followed up by email and phone in minutes, set up the order on short notice, and was slicing the last bagel as I walked in to pick up a gorgeous and delicious platter. It cost more than it would have to buy a few dozen bagels and a pack of lox from Bruegger's, but deservedly so; this was high quality stuff and really helped make the party festive. Will be back for both lunch and catering. Great food, great place. And I heard they may be adding seats!
(5)
Chrissy H.

I don't really see what the hype is about. Let's see... decent food that I can't enjoy while reading a book on my much needed break from work after the waitstaff scowls at me when I place my order. All set with that. Next. P.S. The coffee is gross.
(1)
Lilee N.

The Sandy-- highly recommend on a bulkie roll if you like chewy soft bread (uh, yum!) Rachel-- highly recommend on pumpernickel ingredients are fresh and light so you don't walk out feeling gross. the sandwiches are very satisfying. staff was nice and really friendly. downside is they only take cash, but there is an atm across the street.
(4)
Jenzy Y.

This place is REALLY GOOD. A friend lives in the area and we stopped by for a snack, and it hit the spot. In fact, we went back the last day of our visit and took sandwiches on the plane with us! We really liked Michael's Choice, a warm roast beef & beef brisket with horseradish sauce. Mmmm...
(4)
George S.

Just ate there for the first time after hearing about it for maybe the last year and a half and seeing the Boston episode of "No Reservations". Corned beef with yellow mustard on light rye. I will be going back. It is f'ing delicious people! The corned beef just melts in your mouth.
(4)
Adam B.

Went there over the weekend and got the smoked salmon bagel platter with an everything bagel. To my delight they gave everything on the side and let you build it yourself. No glob of cream cheese in the middle of the bagel or 3 inches thick cream cheese. All the ingredients were fresh and dee-lish. This morning I got a fineagle a bagel duplicate of that. Meh! Needless to say it has inspired me to write this review of michaels. This was not my first time there I usually get the same thing every time. I need to try the cold cuts, kanishes and other deli fare. 5 stars easy.
(5)
Joe F.

Way better than Carnegie deli and best pastrami since eating at Katz years ago...
(4)
Phil C.

Michael's has well-above average corned beef and pastrami for the area. They're both pretty lean and flavorful. The sandwiches are well-portioned and the prices are better than other places like Rubin's or Zaftigs. I'm giving this place this high of a grade, assuming that I'll be just doing take-out from now on. Just don't eat-in and do take-out instead. You'll save yourself from the prospects of facing grumpy/watchful eyes and the grief of being rushed out...
(4)
Jess H.

Not sure why people bitch about the customer service and attitude here, because when I went the guy at the register was lovely. He was so friendly and had a great disposition, even cracked some funny jokes. I even saw him encourage people to stay and sit down to eat. Maybe it's a different guy, but I thought he was great. I got a tuna sub, and it was one of the best i've had in this area. The sub roll was perfect, so fresh & very large, and the tuna was delicious! It was so big I saved half for dinner. The turkey and the reuben that I saw on my way out looked amazing too, so i'll have to come back to try those. Great place, great location.
(4)
Joey C.

Great sandwiches. Howie Carr (corned beef & beef briskey) and Rachel (spin on classic Reuben substitute with cole slaw instead of sauerkraut). Yummm. I would recommend calling ahead to pick up. It gets pretty busy in there.
(4)
Joey C.

Damn, that's good corned beef. Good service too
(5)
Callan C.

Well located classic deli near Coolidge Corner. They serve a variety of sandwiches here. I had the corned beef on rye and it was very good. The sandwiches are served with large portions of meat - you can even get half sandwiches if you aren't feeling up to the full task. The staff is polite, but definitely in a "get the job done mode" so the food comes out quickly.
(4)
Josh S.

My favorite sandwich in Boston (the Rachel - reuben sub cole slaw) - Michael's is located behind Trader Joe's and is worth a stop after you've been shopping. The deli is small and there is limited seating, but its worth the wait to grab a table. Try the pickles too.
(5)
Eve R.

As a native New Yorker, I've been excited to try Michael's for a while and am sad to report that it was a big disappointment. We tried 2 signature sandwiches and found both very underwhelming. Perhaps the build-your-own more typical deli sandwiches are better, but I don't think I'll be going again to try myself.
(2)
Scotty Z.

Wish I could comment on the food; it looked pretty good! Except, the owner was the biggest jerk SOB I've ever seen. EVER. Gave me grief over paying with a credit card, after which I offered to order the larger sandwich (knowing he was a local business owner), but he continued his incessant tirade. This is the first and *only* time I've ever called my bank to demand a chargeback (for the sandwich he charged me for but never made), and filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. Ultimately, I know small business owners get screwed with credit card fees. Many places I frequent don't accept them, which is fine. Deal with it or don't, but act like an adult.
(1)
Adriana C.

Nice freshly made sandwiches. Service is quick.
(4)
Jeff S.

Nobody has written about Michael's chicken noodle soup? Ok, I will. It's like my mother's, except she doesn't live here. I would arrange for it to come out of my tap if possible. So warm and tasty on a cold, snowy Brookline weekend afternoon. I don't know what kind of experiences people have had with Michael, but mine have been delightful. He immediately recognized my Oklahoma accent as "not from around here," then proceeded to tell me his own Oklahoma story (everyone in Boston seems to have one) despite the fact it was lunch and the place was hopping. He's remembered me each time I've been in since.
(5)
S Z.

One of the best sandwiches I have ever had. The Rachel was phenomenal. My husbands club was as well. Dont like that they only take cash.
(4)
Andre C.

Probably my favorite deli in Boston. Love the corned beef and pastrami. Favorite item is probably the pastrami knish. I love that they have cream soda as well. Worth a visit.
(4)
Oriana S.

Based on the food alone, I would have given this place four or five stars, but I won't for one reason: the owner of this place is a bit rude. He abrasive and especially mean if you are male (he's a lot nicer to the ladies). He charges an extra dollar if two people want to share a dish. How absurd is that?! Also, they don't accept credit cards, so make sure you are carrying cash with you. With that said, the breakfast bagels are yummy! I usually get the egg, ham and cheese everything bagel and a spinach kanish. I also recommend the Rachel (corned beefs sandwich)- they're very generous with their sandwich fillings! You'll leave this deli feeling full and satisfied, but also slightly bruised because the owner will probably be a bit of a jerk to you (especially if you're a guy).
(3)
Paula C.

Before Michael's, I wouldn't even go near corned beef. But then came the glorious day when their Reuben made a convert of me. In all seriousness, the best sandwich I've ever had was their Reuben. Though the price tag is a bit high (about $9 a pop), the Reuben is big enough that you can split with someone and be satisfied after, primarily because this baby comes overstuffed with corned beef. I've also tried many of the knishes, and the Pastrami knish takes the gold. The meat knish was a little bland and had a low meat-to-other-stuff ratio in the filling; the spinach knish was good, not great; but the pastrami knish was only filled with juicy, mouth-watering meat. As far as the other stuff is concerned, I couldn't tell you because I have to get the Reuben and pastrami knish every time I go; were it for these 2 items only I'd give the place 5 stars. If you're a meat-eater, bring yourself to Michael's with a very empty belly and nom on the Reuben and pastrami knish (I apologize for how many times I've repeated those words). OH -- the service is fast and friendly there too :)
(4)
Eve L.

BEST KNISHES IN BOSTON. Hands down. It's not even close. If you don't believe me, you either haven't tried them or you don't know from knishes. I'm a vegetarian, so many of their foodstuffs are off the menu for me - I'm told they have great chopped liver and great roast beef sandwiches, etc etc. But I go here for their knishes, and that's worth it, and they also happen to have a great, NYC style egg salad sandwich. That is, overstuffed and overflowing, half a sandwich is all you need kind of sandwich.
(5)
Greg R.

In general I would say the food is good, really good. If you are taking out and want a big sandwich this a good stop. That said there are a number of issues that keep this from being a five star place. - The atmosphere is not friendly. - Credit cards are not welcome. - You may be asked to leave if you're done eating - There are signs telling you that you can't sit and read, even when they are not busy. - Counter service and order-taking is slow and disorganized. - The menu is not easily visible (I think there is only one) - If you don't finish your sandwich (they are huge) and you ask to have it wrapped up you'll get a piece of foil shoved at you across the counter. If food service was just about the food this place would be great but I feel you go to a place for food + hospitality and this place is only half there.
(3)
Steve M.

I hate corned beef and this place has me coming back for a Ruben! It is that good. It is cash only and for first timers it has a somewhat intimidating feel. Just check out the menu on the side and dive in with confidence and you will not regret it!
(5)
David G.

I have heard so much about Michael's and have wanted to try it for some time. They are closed on Saturdays, (but serve bacon & sausage sandwiches?), so it has taken some time to eat here. On our visit, we had some breakfast sandwiches and they were just fine. The nova they serve is straight from a plastic package, adequate, but nothing special. The staff was very friendly! I am sorry for the rating I am giving but: Cash only ? I find cash only businesses very inconvenient. This only benefits the owner. The interior has a serous lack of style & limited seating. The display cases are sparsely filled with only a few items, not a very attractive, or appetizing display. After all I heard, I guess I just expected more. I don't like establishments that live off their reputation without striving to be better.
(2)
Doris M.

The real deal! I was on vacation and stumbled into this amazing little spot The food is delicious and totally fresh The owner is super friendly and makes sure you are satisfied
(5)
C S.

Filthy. The floors were dirty and needed to be swept and washed. The glass on the deli case was dirty and dingy. It was awful.
(1)
Daniel M.

This guy could fart in my face and I'd still buy a sandwich here, it's that good. Anyone that has something bad to say about this place is a moron. Know the drill and enjoy one of the best sandwiches you'll ever eat. The Drill: Know what you want Have cash Chew and screw. Better yet, get it to go
(5)
georgia marie l.

Alright, I am appalled that anyone would give Michael's Deli anything less than a perfect rating. The sandwiches? Out of this world, hit mine up with some cole slaw and russian dressing please! Large cucumber-like pickles are the perfect pairing with the fat stack of meet you receive nestled between bread that will make you melt. Three different kinds of potato salad, who could ask for more? Michael always takes your order and I have spent nine months of bi-weekly visits trying to coax a smile out of him. He's tough, but only because he knows better than you. This isn't the place to relax and read a book, in fact, there are signs posted specifically forbidding it. If you want to spend $5 and post up for three hours, there's a Starbucks across the street. Fall in line! Order, eat, and leave because there's a steady flow of customers who want to sit at your table. Listen, this place isn't for the faint of heart. But if you're looking for a deli, you'd be an idiot to go anywhere else.
(5)
yana v.

Went here for brunch on a gray Sunday afternoon, and even though the sky was cloudy this place put a smile in my face. My husband and I got a bagel with smoked salmon cream cheese (had chunks of salmon and chives which added a bit of delicious spiciness to the mix) and a Reuben. The bagels where were fluffy and the Reuben had soo much meat in it with tasty Sauerkraut and russian dressing. It was almost too much meat for me... I think if i was getting this sandwich alone I would split it up into two sandwiches and enjoy the goodness for that much longer. Another little treat if you're a fan is that they sell Coke in the glass bottles made with real sugar, not the corn syrup goo. Tasty. We'll be back.
(4)
C E.

I've been going here for 7 or 8 years. And it's because of Michael's that I cannot eat a Reuben or Rachel anywhere in Mass but here. Because nowhere else compares. Five stars.
(5)
SunnyDay D.

Lived about 500 steps from here for almost 2 yrs and NEVER went. I move past it , next to Cleveland Circle and FINALLY decide to go. Took me long enough! Man, was i soooo missing a great affordable sandwich! I am a HUGE fan of GOOD hot pastrami and cheese sandwiches--and I've found my place! The other sandwiches look appetizing, but unfortunately, I'm a pastrami girl, so i've yet to venture out. Friends say they love other various sandwiches. So, I would encourage you to go grab one! You'll be glad you did!!!
(4)
Rachel R.

Delicious deli food. My husband and I are soon moving out of the area and had been meaning to try Michael's Deli for years, so we stopped in today. The staff are all friendly and helpful. The food is amazing. We got a Rachel, and when they say they're the king of corned beef, they mean it. The corned beef was tender and juicy, but not overly oily or fatty; really just perfect. We also got a special: balsamic and fig glazed pastrami. We got sauerkraut on top and swiss cheese and it was very tasty. I will be back for more corned beef though.
(5)
Ryan S.

I always love the hole in the wall places and Michael's did not disappoint. We went in on a Sunday afternoon for a light lunch and were thoroughly impressed. We had the Reuben which was piled high with tender, tasty corned beef. The Russian dressing was not your garden variety and was very good on the sandwich. I got the 1/2 sandwich and it was plenty for a hearty lunchtime appetite. Our 4 year-old had salami and cheese...that was also very good. There was enough salami for 2 or 3 sandwiches and we took home the extra for sandwiches later in the week. Also, the place is small, so be prepared to carryout during peak times.
(5)
Cassie H.

I've been anxious to try this place out looking for a sandwich place here in Boston. I ordered the chicken salad on pumpernickel which was alright. The chicken salad had a lot of chicken and not a lot of filler, so you definitely get your chicken's worth for what you pay ($8/sandwich). However, I felt the chicken salad was quite tasteless. No punch, no spice, no salt? My husband had the turkey club, which he enjoyed a lot. I think next time I might try one of their famous corned beef sandwiches or the cheesesteak... And definitely remember: cash only!
(3)
Ed Y.

Another jewel in MA. Michael serves up one of the best corned beef, pastrami sandwiches i have ever eaten. As well as a number of specialty sandwiches named after local celebrities. Their bagels and lox cheese spread are one of my favorites. I highly recommend Michaels deli.
(5)
Barrett F.

Oh my dear sweet Rachel... How I adore your warm corned beef and goey drip from your fingers cole slaw. Seriously, the place has a bit of attitude, a bit of an edge. Don't sit down and read here, that's not what we're here for. And you know what, AMEN and I'm totally okay with it. The sandwhiches are out of this world. In short, it's the best sandwich I've had since i moved to Boston, in Boston or otherwise. It's not really a date place, but pick something up and race to a nearby park for a picnic--as noted in an earlier review, make sure you hurry, cause the oowy gooey amazingness will render the bread useless in keeping the sandwich together if you dont. Regardless, its definitely worth a look, though it can be a bit pricey for "just" a sandwich.
(4)
Cheester O.

What a rude f**k. Below average sandwich, not worth dealing with the prick at the register.
(1)
Mike C.

The amount of roast beef on my sandwich was absurd in a very good way. I felt like my tummy was gonna explode after feasting on the deliciousness that was the roast beef rachel. And only 9 bucks. Not bad at all...
(4)
Kris N.

Zillions of good reviews with good narrative already. I'm just gonna add my rating to help their score tally! Cash only - deal with it. Comments about owner and staff - they've always been prompt and polite, and started recognizing me after only a few visits spread out over a couple of months. Never had a bad meal, and that's a couple dozen by this point. (It's no wonder the Quiznos around the corner tanked. The Breuggers across the street would be toast as well, if not for the big discrepancy in seating options. Breuggers has free WiFi and let's you linger, while Michael's asks you not to even read at the table.) Just go. No deli, anywhere near (closest probably Brooklyn), comes anywhere close.
(5)
Dawn E.

I couldn't care less about the service here, though I haven't yet had a bad experience. What I do care lots about is tuna salad. I'm a fan of tuna salad made with solid white, and not very gloppy, and that's how they roll at Michael's. Their tuna club is a dream come true. Don't worry about being harassed in regard to seating, just get your food to go (the inevitable wolfing and/or emotional outpourings over a sandwich are better reserved for privacy anyway).
(4)
Trip B.

Oh how I love thee sweet Rachel. There is just something about the vinagary sweetmess contrasting with the fattiness of the roast beef that will make me want to take a nap after I eat you. I would eat one of these sandwiches every day if I was allowed
(5)
Kelly O.

Can't comment on any of the sandwiches, but the bagels are great, 3.5 stars. I come here specifically for a plain toasted bagel with scallion cream cheese- cheaper and arguably tastier than the other bagel joints in the area. While the grumpiness of the counter can be offputting, I've always been treated well whenever I've gone in. Gotta love the Dr. Brown soda as well.
(3)
Nancy H.

What a dump. I wish we had been warned that not a penny has been spent on improvements in many years. You order at the counter where a harried clerk rushes you. The few places to sit are beat up chairs and tables that are never cleaned. Nothing is on the table - not even S & P! The sandwiches, (served on the cheapest of paper plates with equally skimpy napkins) are good with good quality meats. But everything is extra and a problem. You want ice for your soda- they don't have it. It's not cheap 1/2 of a corn beef sandwich is $5. The rye bread was commercial not authentic Jewish rye. Poor value for ok food and no service.
(2)
P'raka ..

Awesome deli. Sandwiches are on the thick side (meaning a TON of meat on your sandwich) - I was hungry when I came so I was quite happy to see that they did not skimp on the deli meat. Good food, great coffee and fair prices. I would definitely come back.
(4)
Kappster Z.

We first caught this on No Reservations with its claim to be better than a NY deli with Anthony piggin' out and making wise cracks . I would have to agree. I love Jewish New York deli food but this was one of the best sandwich experience we ever had. First they didn't stack their meat higher than the bread itself and we could actually eat it as a sandwich. The sandwich came moist without saturating their fresh choices of bread. Fair price, 1st class quality, low key atmosphere and good portions. What else could you want?
(5)
Adam D.

Stop: don't order that deli plate for your event! I ordered deli for 35 to include Pastrami, Roast Beef, Corned Beef and Turkey. The Roast Beef was too well done and tasteless; there was no pastrami....apparently they thought it was ok to substitute salami. The potato salad and cole slaw was the usual..which most people don't eat anyway. We had to throw away 8 of the rolls because they were stale. AND we did not get the plates or napkins. I gave it two stars because the corned beef was good and the turkey was fine.
(2)
Amanda W.

Delicious sandwiches! What quality. Between the tiny, barely-pickled pickles and the not one but THREE kinds of potato salad... what more could you ask for? A New Yorker's sandwich in Boston. Or as close as I've found thus far. Warning: if you don't want to get a stern talking to, please sit down, eat your sandwich/salad/pickle/cream soda and leave. I think this is reasonable as seriously? it's a very busy lunch place. Go get on with your day!
(4)
Danielle S.

The Rachel is to die for. This is the best authentic Jewish deli in the area, hands down. Michael's is a hole in the wall and hard to miss if you're not looking carefully, but it's a must try. Everything is reasonably priced and there is seating available if you want to sit down. The place gets a little crowded during the lunch hour, but it's worth the wait every time.
(5)
Steve F.

They're not kidding. Best hot corned beef sandwiches around. Prices are a smidgen higher than your average sandwich shop...but you definately get what you pay for in quantity and quality. In response to an earlier review about the "No Cell Phone, No Book Policy". It's good that I can sit and enjoy my food there without someone hogging a seat just to loiter with a book. Those are people that should go to Starbucks where people pretend to be deep into their laptops but are instead scanning the room to check out everyone that comes in. The cell phone topic is a moot point. If you don't get that annoyance factor it's probably one of your own character hang-ups. Stick to more traditional hang-ups like knuckle-cracking, gum-smacking, nail-biting and that all too irritating "through the teeth", suck attempt at whistling to yourself that invades the ear canals of innocent hard-working people that can not easily escape your perimeter immediately.
(5)
Annie R.

what i wouldnt give for one of these sandwhiches. It is small and the table situation is awful, plus you are fighting it out with old people so you feel bad and give them your table anyways. Its best to get it to go. The corned beef tops all here. Michael himself is quite chatty, and always good for some social commentary. This is a MUST if you are near Boston.
(5)
Steve B.

I guess their 1/2 sandwich has shrunk considerably. Had I known I would've ordered the regular size. In the past the 1/2 sandwich was sufficiently packed. No more. Feh, I'll go to Zaftig's which is an overall more pleasing experience.
(2)
Ron S.

I always get the Rachel. This is seriously one of the best sandwiches you can get anywhere.
(5)
Paul W.

Haha! What a super place to grab our first meal in Boston. Nothing's better than a roast beef on rye on top of a moving box! My wife had a Reuben - which shocked me - she's not a Reuben-type if there is such a thing. Is it me, or are the sandwiches superior to anything you can find in Missouri? Folks were nicer than we thought too. They gave us a soft roll and cut-up bananas for the baby. Very sweet. A quick google search brought up this deli in my neighborhood via yelp.com . Thank's Michael's, thank you yelp.com ... TWO great discoveries in our first night in Brookline.
(5)
Alexander H.

New York Deli in Boston? Crazy you say? Yeah probably, but the corned beef sandwich was the best damn thing corned beef sandwich I've had in years so yeah. And big enough to feed two. 5 stars baby. Plus, you can actually meet Mike.
(5)
J S.

When doing a search on kosher, this shouldnt come up. They serve ham. Not kosher!
(1)
Sara M.

Even though I am Korean, St. Patrick's Day is one of my favorite holidays. Why? Because I absolutely love corned beef. Michael's Deli has the Reuben sandwich. It is warm and the sauce just drips past your fingers. It is quite large and I usually take the other half home even though I want to eat it all because it is so delectable. The half sour pickles are also good and I always steal my fiance's. I have had the potato salad but it wasn't exceptional. If you come here, get the Reuben and leave with a greasy smile on your face.
(4)
Albert D.

This place, no frills. Kick-ass pastrami, roast beef, and a simply-awesome whitefish salad. If anything, get the salad. It's so awesome, quite simply awesome.
(4)
Julie T.

I've had Michael's Deli a couple times and I'm finally ready to review this place. So my friend and I eat out a lot and it just so happens that he's my default person to call when I need someone to eat with me and I make the assumption that I am the same to him. He wanted a sandwich really badly that day and I was just really not in the mood, but being the fantastic, absolutely beautiful and amazing friend that I am, I gave in. He said he wanted to try Michael's Deli and I knew that the place was good. I'd been times before, but when you're not in the mood, well, you're just not in the mood. Whatever. Okay. We'll go. So we went. We got there. I told him it was cash only. He didn't believe me. We went inside. We walked back out. We went across the street. A car came. We ran. We nearly got hit. We went into the bank. We giggled because I didn't want to pay. He withdrew some money. We went back across the street. We went inside. As soon as we went back inside for the second time, i realized why I loved this place. Relatively small doorway, but people order quickly so they're out of the way in less than a minute. I went back and forth and couldn't figure out what to get, but in the end, he got the Rachel and I got the Reuben. (Note: Rachels have coleslaw in them and Reubens have sauerkraut.) With drinks and all, our lunch came to about $11 a piece. We got out of the doorway and the folks working were incredibly nice. We were about to sit at a seemingly clean table before a guy behind the deli counter ran over and cleaned it for us before we sat. We thanked him and only about five minutes later, both of our hot, steaming sandwiches were ready. Corned beef poured out of the sandwiches and as my friend picked up his sandwich and stuffed his face, I picked at my sandwich with a fork until it was more manageable. There was a perfect amount of Russian dressing and sandwiched in between the soft, dark pumpernickel, the sandwich was a delight to eat. We ate and ate and by the time he finished his sandwich, I had only eaten half, but we were both huffing and puffing. I normally eat only shy of what he eats, but for some reason, he looked at me and just knew that I was full to the brim. "You're not gonna eat that other half, are you?" "No, how'd you know?" "How could I not? These sandwiches are huge." He grimaced as I took a couple more bites, eating as much as I could before giving up. Our mess covered the table: used napkins, pieces of corned beef, and bits of his coleslaw and my sauerkraut enveloped the table. I gave up and after we cleared the table, we waddled our way to the door, stopping only to drop off our trash and waving the folks goodbye as we walked out the door, speed walking across the street to get on the bus all while talking about how full we were and the next time we'd be returning.
(4)
Diana L.

This one is dedicated to all the ladies. Because we rock. You see, most of us get awful food cravings about, oh, every month or so. Usually we crave foods that make us fat and bloated, like red meat, salt and chocolate. The universe likes to play cruel jokes on us. It's like, haha, looky. We made it socially unacceptable to be fat and then we gave these womenfolk all kinds of intense hormonal desires to eat things that make them fat. Oh that's funny. Now I don't know about you guys, but people are always trying to offer me steak when I get these cravings. It makes me very cranky. Why the heck would I want to sit here chewing on little bites of steak for half an hour, when I can be consuming an entire pound of roast beef in 8 minutes flat? It's nonsense. When I say I want red meat, I mean I want it NOW. This is where Michael's Deli comes in. It's like a beacon of hope shining down upon me when I am two seconds away from drizzling hot fudge over a cow and just gnawing on it. The people who work at Michael's ply you with all kinds of meat. Lots and lots of juicy, tender, flavorful meat. And they won't judge you if you order a sandwiche that is roughly the size of your head. They encourage it. I like to get the Howie, which is about 3/4 lbs of corned beef and another 1/4 lb or so of roast beef. The meat is incredibly delicate and just falls apart in your mouth. I like it on the pumpernickel bread with lettuce, onions, tomatoes, horseradish sauce, mayo and brown mustard. Day one, I eat half the sandwiche. Day two, I take some of the meat I've got left and throw it over scrambled eggs and toast. Later that night, I make the rest of it into French dip sandwich (remaining meat with cheese on a grilled baguette and some onion soup for dipping). That's three meals for about $10. Not too shabby, huh?
(5)
Arf A.

On the recommendation of reviewers and friends I decided to order the rachel as my first experience here. It left me somewhat disappointed. My goal was to really taste the corned beef but I sabotaged myself with this sandwich. Corned beef cheese coleslaw and russian dressing. Not surprised by the components but by the texture and amounts of condiments. Basically two mayo based dressings coat the mouth and unfortunately the whole thing devolved into a soggy mess that just tastes like mayo and not a lot like corned beef. To be fair I've had this type of sandwich before and loved it , i think just dial back the dressings, but I probably should have tried a plain corn beef to really judge it. Transaction and service were fine and I was surprised by the creativity of the menu when i got there (dirty sandwiches with chips on them, pumpkin pie knishes) which I wish was represented better on the website. Prices are high and sandwich was decent but not "large". For comparison's sake Zaftigs same reuben type is much larger a good 50% more meat, tastes better and includes fries for only a couple bucks more. All told I'm definitely going to go back to try some other things on the menu but i would advise against the rachel. I'll happily give more stars based on what else I try, but might be a while as prices are prohibitive enough that it won't be a work-day regular.
(3)
Claire N.

The Rachel (a rueben with cole slaw) is delcious. So are the pickels. YUM!!!!
(5)
Shannon F.

I had some business in Coolidge Corner today and i got hungry! I walked into Michael's Deli after noticing their "Phantom Gourmet" banner hanging proudly on their storefront. I took a quick look around for a "people love us on yelp" sticker, but didn't see one anywhere and figured I'd take the chance anyway. I ordered a turkey sandwich and then saw their old register and realized they probably don't take cards. I should have known, as the place really did just look like a classic deli- the kind you can only find in old neighborhoods like the one i was in. I told the guy I didn't have cash and I had to run to the atm. I thought for sure that when i got back, I'd have to wait in line and order again, but to my surprise, my sandwich was ready for me on the counter! There was a boat-load of turkey on the sandwich. It was a nice sandwich... nothing spectacular, nothing out of this world, just a nice turkey sandwich. I chose to ignore the signs next to every single table that said "Please do not read in our dining room" Hello?! I was eating alone, and i'm reeeeally into my book. I was NOT willing to follow the rules. I tried not to lolly-gag, and I went on my way. Next time I'm in C.C and i'm in the mood for a sandwich, I might stop in and try something a little more adventurous.
(3)
Michael A.

Great Kosher food! I love the sandwiches.
(5)
J G.

The food is why people come here and it is the best. No doubt in my mind. You get what you pay for.
(5)
Michael C.

Went here for the second time yesterday and had their current special. The first time I went I wasn't super impressed with my sandwich, but this time I wished I had order two. The sandwich was awesome and I will definitely be coming back on a more regular basis. I also suggest trying their different sodas.
(4)
Adam E.

No lie, I went in here today and the prick behind the counter bitched me out for using my debit card. He went on and on about how he "hates accepting them for less than $12," and only does because it's the law. AND THEN, he yelled to the guy making sandwiches- "Credit Card, you know what to do," and the guy made my sandwich about 50% of what it usually is. I am dizzyingly irate and will never, ever go back to Michael's, even if I have cash in my pocket. What a bunch of assholes.
(1)
Jeff B.

Mike was ready to close the place up at 10 minutes before 3pm on a Sunday afternoon, yet he let us in and told us to take our time. The Reuben sandwich had about a pound of the freshest, best tasting corned beef I had ever had. The place is small, yet comfortable. I enjoyed the looks of the vintage display coolers. I also like any place where you can get a can of orange San pellegrino. do work baby!
(5)
Katherine W.

I love this place, easy to get take-out and perfect for a quick bite on the weekends. I am a sucker for the fresh nova on a bagel (their bagels are delicious), but every once in a while I will get a Reuben (no 'kraut) which is also delicious, albeit messier. I love how friendly and efficient everyone that works here is. They may not know our names, but we feel welcome every time. And on a side note, a nice older gentleman told my boyfriend and I that we should get married... ;)
(5)
Jamie N.

Oh no! I'm in Brookline, I only have ten bucks in my pocket, and I am STARVING. Think quick! Finagle my ass on a Bagel? Bruegger's Bagels? Hmm...I'm starting to notice a trend about this town. Overpriced Indian places? Too expensive. Sushi? No. I want a sanwich, a big, juicy, sandwich. Have no fear, Michael's Deli is here! Go to Coolidge Corner. Walk less than a block down Harvard. There he is! Don't miss it - this is a small corner deli, the kind I always dreamed of as a small child in Pennsylvania with desires for non-Subway sandwich shops and a sandwich big enough to take up every inch of room in my California Raisans lunch box. Michael is behind the counter most of the time. You'll recognize him because he is large, in charge, and nice as can be. This dude wants to feed you. Now, check out the black forest ham sandwich. It's big! It's bold! Get it with Italian dressing, chips, and chow down on that pickle. Michael's Deli is the first place I have enjoyed a pickle in my life. The man knows dill. Once you order your sandwich and it is speedily plopped on the high meat counter in front of you, thank Michael, open mouth, insert sandwich. Smile and enjoy.
(5)
Zizzles A.

This was one of my favorite lunch spots last year when I only took two classes and had all the time in the world. A reuben or pastrami reuben here, some ice cream maybe, a quick check of the sales rack at the booksmith, and then a couple of hours at barnes and noble. That was an average afternoon for me. It sucks though now that I'm swamped, I can't go to my beloved coolidge corner as often anymore. The deli items are pretty good. I'm no conisseur, but the chopped liver is about as good as Zaftigs, and it seems like it's a bit cheaper. They have tasty potato salad and knishes also. Of course, my favorite thing there will always be the pastrami or corned beef reuben. steamed pastrami or corned beef on toasted or untoasted (kind of strange that they change it up sometimes depending on the guy you get, but I like it either way) dark rye, a heap of saurerkraut and just the right amount of sweet russian dressing (I hate it when people put too much). Wow. 8 dollars, so it's not cheap, but not exactly expensive either considering how much corned beef you get. At one point I went once or twice a week, and got to know Mike and some of the other guys that worked there. They never had a problem with me using my credit card on an 8 dollar sandwich. In fact, they usually don't even make me sign the receipt. It's stupid that I've been here so many times, and yet I haven't tried the tongue or the thanksgiving sandwich. I have tried the ken jaffe, seeing my beloved chopped liver in it. A big mistake. It was too freaking big for one, but it was also extremely heavy. A thick...thick layer of chopped liver and over a half a pound of meat? Yeah...not a good idea. I prefer the regular meat portion and the nice kraut. I'm a quiet, and slightly awkward person, but the staff has always made small talk with me anyway. They explain their favorites, and talk about random things like the Tibetan riots? haha. God I miss this place.
(4)
Daniel H.

Heaping sandwiches and Pearl brand all beef franks make Michael's Deli a supreme lunch spot. Personally, I really don't like Michael (the owner). He is full of himself, is rather belittling towards his customers, and loves to make a point. His business makes up for this deficit. Those who work for him have always been friendly and make up for Michael's lack of social awareness. The deli itself has few tables, so be prepared to put your time in for a table if you are heading over there on the weekend lunch rushes. Michael's is not someplace where you'd sit and have a nice leisurely lunch and enjoy good company. Chances are another customer eagerly awaiting a table will promptly shoot you the hairy eyeball as you near the end of your meal. You are at Michael's to simply enjoy a magnificent sandwich and get on with the rest of your day (provided you don't eat yourself into the ground). Parking can be difficult since the deli is barely a block away from Coolidge Corner, so you'll have to be cut-throat. Recommendations: *Pickles *Pearl hotdog on a bulkie roll or challah with slaw and muenster *Hot corned beef on challah with muenster, mayo and a side of honey mustard for dipping. Note: the kinishes are "bleh," but I've never really met one I liked, and I suppose I never really acquired a taste for them. I'm not jewish.
(4)
Sarah C.

Favorite deli! Such great value for your money. Romanian pastrami, corned beef, and chopped liver are the only ones I've had so far, but they're too good to stray. Like 4 different kinds of mustard to pick from, lots of bread choices, plus the usual fixins. Not very many tables, but the crowd turns quickly, so eat there or take it home. AND they have Moxie! Oh, it's kind of hilarious how they ration the napkins (they give you one for your big, messy sandwich), but I'm over it :)
(5)
Dave B.

Not much to say...great food marred by an owner with a serious attitude problem. He seems to think the way to prove it's authentic deli is to give his best impression of a "rude New Yorker." Seriously, man...give it a rest and lighten up.
(3)
Dave G.

Michael's reminds me of the little deli that used to be across the street from my girlfriend's old apartment. They're the kind of place that's really no-frills, but what they do, they do VERY well. The food is always tasty and their sandwiches are huge. The only reason that I didn't give Michael's five stars is because the first time I ordered a meatball sub there, I got food poisoning. But, on the assurance of a friend that it was an isolated incident, I went back and every single time I've been there since everything has been great.
(4)
M T.

The worst service ever in the city. I'm even considering on calling Boston Magazine to revoke their 2010 Best of Boston win. I tried this place for lunch with a coworker. Sandwich was just good, not amazing, which is fine. Guy behind the counter, I bet it's Michael, forced us out of our chairs because I was eating and writing on a notebook at the same time. We were barely there for 15 mins eating, talking and working at the same time. When we got up, he said in the background, "just eat and get out." There's an excuse for bad food, but there's no excuse for rude service. Don't even give this guy a penny of your wallet.
(1)
Sasha B.

The best rubin you'll find in Boston. They bring their meat in from NY- I like that they just know to go with the best. It comes out warm and delicious, and with a homemade pickle. Basically, if you want to get a deli sandwich, come to Michael's.
(5)
Hiroko S.

Coolidge corner has a lot of sandwich choices including chain places. Don't forget about this place when you decide your sandwich lunch. Michael's has great quality and volume. I just uploaded corned beef sandwich picture. You will know how it is great. Even though it was half size of sandwich. Good enough amount of meats to make me happy.
(4)
kaif t.

Friendly service and a solid selection. A nice change from all of the fast food in Birghton and Brookline. Freshly made, fast service. Huge fan of the mango chicken salad that's dressed to order on your choice of breads. The sandwiches are quite large so bring your appetite. Usually I'm buying for groups when I go so I'm impressed that no one in my party of 2-4 every few weeks don't seem to ahve any complaints.
(4)
Aaron B.

Warning, stay away from the whitefish salad. Mike himself mixes it up from cocaine, nicotine, caffeine, and whitefish. It could be the worlds most addictive substance. I can't pass through Coolidge Corner without stopping by and picking up a pound for the road. And that lasts about a day. The corned beef and pastrami sandwhiches are huge and melt in your mouth delicious. The one thing keeping this from 5 stars is the bread. Mike, you GOTTA do something about the bread. Its not the best to begin with, and gets soggy the minute it hits the beef. Its the one thing keeping this from being in the annals of corned beef sandwich lore. Everything is homemade/mixed/smoked etc by Mike himself, and all the guys behind the counter are very friendly. I wish I was around there for lunch enough to become a regular.
(4)
Chris K.

Delicious corned beef reubens and rachels. Couldn't ask for more meat in a sandwich. Stupid rules about no reading at the tables inside and the owner is not willing to accept credit/debit cards probably because he doesnt want to pay the small amount that the companies charge him to use the card machine. If you can look past this they have the best sandwiches around - I just had the Thanksgiving Sandwich on toasted Rye today and it was exquisite, much better than the pre-packaged meat I would have had to endure at Quiznos/Brueggers/Panera. Definitely worth your money
(4)
Sarah W.

I feel like Michael's is one of those places in Coolidge that you could just walk by a million times before really noticing it's there, but you will absolutely thank yourself for going in. Delish, classic Jewish deli. The Thanksgiving and Mango Chicken Salad sandwiches are my favorites on the menu, soooo good. Knishes are tasty too, and the matzo ball soup is better than you'd expect! (Only because I've found so much sub-par matzo ball soup in my lifetime...) Awesome place, and a great way to support independent businesses in the neighborhood.
(4)
Andrew T.

I would eat Jewish Deli food every meal of my life if I could. Corned beef sandwich, a pickle, a side of potato salad, and a Dr Browns cream soda. What's better? Nothing. Michaels is a no frills deli just across from Trader Joes, on Harvard Ave. As soon as you walk in, it smells like good Jewish deli food. Knishes, corned beef, Dr Browns sodas (including celray), potato salad, lox, giant breakfast sandwiches, etc etc etc. All good, all big portions. Service is brisk and friendly, but just don't linger at one of the few tables in the place after you have finished eating. If others are waiting, the staff will give you the bum's rush out, which is totally reasonable if you think about it. Just know it is coming, and you won't be offended.
(4)
Sweet T.

Sandwiches are large, which is nice - but def. better to get them to go, since, although there is seating, it's not a great atmosphere to eat in. Sort of dark with black walls. Seems to me like the main purpose of this place is to be a meat counter, and they just happen to serve sandwiches on the side.
(3)
Sofia H.

i finally made it over to michael's the other week after months of biking right by it. I loved it straight off the bat because as you enter it smelled exactly like the delicatessen/bottega that I grew up going to back in Italy- the incredible smell of great cold cuts, cheeses and just that same type of style of serving (btw this place is NOT at all italian, i'm just comparing it to childhood memories...) the smoked turkey sandwich I had was not only huge but it was also amazing. Their honey mustard was unlike anything else I've tried with any meat and it all tasted so fresh. Also, the number of options you have are countless whether you want to get a 'signature' sandwich or make your own. I would highly highly recommend this place if you're on the go and if you want some great cold cuts in brookline!
(4)
Rob O.

Great deli sandwiches . Had the rachel here and was not disappointed.
(4)
Kyle S.

Wow, the corned beef sandwich here is absolutely unreal. I had never tried one before going here, and I can't wait until the next time I can stop by for another.
(5)
Nathan P.

I'm a firm believer that good food doesn't make up for bad service and this place is a classic example. Basically in my experience the service is as bad as the food is good. If you're in the mood for a good Reuben and rude service then this is your place! And please, whatever you do, don't dare read or consider using a credit card at this place. Try it and you'll find out why!
(2)
D S.

Being able to go to Michael's Deli is one of the great privileges of living in Coolidge Corner, and the people who work there won't let you forget it. CASH ONLY DO NOT READ IN OUR DINING ROOM I love it! I feel like an elite part of Coolidge Corner society because I am no longer given a dirty look from behind the counter when I walk in. You have to earn respect at this deli, and it is well worth the wait. The food here tastes like what food at a real deli should taste like! The tuna is delicious, as it is the pastrami and corned beef... hands down, the best in the area. They also have great bagels and cream cheese, knish, potato salad and a freezer case that looks interesting, but I must say that I have yet to investigate. They are closed on Mondays, so don't even bother... and they close early in the day every day.... but elitism and odd hours aside, get yourself in here and enjoy an almost alarmingly large and delicious sandwich! (With a killer pickle on the side.) Ok, now I am salivating and it's 4pm... they are totally closed. I'm screwed.
(4)
David L.

Been there several times (Bummer that they close before I get home from work on weekdays though!) and the sandwiches were good...REALLY good! I had the corned beef on rye the first time there (their specialty) and I wolfed it down in a matter of minutes. I kind of wish I hadn't, but it was hard to stop! I've also had the smoked turkey and their breakfast bagel with lox, both were great as well but the corned beef is definitely the highlight! I might stop by sometime before work in the morning to pick up breakfast too, more worth it than buying at work or at a chain.
(4)
Bret C.

Visited and tried the corned beef sandwich. Decent and good- nothing to write home about. Bread was fantastic, and yes, there was a bit too much meat on the sandwich. I've heard a few other things are good too, I'll try again next time. Just kind of an "okay" rating from me.
(3)
Arian A.

When we think of the years we lived in Brookline this place always brings back good memories of GREAT sandwiches. Everytime we went in the owner Michael was manning the register and always had something "smart" to say .. we loved it! Best corned beef on light rye I have ever had. Yum Yum.
(4)
Sophia Y.

This place may be great but they do NOT deliver. I was trying to buy some food for friend whose husband just died and they wouldn't do it. I'm in SF, so obviously, I can't deliver. "too busy"
(3)
Stockton M.

We don't have much better in Brookline, surprisingly despite the local clientelle. The place is ok, but they claim that they have "authentic" NYC style everything. It is a giveaway that it's not all that good...just like when a place puts up a sign that says "Fine Dining." They have an insecurity problem here and that is reflected in their bad attitude to customers with arrogance and unwillingness to help. The corned beef is touted but turns out to be not very tasty and poorly trimmed of fat. The sandwiches are not as big or as tasty if only as expensive as would be found in NYC. They do have the classic Dr. Brown's sodas, but again they overprice them. You could try the Butcherie up Harvard Ave, which has more substance but less style (multiple types of corned beef and pastrami but nowhere to sit there). The Butcherie is also closed on Saturday.
(2)
Nadia K.

Got the Rachel's corned beef sandwich. It's damn good. Michael is a bit of a prick, but I'm also not looking for his opinion on my choices and know better than to ask questions to someone like him. Just come in and order and have your cash ready because it is cash only and he doesn't have an ATM inside the store. The corned beef was fantastic, a little more fat that I generally like to have, but I have to remember I'm not at Katz's deli in NYC and therefore you're just not going to find perfection. It was pretty close though.
(4)
Kim Z.

I have been searching for the best ever lox cream cheese for 32+ years. I have found it. HUGE piece of lox in every other bite and only $6.99/lb. The breakfast sandwiches are not only reasonably priced, but so much more delicious than Bruegger's across the street. They come on an english muffin, but you can get it on a plain, sesame or everything bagel (which I always do!). The eggs are fresh and fluffy and the bacon is crisp and flavorful. And they have Dr. Brown's soda! Oh how I love Dr. Brown's. I'm not a knish person, but if you are, I noticed they had pastrami knishes - an original Michael's creation and their best seller.
(5)
Hunnie j.

I was looking for a light, flavorful sandwich and walked out feeling like I had just eaten three borderline bland but overwhelmingly filling thanksgiving dinners. My beef sandwich was very heavy - bordering on greasy - and although the meat was tender, the flavor was lacking. It was a decent sandwich but nothing I would come back for.
(3)
Brian Aaron J.

One of the worst things about leaving the Boston area was not being able to come here *sigh* . Obviously a place the has a sign that says "Corned Beef King" or whatever better have a corned beef sandwich, and they actually do and its quite large and king-ish. And its very good, and very cheap and very very a lot of meat, ok I'll stop using very now. Also I would almost get on a plane to have the Lox n' bagel with capers, onions and tomatoes, wow so great. I love this place. Salmon is from Nova Scotia, which apparently has super salmon or something.
(5)
M L.

Why is it that I didn't know they sold half sandwiches until the week before I moved away from Coolidge Corner? Oh, the irony. In any case, great sandwiches but they're huge, so probably worth splitting or getting a half sandwich for lunch. The knishes are good too.
(5)
Ali A.

I went home for the holidays and was craving something old school, something piled high - Michael's delivered with the fist full of food that you remember the next day & the day after, because it was just that good. A local mom & pop shop - not some copy/paste chain. The deli is small, they spice and cure their own meats, they're not pretentious ... everything just works and for $7 who can complain? Oh man, I'm getting hungry... The Romanian Pastrami was kickin... lamb, not beef - cooked in a great brine - with waves of flavor and black peppered edges, shaved just right. Like all good delis they serve it steamin' ~ oh man I want one now! Snag a pickled green tomato if you've never had one, skip the potato salad.... and yes, the guy workin the register is named Mike. See ya next holiday my man. - Alz
(4)
Sally S.

Extremely great deli! My suggestion - get to know Michael. He's a super friendly guy and loves to learn about what you do and where you're from and can share some great local Boston stories! A+ Ruben Rachel!!
(5)
Rebecca H.

This is another one of those situations where I want to lie and say, "this place is rancid and HORRIBLE" just so it's already small space doesn't become even more flooded with salivating yelpers gunning for one of their exquisite sandwiches. Seriously, Boston, why even bother having au bon pains and Paneras when you can have sandwich shops like this. Without fail, I always get a good meal here. Usually I order a half turkey with mustard, lettuce, tomato, and onion on pumpernickel with the chicken soup. And man, it's perfect every single time. Being a girl has its advantages as they always hand me my sandwich and say, "Shh, don't tell, I made this bigger than we're supposed to." And you get winked at and complimented a lot. Which, if you're too uppity, can feel kinda leery, but honestly it's part of the charm of this place. It makes it homegrown instead of sterilized. You can buy their meats and cheeses by the pound, which I completely recommend. Bah! I love this place!
(5)
Katie R.

Had a great bagel and lox here. Everyone else enjoyed their food. The place was totally empty, and we sat at one of the tables to eat. As soon as we were done eating, the worker came over and asked us to leave, even though the other 3-4 tables were completely empty. This is absolutely no way to treat customers. We spent good money, and of course would have left if the place had been busy. The food was great, but I won't go back.
(1)
Shannon S.

This place is delicious but completely easy to walk by it's so small and unassuming. But! It's so New York that Boston people don't know what to do with it. Fresh, awesome deli meat, cheap--affordable--delicious. It's pretty straight forward--huge deli counter about 8 tables, somewhat dark and narrow area, the owner is a New York guy with a sort of in-your face friendly directness. A bagel with fresh cream cheese is 1.50 and a Sausage, Egg and Cheese bagel is 2.00--an awesome price and a HEAPING breakfast sandwich. Love their Chicken salad. It's small, real, straight-forward--and if you want real, fresh, great deli meat--they know it at Michael's Deli--and you know if the meat is awesome, the sandwiches (all fresh--baked bread--gigantic in size) will be just what you need almost any day.
(4)
Erik G.

Never will you have a better Reuben sandwich than at Michael's. Corn beef piled high, awesome Russian dressing, and fresh-made bread... hot damn, that's good sandwich. Also, they're the only place in Boston that knows how pickles are supposed to be done, and they have tremendous pickled herring. The Reuben gets five stars, but other things here can be a little inconsistent. I had a Pig Out Sandwich (roast pork, cranberry sauce, and stuffing on light rye) that I would describe as 'meh', and their cold sandwiches can vary greatly from day to day. Still, if you're a seeker of corned beef, look no further. The owner is there most days, and though he'll originally strike you as cantankerous/crotchety, he's actually a really nice guy, who'll treat you right once he gets to know your face. Try to hit the place at off-peak hours, since they've only got seating for about 12 people, and the lunch line is consistently out the door.
(4)
Kristin S.

Mike's is definitely good, I mean everything is imported from NY! The knishes are just like I used to get in my school cafeteria (and thats a good thing!) but its probably because they come from the same supplier. So do you give Mike credit for a good deli or being a good importer? I'm not sure. Regardless, Michael himself is a super nice and funny, so even if you can't credit him for the amazing imported food, he's still a good guy. The reubens are fantastic even if they spell it rubin. (Although the bread should be a tad thicker- its gets very soggy very quickly) And of course I check to see if they have Snapple which they don't.....they did have Dr. Browns Celery Soda which made my husband's day. All in all this has to be one of the top choices you have when you're looking for lunch in Brookline. They also do a great job with catering, my friend gets the platters for football games every Sunday.
(4)
Barney B.

Holy pile of meat, Batman. exactly what a deli should be. secluded and off from the typical foot traffic of Coolidge Corner, but those few extra steps get you to some good eats. Sure you have choices in the area for sandwiches - Quizno's, Panera, etc - but they all suck and this place definitely blows them away in taste, quantity and quality.
(4)
Kathryn S.

After watching Anthony Bourdain review some places in Boston I decided to go to Michaels Deli on Harvard St in Brookline. I was with a friend and we both ordered the NY Corned Beef Sandwich on pumpernickel. We sat at one of the few tables in front of the meat and salad case. I was shocked to see the meat just thrown in the meat case on display totally unwrapped. The salads all on display with no covers on them either. Looked like deli cases needed a good cleaning...I was disgusted by the cleanliness of this place. The Health Dept should take a good look at the condition of the foods,how there are stored and the hygiene of this establishment. I would grade this place with a big red C on the window!!
(1)
Ken B.

This is a straight forward deli. Little room for eating, but they make delicious sandwiches. I am a fan of the Rachel. Yummy Corned Beef and Coleslaw.
(4)
Adam C.

Pure heaven. You get every bit of quality, flavor, and the expected Boston service at Michael's. I used to eat here once a week, if not more. Within the Brookline area, I rate it as the best place to eat. Hands down. Big portions, great old country appeal. Love it.
(5)
Lynn H.

This is a delicious deli that has managed to secure a pretty solid fan base in Coolidge Corner, the epicenter of many a Jewish deli in Brookline. I love that they have a half-sandwich option because their portions are huge and sometimes I just don't have time to take a nap after lunch. The last time I was there with friends I sampled a bite of each person's sandwich and I'm happy to report that the turkey, pastrami, corned beef, roast beef, and white fish salad are all excellent choices! I'd suggest asking to have your sandwich toasted because it only makes it more delicious. Also, FYI there isn't very much seating in the place so it may be best to take your order to go if possible.
(4)
Michael C.

As close to a NYC Deli that you'll find near Boston. The corned beef is melting in my mouth as I write....mmmmmmm good!
(5)
Dan S.

Terrific corned beef sandwiches and Rubens. BUT...no potato pancakes, no blintzes? Get on the ball, Mikey.
(4)
Jenny N.

Michael's doesn't joke around with the meats. They roast their own and it's quality fo' sure. While this ain't no fancy-pants "sandwich bar," they do offer a mango chicken salad that sat next to three kinds of potato salad in the deli case. I actually ordered a really tasty "Thanksgiving sandwich" filled with thinly sliced turkey breast, real cranberry sauce and stuffing--all this in between two soft and thick slices of bread, which amounted to a 3-inch high creation. I have to admit that I'm not a fan of the pickles they serve here--but maybe I just got a bad one, as it tasted pretty fishy for a vegetable. Oh, and the sweet potato knish is a perfect brunch food! One last note: If you are a true glutton, try the 3 lb. "Bostonian" (turkey, corned beef & pastrami). And yes, they actually weigh this sandwich to make sure there is the correct amount of meat in there. I'm still not convinced it is worth $15, but it is surely the most ginormous meat+bread creation I have ever laid eyes on. I witnessed a guy eat this, and thankfully, he did not die of cardiac arrest. Michael's gets one extra star from me because it has old-fashioned neighborhood charm. I mean, you know it's gotta be good when you see the local cops belly up to the counter!
(4)
Jordan K.

Yum. One of the things I miss about Boston.
(5)
Ryan J.

Food was really good. One of the workers was a little grumpy. Sort of reminded me of the soup Nazi. I'll be back though.
(4)
sal k.

Yes, the guys an a-hole, but no it doesn't make this place terrible. The sour tomatoes and pickles are absolutely to die for, and the corned beef can't be beat. The pastrami is really good too. IMO, your better off ordering meats and sides and buying bread somewhere else to make your own sandwich. Clearflour bread with corned beef and cole slaw is an amazing combo.
(4)
Andrew B.

When it comes to lunch, nothing beats a huge, freshly cut deli meat sandwich. That's what Michael's has to offer. When you walk in, there is someone waiting to take your order and hand you a sandwich. Once you enter further though, you see the long deli meat counter that stretches towards the back wall and realize that they focus on providing good deli meat, sandwiches were the next logical step. If you want to make your own sandwiches, they offer their deli meats and reasonable per pound prices.
(3)
Kylie S.

I ordered the tuna melt but received a tuna sandwich instead so I was pretty disappointed. I should have pointed this out but chose to just eat it. The tuna salad was good--they use good mayonnaise and albacore tuna. The service was not especially friendly and I didn't love the atmosphere. They do have really good sodas--IBC rootbeer and DR. Browns. And they sell frozen blintzes. And I'll bet if I ate corned beef I'd be crazy about this place.
(3)
Jessica C.

Whole in the wall deli with exceptional quality and service. Don't mess around with anything else but the corned beef. Yum! And enjoy the giant pickle on the side. Make sure you pack a mighty appetite too as the portions are HUGE! I'd plan to eat in but be ready to take it out as there aren't many seats inside... This is the kind of place where even the workers can't help themselves - the food is so good that I once saw the guy that slices the meats sneak a bit and then look over his shoulder to make sure no one saw... but I saw... and I don't blame him. It's delish. ;)
(5)
Ricky B.

Terriffic corned beef! I even had a potato knish that was delicious. They claim to have the BEST corned beef in Boston...they might just be right! Try Michael's!
(4)
KZ B.

Love their portions, Mike is always funny at the register. I enjoy going to Michael's Deli on the weekend when we're in town. See you next weekend!
(5)
Michael W.

Michael's Deli rocks, it is well known to the Coolidge Corner Community, but I don't know about the rest of Boston. The place seems to be hidden even thought its right near the corner of Beacon and Harvard. Sandwiches are piled high with freshly roasted meats from Michael's kitchen and the salads and knishes are great. His bagels are imported from H&H Bagels in NYC and they are the best. Take some frozen ones home and have fresh bagels every morning. If you looking for a real turkey club hit up Michael's don't bother waiting in that line for Zaftigs....
(5)
Steve W.

You have tried the rest now try the best. Micheal's Deli is the Bomb!!! Best knishes this side of chelsea. Everything is fresh and delish!! Corned beef brought in from ny and cooked on site. Ask and he will let ypu sample anything in the house, if u dont like he willnot push it on you, example if you think the corned beef s dry he will open another for you. Bread brought in fresh daily!! My copliments to the chef!!! keep that corned beef comming.
(5)
T D.

This is by far the best Reuben sandwich I have ever had. While visiting Boston, I made the trek to Michael's Deli just for their sandwiches. It was fantastically huge and so, so good. Just two days later I had a Reuben at the infamous Katz Deli in NYC which didn't come close to what I ate at Michael's Deil. The place is small and in need of some updates, but the sandwiches cannot be beat! You rock my world Michael's Deli!
(5)
Randall K.

Man, Michaels Reuben sandwich is just piled high with juicy, melt in your math corned beef, and is always accompanied with a pickle. Finish all of this off with a Dr Brown soda and you have one of the best places to eat in Boston!
(5)
Allison B.

so, i really want to give this place another shot before i fully commit to this middle-of-the-road review. + high quality. freshly sliced deli meat, soft, delicious bread. + reasonable price. i believe they charge by the pound here, so what you see is really what you get, in terms of price. + small business. gotta love em. the owner is totally nice too. - im a borderline sandwich snob, and the only gripe i have about micheal's is that the sandwiches are meat heavy. meat obese. meat mountains. for some people, that's a one-way ticket to heaven. but i had to take half of the meat off and put it on its own bread later when i got home, and all the while i was wishing for a little lettuce, tomato, pickles, sprouts -- something! -- to interrupt the overwhelming quanitity of meat. that being said, this review is in limbo, because i think someone else ordered for me. thus, it is subject to editing upon re-trial (i'm optimistic!)
(3)
kevin l.

When you go to Michael's Deli for the first time you have to choose the Reuben as your first sandwich. It's perfect. I checked out their website before going there ( delitogo.com ) and I was sold on their Reuben the moment I saw the picture. Something about their sandwiches tastes so clean and fresh compared to other deli's. (Sorry for the So Cal reference but) Michael's Deli is like the In-and-Out of all hamburger places! Their sandwiches are REALLY big! Enough for two people to share. And I love the homemade pickles! If you've got the craving for good deli then this is the place to go.
(5)
Steve S.

This place doesn't eeven have a kitchen. That says it all. He just orders cold cuts and slices them up. You'd be better off going to the super market bring home yor pastrami, corned beef etc. and doing it yourself.
(1)
E D.

Best chicken salad EVER! Love Mike's Deli!
(5)
Allison M.

Downside: No breakfast and brunch food after noon. Upside: Roast beef sandwiches and tuna melts at Michael's still taste good as the first meal of the day. The sandwiches are delicious, despite the "hole-in-the-wall" appearance, and the atmosphere is overall comforting. If you want a scrumptious, no-frills experience, Michael's is a good choice for you (and your wallet).
(4)
Jason M.

Best Jewish deli in the area. (Zaftigs is a tourist trap).
(5)
A. T.

Michael isn't a jerk, he's just Bostonian -- well, from Marblehead, actually. The corned beef here beats Slyman's (Cleveland) by a hair, and easily beats any smoked meat sandwich I've eaten in Montreal. Don't get take-out, because by the time you get home the coleslaw/sauerkraut will render your Rachel/Reuben a squishy mess.
(5)
Michelle P.

Egg sandwiches. Go.
(5)
Ken C.

Being an ex-new yorker, I'm a bit of a snob when it comes to deli (pizza as well of course, but that's another story). Living in Washington Square, I used to go to the B&D Deli all the time, but after it changed ownership it really went downhill, resulting in the empty storefront it is today. So I was psyched when Michaels opened, allthough skeptical, being dissappointed so many times with the Bostonian preparation of corned beef and pastrami (throw it on the grill). I ordered the reuben, and soon heard the wonderful sound of the steamer - the proper way to heat up these glorious meats. I could tell as soon as the plate was put in front of me that my prayers had been answered. This is the real deal. Dare i say, better than some places I've been to in NY. The corned beef and pastrami are top notch. However, the sleeper is the meatball foot long sandwich. Better than just about any italian joint/sub shop save for a few North End spots. Highly recommended, and for $6.99, a killer deal. The thanksgiving sandwich is great as well, don't forget to get mayo on it though, or it can be a bit dry. Mango Chicken salad is another unique offering that sounds kinda funny but is awesome. The guys can be a bit stressed and grumpy sometimes, (after all, it is a Jewish deli!) but just give it back to them and they will lighten up. I particularly like gawking at the hot chicks that walk by with Michael while waiting for my sandwich. And you've gotta love the "No Reading" signs everywhere! This place is not for everyone (re: uptight New Englanders) but if you can get into the spirit of it, you will be back again and again.
(4)
A Z.

I am absolutely befuddled by the positive reviews of this place. My Italian sandwich was thoroughly unimpressive. Bland partially stale bread with meat that tasted like it was from a high school cafeteria.
(1)
Vivian S.

Wow, this man behind the counter has to be the rudest man I've met in the past year or years. I picked up a drink and was looking at the sandwich menu when he suddenly told me he was closed at 5: 40pm. I don't think this is a normal closing hour. He must have been a manager which I would think usually try to please the customer. I was in the middle of getting rung up for my drink when he says he was closed. If you live in Brookline, please don't go here as I have never seen such awful rudeness in Boston. ( I thought it was the drivers were bad but now the "rudeness flu" apparently hit this ugly little deli in Coolidge Corner. This is such a nice area that the deli doesn't belong with it's poor manners. Shame on MR. checkout at the deli! I hope he gets some rudeness back as a taste of his own medicine!
(1)
steve c.

After reading the wildly overrated reviews of Michael's deli I am more convinced then ever that Boston is in dire need of a real deli. This place is mediocre at best and wouldn't last for 2 minutes in any area in a 90 mile radius of NYC. Michael (assuming that is the name of the charmless owner) is an arrogant prick who purveys average corned beef and pastrami to folks obviously so starved for the real items that they are willing to put up with his third rate soup nazi act. If you are looking for a real deli, the closest in the area is Rubin's. They serve a full array of traditional deli fare (e.g. matzo ball soup), they are nice and their food is pretty good. None of these places is the Second Avenue Deli or Katz's, but that is not Boston's forte. At least Rubin's tries, dealing with Michael's is trying.
(1)
Marcia F.

If you like corned beef or pastrami, you'll love this little place. Their pickles are also great. They pile on so much meat that you can order a half sandwich if you aren't super hungry. Once you try Michael's, you won't go anywhere else for deli! Oh yeah, the prices are much more reasonable than any of the other nearby deli places.
(5)
Molly S.

I agree that the sandwiches are good. I just had one today but the person at the deli counter -- who I believe is the owner -- was so rude to me today that I will never go back! There is a sign that says no reading but I needed to study for a test. So I asked another guy behind the counter if it was ok. He specifically said that it would be fine and that that sign was there for customers who stay for hours when it's really busy. Well it wasn't really busy, and I wasn't planning to stay for more then 15 minutes or so after finishing my sandwich. So after I ate my sandwich, I took my book out and within 10 minutes the owner came by, asked if I was done to which I replied yes. And then he said, "Well, would please move because I have customers who need this table and the sign says NO READING!" I tried to explain that I had already asked a person behind the counter if it would be ok but he had none of it. He basically kicked me out for studying after maybe 10 minutes. I should add that there were two other tables available for this one customer! I left completely offended and decided never to go back. Keep in mind that if you decide to go for the sandwiches in all likelihood it will not be a pleasant experience.
(2)
Ben P.

(at least in Brookline) this is the greatest deli around. The yuppies of Brookline flock to Zaftig's....but anybody with a decent set of tastebuds knows that Michael's is where to go if you want a real deli sandwich. All Zaftig's has going for it is a nicer interior, more tables, and longer hours. Granted, all those things are great - but the food is what matters for me. When I need corned beef, pastrami, a reuben, chopped liver - whatever...it's Michael's for me. One fault - their hours suck. They close at 5pm.
(5)
Eric W.

I suppose if I really knew delis, I'd be with you. As it is, this is fine, but hardly worth traveling to. Maybe it's just that saying something is better because it comes from New York turns me off. I'm glad I tried it once, but I have no inclination to return. My sandwich was a little dry and too tall to bite; if you have to deconstruct a sandwich to eat it, it seems to me someone missed the point. The meat was excellent, though, and I might have loved it had it been presented in another form. My girlfriend's Reuben was better and more impressive. I almost moved to Brookline, but I'm glad I didn't, because no one there seems satisfied to live in Boston. It's really not so bad.
(3)
Laura M.

My friend just moved to Coolidge Corner and it seems like he isn't going to bother exploring the neighborhood any further now that he's found Michael's. I hung out with him after work recently and he proclaimed the greatness of their Reuben, so I had to give it a try. Oh my, it was a tasty sandwich indeed, and the pickle that came with it was huge and delicious -- crunchy and not too salty or sour, it tasted like a real pickled cucumber and not some squishy perversion made of brine. Also offered is a Rachel, which is a Reuben made with cole slaw instead of sauerkraut, in case you're lame and can't handle the kraut. They also have a sandwich on the menu made with 1.5 POUNDS of meat... not for me, or for the faint of heart.
(4)
Neil K.

I'll admit it - I never had corned beef growing up with a vegetarian mother. I'm originally from the midwest, but now I live on the west coast. I had my first cornedbeef out in San Francisco and it was nothing to write home about (not that my mom would want to read about corned beef anyways, but I digress). On a recent visit to Boston, I was taken to Michael's Deli by my host. The reuben here was excellent - I finally understand what my east coast buddies have been raving about all these years.
(4)
zachary a.

simply the best cornbeaf in boston -- a small, simple deli, they follow the matra that makes great sandwiches: tender, tasty meat and lots of it (sandwiches typically have 1-1.5 inches of meat). plus tasty pickels.
(4)
Derek S.

There's just no way arond it. Michael's Deli is the best of food and service. A great place with a loyal reptaion and cstomers. The people there are the most friendly and will certainly brighten your day. The quantity and quality of the food, sandwiches and especially Rubins is above all the rest. And the corned beef is pretty good too. Everyone must eat here and experience it first hand.
(5)
Alex M.

The food is good, but the service is terrible. The last time I went in, I was yelled at by the cashier for paying with a debit card. He gave me a speech on how debit cards are ruining the planet with all of the paper they cause to be wasted.
(1)
Bob W.

The Reuben is amazing. Bagels with lox are good too.
(5)
Laurie C.

There is no question that Michael's Deli has the best corned beef and pastrami sandwiches in town. The experience is hole-in-the-wall, and, as other reviewers have pointed out, a little quirky. They don't want you to read at the tables. They reluctantly accept credit cards. And, the owner is really, really moody. Some days he is in a good spirits. Some days bad. Other days he is borderline Dexter. The best way to experience this place is to go in, order your food, pay cash and enjoy your excellent sandwich. Just don't read at your table.
(4)
Mike R.

As close to New York deli as you're going to find in the Boston area. They have the basics covered - excellent knishes and deli sandwiches. I consider a pastrami on rye with mustard to be the standard at any Jewish deli, and Michael's certainly does a very respectable job. Any of the other deli sandwiches I've had there are also good. They also have good bagels and lox and whitefish salad as well. Their menu is reasonably priced and while the service is not extremely friendly - bordering on mildly brusque, in fact - they're certainly quick and efficient. Forget the lines at Zaftig's - I have been there once and while it was okay, I'll never understand why there's constantly a line on the weekends at that place.
(4)
Andrea K.

best corned beef in the boston area, hands down. don't bother eating it there, it's kind of small and cramped and blah, but either take it home or go eat it on a nice sunny park bench in brookline somewhere. i'm so glad they have corned beef rachels, because sometimes rachels have turkey instead, but corned beef and cole slaw is like the greatest combination in the whole world. also, i'm a jewish girl from long island, so i'm pretty picky about my corned beef and even for New York standards, the meat they have here is very good.
(5)
Ashley S.

The sandwiches are really good, and really big. I love the chicken club sandwich and I hear the corned beef is wonderful. The owner seems a little quirky, and said a comment to me that seemed a little rude, but I think it was just a strange attempt at a joke. The food makes it worth it.
(4)
Joe S.

Food is amazing. Fills you up fast. Only has a few tables, so definitely better for take out. Very friendly services as well.
(4)
Kyleen K.

So delicious and fresh, but also a great variety of options far above and beyond your typical sub shop. I would give 5 stars but I sometimes have to remind them to put things on my sandwich, but take that with a grain of salt since I order like 3 meats, cheese, and 2 sauces on a typical visit. But they've always been absolutely delicious!
(4)
Guillermo M.

The corned beef Reuben is always amazing. For the first time we tried the knish and it was delicious. We had the spinach one. The basic potato salad I thought was not great. The cream soda and root beer were very very good.
(4)
Janet K.

Great sandwiches! The Reuben was delicious and my turkey sandwich was 80% turkey. Prices are a little high but definitely one of the best delis around!
(4)
Nam L.

Delicious. I love their corned beef, beef tongue, and chopped liver. And I love the Corned Beef Rachel with coleslaw in it. Really, all their combos are tasty sounding. My deli of choice!
(5)
Ann J.

Walking around Coolidge Corner, Michaels Deli would be easy to miss. That being said, this is by far one of the BEST sandwich shops I've been to in boston! I'll admit the main reason I walked in was due to the amount of stickers (food network appearances and yelp awards) on the door, but after biting in to the most delicious italian sub I am so happy that I did! Micheal's is what I picture when i think of a typical italian deli; small but with a big menu and bold flavors. I went with The "Slovenly" Italian which was listed under Dirty Sandwiches. Not only was it huge, the salt and vinegar chips were actually inside the sandwich! I was a little worried at first but it was amazing. The bread was fresh, the meat was stacked high and the chips added a crunch I never knew was missing. The sandwich itself was also huge so I was able to eat the other half the next day. One side note - There is very limited seating, as in 3 tables, and the place itself is very small. I would recommend getting your food to go and sitting outside if its nice out. If you're ever in Coolidge Corner looking for a lunch place that is quick, cheap, delicious, and guarantees amazing food Michaels deli is the place to go!
(5)
Quynh Nhu D.

After waiting in the line forever and ever, finally order, and then more waiting and finally got my Reuben and chopped liver. Reuben is my second obsession, after the lobster roll, but that's irrelevant. What you need to know is this place make an amazing reuben. It is so worth the wait. And chopped liver. I mean, is it pate? I'm not suave enough to know the different. But I love it nonetheless. To those liver hater, thank you please leave more for me. Only been here once and would love to go again and hopefully bump the rating to a 5* next time.
(4)
David C.

If you're in Coolidge Corner and looking for a good Jewish deli, skip the ridiculous line at Zaftigs and head for Michael's. They're best known (and deservedly so) for their incredible corned beef sandwiches, but the best thing I've ever had there (ADD aside, I just used all three forms of "there" in one sentence) is actually the smoked salmon breakfast sandwich. Simple, but oh so delicious, and overflowing with Omega 3s. To top it all off, the lady at the counter (I refer to her as the lady at the counter because I have never seen anyone else there) is the nicest person ever. I think the phrase "service with a smile" was actually invented for her. *Tip! Checking in on the Yelp app will get you a free side of potato salad or coleslaw. Yes, please!
(5)
Debbi S.

Stopped in there during a drive through town. Small but friendly place. Ordered the pastrami on rye as a half sandwich and ended up wishing i had ordered a full, it was that good. Worth visiting and i would stop in there again on my next trip through
(5)
Jimmy D.

First food stop in Boston, Hello Michael's Deli. The people here are amazing. The first time we went in the lady up front was so kind. She figured we would yelp in and she gave everyone free potato salad to go with the sandwiches. What was even better was since I went last, she gave me chips to make my sandwich messy (its a style of sandwich where they take half a bag of chips and crush it into the the sandwich) so since she understood I'm not a big fan on condiments she gave me the chips for free instead of the potato salad. But it didn't stop there, she also gave us two free bottles of water. I got the Michael's choice the first time I came in ... it was so huge and so delicious. The brisket was hot and fat and I just had to take my time to enjoy and savior every bite I could. The second time, the dude with the sweet locks totally remember us 4 days later, from Texas and all, Not only that the first time we went, he recommended a delicious pizza joint. I should have went with the Michael's Choice again because the corned beef wasn't as worthwhile as that delicious two meat sandwich. I also got the froot loop kanish which was a froot loop mixed into the breading over a fried chicken breast. It wasn't worth it. I wasn't sure about something about my sandwich though. I asked for a half but I'm not sure if I got a full, can someone look at my photo and tell me If they gave me another upgrade on the house :]
(4)
Gilbert L.

Although a bit pricey for sandwiches, the sandwiches are well served.
(4)
Timothy L.

A freaking delicious steaming hot corned beef on pumpernickel accompanied by an awesome pickle on the side. Cash only - I get it, but didn't know until I got there. That could have been a disaster if I was cash-free at the time of lunch! I will return....many times.
(4)
Hannah P.

My husband and I love this place. Coming from a family that has NY deli's--it's hard to find a place that can compete in Boston. Their pastrami sandwiches on pumpernickel or rye are exceptional and the "make your own" sandwich feature on the menu is great for all diners as you can customize ingredients to your liking. The staff are friendly and the sandwiches are ready in no-time. It's a very low-key place to grab a delectable flavorful bite!
(4)
Diana L.

I really love this spot. It's very low key. My boyfriend and I were starving and we each ordered corned beef reubens with sauerkraut, thousand island dressing...they were really delicious and we were very satisfied, I think they cost around 10$ a pop. We also had the knishes, the pastrami and the "krazy knish" (the name really drew us in) of moxie chicken. They were both tasty, although the pastrami one was a bit greasy. Overall, tasty food, really friendly service in a calm, low-key atmosphere. It was definitely worth a stop and I would totally come back. Nice half-sour pickles too!
(4)
Matt F.

Stopped in for a great lunch today. Got the Thorty Black and Gold. Excellent sandwich, generous portion of meat and nice balance with hot peppers. Free side of potato salad with checkin via app. All washed down with a cold Dr. Browns cream soda.
(5)
Lauren N.

Best Reuben sandwich I've ever had! Can't beat hot corned beef, melted swiss and fresh sauerkraut. Steven, the owner, is so welcoming. He's often at the register when we're there - nice to see the owner working the front and chatting with customers.
(5)
Erin B.

Come with an appetite. Their signature sandwiches are amazing. They are a little pricey but the sandwiches will keep you full all day. Highly recommended. Cash only.
(5)
Lannie L.

I'm not much of a sandwich aficionado but it's local and I know Michael's is a pretty popular deli place in Boston. Went to grab some lunch to go during a weekday and it wasn't crowded at all. The cashier woman was also very friendly despite some feedback below about bad customer service. I went with "Michael's Choice" (roast beef and beef brisket with horseradish sauce) and got the potato salad as a free side for checking in (there are 3 variations to choose from). They are definitely very generous with the amount of meat packed in the sandwiches. I could have very well saved the other half but trucked through my meal. It also comes with a half-sour pickle. Though it seems a little crazy to pay $11 for a sandwich, I suppose with all the meat and the free potato salad, it evened itself out. Will be returning to try the others!
(4)
Felipe R.

Their sandwiches are to die for. And the people working are very friendly we will be back again.
(5)
Stephanie C.

Yum! I visited Boston from NYC- the land of delis and this one definitely makes a mark. I came out to the Coolidge Corner area (very cool indeed) for a late lunch. Staff is super friendly and helpful in choosing a sandwich; I went with signature option two which was the black and gold hand cut pastrami. Truth be told, I've only had it once at Katz Deli in NY and this was a close second. The meat was really flavorful and surprisingly lean. I asked for the spicy mustard on the side which was also good in flavor and you're taking to someone that doesn't eat mustard much! The sandwich also had a great spice; it was peppers with jalapeÃ±os and cheddar. Accompanying pickle was standard, crisp, and yummy. Only meh side was that it came on some meh kaiser roll - wish they went with the rye.
(4)
Elica Y.

Love their sandwiches here. Small little joint with amazing bread, delis, cole slaw, and potato salads. I loved their Michael's Choice, which is a roast beef and brisket sandwich served with horseradish sauce. I got my sandwich on a light rye bread, which Michael's Deli suggested and I am so glad I followed their suggestion. The sandwich is $10.99, which is a little pricey but the quality of the meat is great. The bread was amazing. Nice, crunchy, warm, and was sturdy enough to hold the abundance of deli meat they offer you. You have to smother your sandwich with heir homemade mustard. PHENOMENAL!
(5)
Anthony A.

Cash only, FYI, but so good. I'd recommend getting the Rebecca special.
(4)
Colin C.

The food is great. Really Great. Super Great. You can't beat the food. The place however is disgusting. Sticky Floors dirty tables. The staff is rude sweaty, disgusting attitudes ruined the Really Great Super Great Food. If you want to make a place to eat...food is key, that's like half though you need a clean place to eat it and staff that isn't sweaty rude and disgusting. Go there get the food and then leave as quickly as possible, while being a abrupt with the staff about it.
(2)
LM O.

Fantastic~Fresh~Fast! These are the BEST sandwiches around. The staff is friendly, menu varied and the food is very fresh. The bread was notably soft and delicious. In fact, I asked about it and the owner(who is notably present) pleasantly explained the type of rye with which my sandwich was made and why he selected it. It is made every day from same baker. This is an owner operated place and it shows. We will be back, again and again! Remember cash only!
(5)
Adam B.

Outstanding sandwiches. The dirty sandwiches were delicious. Very friendly waitstaff as well.
(5)
Barbara D.

After hearing rave reviews from co workers I got lunch from here today and was highly disappointed. I got the tuna melt on pumpernickel. There was no cheese on it, and the bread was so soggy that my fingers went right through it. I paid $10 for a sandwich I could get for $3 in any other restaurant. Not worth the money.
(2)
Victor O.

Just what IS the problem with Boston and decent Jewish deli? Last year, we ate at Zaftig's-depressing beyond belief, a real shanda. And yesterday, wanting a good corned beef sandwich for the ride back to NJ, For 11 or 12 bucks, what I got was a few thin slices(who slices corned beef tin-this isn't goyishe ham!) on pasty pumpernickel, whwn I asked for a good rye bread, and, to top it off I asked for a full sour pickle, which they had the nerve to charge extra for, that tasted so vile and vinegary, it could have been a reject from Vlassic!~who ruins a sour pickle? No offense, but my Yiddishe brothers of Boston-don't you know any better?I guess New England and Jewish delicatessen are simply...incompatible!
(1)
Marit D.

Nice to get out after #blizzardof2015 and Michael's Deli was a great place to start. The chicken noodle soup hit the spot! As touted, the pastrami is excellent and made a very delish sandwich. Interesting pickles too.
(5)
Raj A.

Easily the best bacon bagel sandwich in Brookline. Amazing meat, eggs are fluffy and bagels are tasty. Will definitely come again. Very friendly staff
(5)
Yusra M.

AMAZING! Out of nowhere my inner carnivore demanded a massive quantity of corned beef and I turned to my trusty Yelp to find some...and I was not disappointed. Not only was the food at Michael's Deli delicious but the atmosphere was so inviting and a delight to anyone who lives in the middle of Boston where everyone is constantly carrying a scowl on their faces! I was extremely impressed by the friendliness and family-style of business. Definitely will be coming again and telling all my friends about this little gem.
(5)
Scott M.

Whenever I'm craving an Italian sub, it has to be from Michael's. The bread is soft and they give a great portion of meats. It's sad to sad that all the times I've been to Michael's, I haven't tried anything else because it so good.... Anyone have a good review of something else to try???
(4)
Jared B.

Only reason Michael's doesn't get 5 stars is that they don't accept credit cards. It is 2014 guys. Time to get with the program even if that means raising prices by a quarter. You won't be breaking the bank of anyone who can afford a 10 dollar sandwich. Other than the credit card issue the food is stellar. I had the Thorty Black and Gold. The pastrami was amazing and the combo of cheese and hots really makes the sandwich. Everyone else loved their sandwiches as well. Will be back, hopefully visa in hand.
(4)
Tara B.

Plenty of seating, an abundance of friendliness and AMAZING FOOD. Get the Reuben, obviously. The corned beef here is fresh and juicy and I've had my fair share, you know? The staff here is always super nice and the sandwich never disappoints. I've had soup, potato salad and a little of this and that here and it's just all wonderful.
(5)
Samantha B.

Jewish-style deli with an abundance of lunch and breakfast options. Meat portions are generous albeit some sandwiches can get a little greasy when warmed (corned beef and pastrami). Corned beef is very tender and lean and pastrami is a tad salty and thin compared to "New York" style. Brisket is similar to the corned beef and goes well with the horseradish sauce. Excellent Reubens and Rachels. Multiple types of potato salads, great for a side. Knishes are traditional in a variety of styles. The chicken, tuna, and egg salads are also a less-heavy option and flavorful, good for take-out. The bagel lox sandwich is reasonably priced for breakfast. Cash only.
(3)
Sandy K.

I love this place. It is the perfect mix of easy going, no fuss service and delectable food. Order the corned beef, it's the best around. The Ruben / Rachel is also deliciously messy. Ladies, put your hair up and grab some napkins if you go for one of the messier ones; prepare to enjoy. I don't live anywhere near this place, but I make a point to go when I'm in the Coolidge Corner area.
(5)
Kelly F.

I love this place. I always sort of forget about it, but then I see the line wrapped around Zaftigs and I remember how equally fantastic Michael's is! It is mildly irritating that they don't take cash, but it's not super expensive so it hasn't been a big issue. The staff is always really nice and friendly, which I appreciate. I highly recommend the roast beef and Hallah!
(5)
Alexander S.

This review is dedicated to the glory of the old school deli, a true rarity in Boston. I've probably been here 100 times, so I'm not messing around when I say this is the best corn beef and the best turkey I've ever tasted. Out of this world!! I usually go for a traditional Rubin or a turkey off the frame with cheddar, Russian, lettuce, and tomato. You can't go wrong with the classics They also make delicious knish's with pastrami in them. And they have Dr. Browns soda, the best soda of all time!
(5)
Keith G.

Ordered a brisket sandwich. It was terrible. Simply pure fat. Could;t eat. Didn't return to the counter as too busy to make a fuss. Ate the tasteless chicken soup. So close to NYC yet so far from even prison food. To call themselves a deli is a sham and no second chances here!
(1)
Albion A.

Solid Food, great employees and an awesome old school Deli Feel! I would recommend the Roast Beef and the Corned beef sandwiches! If you can make them dirty by adding the chips then do it!
(4)
Xiao Z.

I've driven by this place countless times, each pass left me salivating with the prospects of delicious mouthful of pastrami and beef. Even if you completely ignore all of the signs and advertisements on the store ceiling, one step into the establishment and you'll know why this place is so well acclaimed. I came here after a wonderful summer jog, and I gotta say, pastrami and fig sandwiched served in a bulky roll was both wonderful and stomach churning after a good workout. My weak stomach aside, the pastrami was delicate, full of flavor and just had a hint of the fig+balsamic dressing. I would definitely come back again and sample the rest of the sandwiches! Food: 5 stars Price: 4 stars Service: 5 stars (the patron was very friendly and made me feel right at home) Decor: 3 stars (would be 5 if there were outdoor seating)
(5)
Anna T.

I consider myself something of a deli-style food connoisseur, so trust me when I say Michael's is ON POINT with their offerings. I've had everything from a bagel with cream cheese and whitefish to a corned beef sandwich and side of coleslaw and I have yet to be disappointed by this gem of a deli. Their potions are monstrous, their food is fresh, and their service is fast and friendly. This is NOT a Jewish deli, but a Jewish-style deli with offerings like kosher hot dogs in their freezer and Knishes in their display cabinet. They offer sliced meats and deli sides to go or they have a sit down and eat menu. They also cater if you're looking for that. The place is cash-only so be forewarned but fear not, there is a Bank of America across the street if you miss the 15 signs that say "CASH ONLY!". They have some awesome surprises too like Halva candy and Dr. Browns soda cans, way to represent Michael's! If you're looking for some quick, tasty deli eats in the Brookline area, I highly suggest stopping in to Michael's Deli!
(5)
Kelsey W.

Cash only, which is a little annoying, but this place is totally worth it! I went in for the first time on a whim with my parents and we all enjoyed our sandwiches. Big, lots of meat, and great flavor. Plus their customer service was awesome. What more could you want from a deli?
(5)
AJ K.

This place is as good as it gets. I recently relocated back to Boston after living in New York for the past 10 years. Coming from New York, I think I am an expert on Delis. This place is on par with some of the best. Unlike a true Jewish Deli (and something I LOVE about Michaels) is that you can get cheese on your sandwich, SCORE! I'm a creature of habit, I always get what would be considered a "New Yorker". Hot Pastrami and Corned Beef with Swiss and Russian Dressing on a Bulky Roll (You can get any roll or bread you want, this is what I choose). The meet is warm, tender, flavorful...divine. The melted cheese blends into it perfectly. The russian dressing ties it all together and the bulky roll prevents it from getting soggy. This is my favorite Sandwich pretty much ever (with the exception of the Crispy Chicken Sandwich at Van Horn Sandwich Shop in Brooklyn). It is going to run you around $10 and it is CASH only (something thats always annoying for people who pay for everything with Debit like me). Go Check it out and see why its been voted best of Boston 1000x
(5)
Ted M.

You know you've found a truly spectacular spot when they have survived for a significant amount of time accepting only cash in a food-loving area like Coolidge Corner. I don't care what the cost or what form of payment is required, a Michael's sandwich is worth it. Scratch that - not just "worth it," but life-changing. I would highly recommend the Sandy, Todd Feinberg, or chicken salad club. If you're not a spiritual person before taking your first bite, you will be soon after!!!
(5)
Alex S.

Michael's Deli is one of my new favorite places to eat in Brookline. The owner is super nice and even gives you free potato salad for checking-in via Yelp! They have a variety of options from turkey and corned beef to tongue and liver. I ended up getting the Maple Mustard Corned Beef sandwich on light rye with a side of hot garlic pickles. Oh the pickles. I love them so. Generous servings and very reasonable prices. Check out my blog (complete with pictures and childish humor) for the full review! thesuchef.org/2013/09/30â€¦
(5)
Harri S.

Get the Rachel (no, not the popular late 90s haircut), eat the Rueben. Both are MINDBLOWINGLY good. Skip the knishes, they need seasoning and they're not especially fresh Try some weird soda. Not the celery one though.
(5)
R P.

The pastrami & corned beef sandwiches were AMAZING!
(5)
Gary M.

Fantastic! The sandwiches are large and tasty. Many times I have had to split the eating into two rounds waiting between. My favorites are the Rueben and Thanksgiving. So good!
(5)
John M.

Tried the beef tongue last time, very juicy. Had the middle of the tongue (because they actually give you a choice, and the middle is the flavorful part, great attention to detail). However, I was very disappointed in the house made potato salad. It was very bland and was so cold I could only recognize the potato because of the usual mealyness. Potato salad should be room temperature in the coldness so the whole thing doesn't taste like the fridge.
(3)
Olivia L.

I recently moved to Brookline and had been eager to try Michael's Deli, based on the good reviews it has received. I was not disappointed when I had the opportunity to try it! The ample proportions of my "half" sandwich were astounding and the accompanying sides were delightful, also! So glad that Michael's offers good quality chips and upscale soft drinks. The customer service is excellent here, too! The counter man was friendly and didn't get impatient with me when I had a little trouble deciding what to order. He told me to take my time and then made my sandwich quickly when I was ready. I will be a repeat customer at this friendly little hole in the wall! Great value and quality.
(5)
Ambrose C.

Do you sometimes wonder what a "knish" is? Are you also looking for a good pastrami and corn beef sandwich? Well if you are looking for both, this place has your answer. A knish (KE-NI-SH) is supposedly a small baked or fried pastry with some sort of filling inside that's popular in Jewish cuisine, and it's one of the most quintessential dishes.I got a pastrami knish and a potato knish. The potato knish was really good, it was nice and warm, and I really liked the chewiness. The pastrami knish was also nice and warm, with good flavor from the meat. Adding a little mustard to the pastrami knish made it even tastier. Two units of pastrami knish should be enough for a light lunch or a hearty snack. A potato knish is a great side dish if you are eating something like a small sandwich or even a 8 ounce (227g) steak. The sandwiches are impressive as well. I had a Corned Beef Reuben, supposedly one of the most popular sandwiches in Jewish cuisine. This sandwich has pumpernickel bread, Russian dressing, and Sauerkraut. The bread was decently toasted, with a little crispiness. The meat was nicely hot enough and they provided a generous helping. I really liked the warm, tender and meaty taste of the corn beef with the slightly crispy bread. The Russian Dressing and the sourness of the Sauerkraut just made the meat and the entire sandwich tastier. The place only accepts cash as payment, which is not a serious problem. However, one major improvement is that I think the guy who works at the cash register and takes the orders just needs to be a little kinder, sincerer and a little more genuine. If that happens, this deli could become one of the best delis in the nice and quiet community of Brookline. The really cool thing though is that he has met some fairly famous people like Anthony Bourdain. Overall, this is a good choice to get a knish and a corn beef sandwich for a hearty lunch. If I was craving for a good knish, and a sandwich at the same time, I would probably come back here again.
(4)
N H.

Wow! Their corned beef sandwich is amazing... and the real thing. I've had plenty of corned beef and reuben sandwiches at delis around Boston but none come close to Michael's. I'm usually wary of corned beef since it's usually too salty or too meaty/chewy when I get it at the grocery store, Real Deal, or Boar's Head, but Michael's is the best, hands down! They're a cash only place, but the people who work there are super friendly and work hard to make sure they get your order right. Even though they may be a bit more pricey than Bruegger's or Panera Bread, I'm coming here more often to get my lunch!
(5)
Joanna H.

Meat portions here are definitely generous. I ordered a Michael's Choice: Roast beef and brisket with Light Rye Bread. I could barely take a bite of it because of the overflowing meat. The brisket I enjoyed, but the roast beef was a bit too dry, maybe because it was more cooked than the deli roast beef I'm used to and love. Given that the sandwich didn't have much sauce, I definitely enjoyed the light rye bed and with the plain brisket. Pickles weren't pickled enough for me. The people here are nice and have a sense of humor, and your stomach will be filled to the brim here. But eh, I wasn't totally impressed. My friend really enjoyed The Rachel. If I come back, I'll give it another shot.
(3)
Brett A.

Busy Saturday but been here before and loved it what happened? Here's what I got all of which I had before but won't again. Chopped liver no flavor , pot salad dry and generic, is the 12$ corn beef sand microwaved if you ask for it hot ? brought sand which back to eat was like a sponge? Pickles and tomatoes not in juice on the case doesn't taste good. Smoked salmon a pale color was ok but not the nice nova I had had in the past. Disappointed spending that kind of money for a small quantity of deli is crazy, could have gone to a nice restaurant for a real dining experience or to the supermarket for this and gotten better and more for less. Place is not like a New York deli it's a weak attempt. no computerized receipts itemizing what you bought, lids don't fit on the little cups with side of mustard. End result = Annoyed
(1)
Christopher L.

Some co-workers and I were trying to decide where to go for lunch. I had mentioned that I read some yelp reviews about Michael's Deli and heard it was pretty good. We were not disappointed, we liked it so much we went back the next day. I had the reuben and the turkey club. Both were huge, forcing me into a post-parandial comas at my desk (they sandwiches were well worth it). A couple FYI's: Cash is king (Bank of America is across the street) Per recommendations, Tuna Melt over the Tuna Sandwich Not much seating and definitely not a dine-in big group place.
(5)
Matt R.

I've been back here several times since my first review and I have to say it just keeps getting better. Their service is just as good as their amazing corned beef. And the sandwiches are so big that you certainly will not leave hungry.
(5)
N W.

Oh my head....The Reuben was amazing! I seriously thought that I would be eating half of this colossal sandwich and then bringing the rest home for dinner. I actually had them give me a take home bag and everything. It was not needed. Amazing.
(5)
Kasey M.

A little on the pricey side, and CASH ONLY, but I loved the sandwich I got (Cancer Sucks Sandwich). The people working were also super nice. I will be back!
(4)
Karina L.

Fast and polite service. I got a bagel with lox. Mmmmmmmmmmm. Delicious lox cream cheese (beautiful, but not overpowering, salmon flavor. And the scallions in the lox was a nice touch.) As a New Yorker, this is the closest to a New York I've come across so far during my stint in Boston.
(5)
Sheleah T.

I love this place! I wasn't sure what I wanted when I got there but the staff there were patient and really helpful. I decided to get a warm pastrami sandwich. It was so good. The meat was sliced thin and it was seasoned perfectly. I moved to Chelsea but I will travel for that sandwich, for sure.
(5)
Ian G.

This is a great deli! I was visiting Boston Children's Hospital with my son and my doctor recommended it and I was not disappointed. I had a great hot lean pastrami sandwich! The owner Steve was there and actually made my sandwich for me. He was super nice guy and took a lot of pride making it for me.
(4)
Deb S.

Mike's Deli is the closest I've eaten to a NYC bagel, in the Boston area. I've tried Mike's twice so far - & will definitely be back. I've had a bagel with scallion cream cheese (good price too) and a bagel with lox, tomato, onions, & capers - mouthwatering & still fresh by 2pm.
(4)
P W.

My husband and I got a Reuben and beef knish. The Reuben was huge and pickles on the side was delicious!! Had to buy a pound... It's like a cucumber and pickle, not overly vinegary, and right amount of crunch! Great service! We'll be back again!!!
(4)
Simon L.

pastrami with mustard on rye. potato knish. rye bread was too thick. it was cold. pastrami was fair. thin sliced, piled lightly and very standard, warmed in the microwave. the sliced rye was two times the size required for the hot meat. potatoe knish was also cold in the middle. delicious pastry puff crust. excellent formation, awful execution. pickles perfect, mustard spicy and grainy. overall, sandwich lacked requisit amount of meat since the rye could have contained twice what it did. the cold bread was a huge disappointment. the bloody roast beef in the cooler looked like what i should have ordered. good spot, mediocre execution.
(3)
John O.

We to Michael's after seeing it a while ago on No Reservations. Small place, so best for take out. The prices weren't bad, but I was expecting more than what I got. We had the fig/balsamic pastrami and the hot tongue sandwiches. The pastrami was good and the portion size was decent, but the tongue seemed small and not enough meat to bread. The flavor was good though, and the meat was tender and juicy. Ordered a pastrami kinish as well. Probably would have been great if served fresh, but if you ask for it heated up it looked microwaved. All in all, if I need a deli fix I would consider this place, but it doesn't hold a candle to NYC Delis.
(3)
Elizabeth P.

I wish I could give them five stars. The fact that they have no credit card machine has stopped me from going here time and time again. It's 2014...
(4)
Ryan M.

Up front, the only reason that this place isn't getting five stars is because I am addicted to using my credit card and rarely carry around cash. However, the day I decided to stop in at Michael's Deli I was luckily carrying some bills and exchanged a reasonable amount of them for a delicious sandwich. From the bread to every delicious layer of ham that was on my sandwich, this place is one of the best. Very friendly guys running the counter and a prime location make this a must-stop if you live in Brookline.
(4)
Ms. S.

This place has ruined other pastrami sandwiches for me. RUINED. Amazing place, amazing food, amazing owner.
(5)
Chirag P.

I always pass this place because it was Cash only. One day I dropped my laundry off in the area, and had some cash left and figured, why not. I am NEVER going to Stop & Shop again for deli meat. The pastrami sandwich I had was just pure awesome, the corned beef I sampled was also very good! I took some black forest ham to go for home, and that was good too. One thing to note, their specialty is deli meat. I would recommend just taking deli meat to go. Although my sandwich was great, making one at home will also work, and save you a bit of money.
(5)
Kelley C.

I LOVE this place and always stop here for a great breakfast sandwich or lunch. great food, there aren't many deli's around the Boston area and this one hits the spot. They also have huge iced coffees!!
(5)
Lisa L.

This place has the best corned beef sandwiches! The service has been nothing but exceptional every time I've come here. Highly recommend.
(5)
Matthew H.

Here's all you need to know about this place: 1) The food is all good and you get what you pay for with portion size. It's probably a little more expensive than it should be. 2) It's cash only and they really, REALLY don't want you to sit around in here. Yes, even if it's empty. Take it to go. 3) The owner isn't "kind of" a prick, he's a full on prick who really loves tearing into people who are trying to pay him for the products he offers. My solution to this is simple... I know what I want, and I order it. I pay in cash. I leave, and I go about my day. The food is good, and I wouldn't want to eat here anyway.
(4)
Susan L.

God I have such an inner fatty. I couldn't put the sandwich down until it was no longer in sight. SO GOOD. I want more of mike's melt-in-your-mouth pastrami. I ordered the balsamic and fig glazed pastrami on light rye with lettuce, tomato, onions, mayo, horseradish. Worth every penny!
(5)
Susan R.

This is for take - out. Very disappointed in the chopped liver (bland) - 'should have been made with browned bits of onion.......tongue: dry and not savory......bagels: very generic. They do not offer hand cut Nova.
(2)
Michael R.

Alas, Michael's was not the storied deli foretold by the Yelp scribes of ancient. Truthfully, I've had a drink or two or four or ten tonight, but my appetite's always sober. Despite the less-than-stellar showing put on by Coolidge Corner's own Michael's Deli, I had a solid experience. I ordered the Michael's Special (Anthony Bourdain told me to order the Roast Beef) and it was a good sandwich; A-OK by Yelp definition. Hot and tender. However, it wasn't spectacular. I've had Roast Beef like that before, and I probably will again down the road. But it was certainly good in it's own right. A couple disclaimers though: the owners have strict NO READING signs (prolly because there's only 4-5 tables in the joint - yikes!) and they're cash only. Also, skip the cole slaw - it's certainly enticing to pair with Pastrami on Rye or perhaps Roast Beef on Pumpernickel, but it's pretty mediocre slaw. But I'm kind of a slaw snob, so maybe you'll have to try it for yourself. As a matter of fact, try the whole place for yourself. If you're in the area, it's worth a visit.
(3)
Carolyn L.

Another Coolidge Corner hot spot so I had to come and check this place out since I never got around to it when I was in college. It's a good thing I went in starving because the sandwich was HUGE! I ordered the Sandy (Howie Carr show) which had turkey, herb cream cheese and apricot chutney. I put it on some toasted rye. My God it was fabulous. I ate half of it and saved the rest for what was sure to be a great late night drunken snack (had a wedding to attend that evening, after all). The sweet and salty flavors paired so well. It was definitely unusual but sometimes those make the best meals! What was also funny was that the owner/cashier person clearly didn't care if he offended anyone. A woman asked for a cup and ice for her not cold enough drink. He gave her a cup, no ice. And they clearly were not about to get along. But I suppose it's his place, he can run it as he sees fit. I'd love to go back and try more sandwiches. I'll just make sure not to order ice!
(4)
Rob O.

Great deli sandwiches . Had the rachel here and was not disappointed.
(4)
Kyle S.

Wow, the corned beef sandwich here is absolutely unreal. I had never tried one before going here, and I can't wait until the next time I can stop by for another.
(5)
Nathan P.

I'm a firm believer that good food doesn't make up for bad service and this place is a classic example. Basically in my experience the service is as bad as the food is good. If you're in the mood for a good Reuben and rude service then this is your place! And please, whatever you do, don't dare read or consider using a credit card at this place. Try it and you'll find out why!
(2)
D S.

Being able to go to Michael's Deli is one of the great privileges of living in Coolidge Corner, and the people who work there won't let you forget it. CASH ONLY DO NOT READ IN OUR DINING ROOM I love it! I feel like an elite part of Coolidge Corner society because I am no longer given a dirty look from behind the counter when I walk in. You have to earn respect at this deli, and it is well worth the wait. The food here tastes like what food at a real deli should taste like! The tuna is delicious, as it is the pastrami and corned beef... hands down, the best in the area. They also have great bagels and cream cheese, knish, potato salad and a freezer case that looks interesting, but I must say that I have yet to investigate. They are closed on Mondays, so don't even bother... and they close early in the day every day.... but elitism and odd hours aside, get yourself in here and enjoy an almost alarmingly large and delicious sandwich! (With a killer pickle on the side.) Ok, now I am salivating and it's 4pm... they are totally closed. I'm screwed.
(4)
David L.

Been there several times (Bummer that they close before I get home from work on weekdays though!) and the sandwiches were good...REALLY good! I had the corned beef on rye the first time there (their specialty) and I wolfed it down in a matter of minutes. I kind of wish I hadn't, but it was hard to stop! I've also had the smoked turkey and their breakfast bagel with lox, both were great as well but the corned beef is definitely the highlight! I might stop by sometime before work in the morning to pick up breakfast too, more worth it than buying at work or at a chain.
(4)
Bret C.

Visited and tried the corned beef sandwich. Decent and good- nothing to write home about. Bread was fantastic, and yes, there was a bit too much meat on the sandwich. I've heard a few other things are good too, I'll try again next time. Just kind of an "okay" rating from me.
(3)
Arian A.

When we think of the years we lived in Brookline this place always brings back good memories of GREAT sandwiches. Everytime we went in the owner Michael was manning the register and always had something "smart" to say .. we loved it! Best corned beef on light rye I have ever had. Yum Yum.
(4)
Sophia Y.

This place may be great but they do NOT deliver. I was trying to buy some food for friend whose husband just died and they wouldn't do it. I'm in SF, so obviously, I can't deliver. "too busy"
(3)
Stockton M.

We don't have much better in Brookline, surprisingly despite the local clientelle. The place is ok, but they claim that they have "authentic" NYC style everything. It is a giveaway that it's not all that good...just like when a place puts up a sign that says "Fine Dining." They have an insecurity problem here and that is reflected in their bad attitude to customers with arrogance and unwillingness to help. The corned beef is touted but turns out to be not very tasty and poorly trimmed of fat. The sandwiches are not as big or as tasty if only as expensive as would be found in NYC. They do have the classic Dr. Brown's sodas, but again they overprice them. You could try the Butcherie up Harvard Ave, which has more substance but less style (multiple types of corned beef and pastrami but nowhere to sit there). The Butcherie is also closed on Saturday.
(2)
Nadia K.

Got the Rachel's corned beef sandwich. It's damn good. Michael is a bit of a prick, but I'm also not looking for his opinion on my choices and know better than to ask questions to someone like him. Just come in and order and have your cash ready because it is cash only and he doesn't have an ATM inside the store. The corned beef was fantastic, a little more fat that I generally like to have, but I have to remember I'm not at Katz's deli in NYC and therefore you're just not going to find perfection. It was pretty close though.
(4)
Kim Z.

I have been searching for the best ever lox cream cheese for 32+ years. I have found it. HUGE piece of lox in every other bite and only $6.99/lb. The breakfast sandwiches are not only reasonably priced, but so much more delicious than Bruegger's across the street. They come on an english muffin, but you can get it on a plain, sesame or everything bagel (which I always do!). The eggs are fresh and fluffy and the bacon is crisp and flavorful. And they have Dr. Brown's soda! Oh how I love Dr. Brown's. I'm not a knish person, but if you are, I noticed they had pastrami knishes - an original Michael's creation and their best seller.
(5)
Hunnie j.

I was looking for a light, flavorful sandwich and walked out feeling like I had just eaten three borderline bland but overwhelmingly filling thanksgiving dinners. My beef sandwich was very heavy - bordering on greasy - and although the meat was tender, the flavor was lacking. It was a decent sandwich but nothing I would come back for.
(3)
Brian Aaron J.

One of the worst things about leaving the Boston area was not being able to come here *sigh* . Obviously a place the has a sign that says "Corned Beef King" or whatever better have a corned beef sandwich, and they actually do and its quite large and king-ish. And its very good, and very cheap and very very a lot of meat, ok I'll stop using very now. Also I would almost get on a plane to have the Lox n' bagel with capers, onions and tomatoes, wow so great. I love this place. Salmon is from Nova Scotia, which apparently has super salmon or something.
(5)
M L.

Why is it that I didn't know they sold half sandwiches until the week before I moved away from Coolidge Corner? Oh, the irony. In any case, great sandwiches but they're huge, so probably worth splitting or getting a half sandwich for lunch. The knishes are good too.
(5)
Ali A.

I went home for the holidays and was craving something old school, something piled high - Michael's delivered with the fist full of food that you remember the next day & the day after, because it was just that good. A local mom & pop shop - not some copy/paste chain. The deli is small, they spice and cure their own meats, they're not pretentious ... everything just works and for $7 who can complain? Oh man, I'm getting hungry... The Romanian Pastrami was kickin... lamb, not beef - cooked in a great brine - with waves of flavor and black peppered edges, shaved just right. Like all good delis they serve it steamin' ~ oh man I want one now! Snag a pickled green tomato if you've never had one, skip the potato salad.... and yes, the guy workin the register is named Mike. See ya next holiday my man. - Alz
(4)
Sally S.

Extremely great deli! My suggestion - get to know Michael. He's a super friendly guy and loves to learn about what you do and where you're from and can share some great local Boston stories! A+ Ruben Rachel!!
(5)
Rebecca H.

This is another one of those situations where I want to lie and say, "this place is rancid and HORRIBLE" just so it's already small space doesn't become even more flooded with salivating yelpers gunning for one of their exquisite sandwiches. Seriously, Boston, why even bother having au bon pains and Paneras when you can have sandwich shops like this. Without fail, I always get a good meal here. Usually I order a half turkey with mustard, lettuce, tomato, and onion on pumpernickel with the chicken soup. And man, it's perfect every single time. Being a girl has its advantages as they always hand me my sandwich and say, "Shh, don't tell, I made this bigger than we're supposed to." And you get winked at and complimented a lot. Which, if you're too uppity, can feel kinda leery, but honestly it's part of the charm of this place. It makes it homegrown instead of sterilized. You can buy their meats and cheeses by the pound, which I completely recommend. Bah! I love this place!
(5)
steve c.

After reading the wildly overrated reviews of Michael's deli I am more convinced then ever that Boston is in dire need of a real deli. This place is mediocre at best and wouldn't last for 2 minutes in any area in a 90 mile radius of NYC. Michael (assuming that is the name of the charmless owner) is an arrogant prick who purveys average corned beef and pastrami to folks obviously so starved for the real items that they are willing to put up with his third rate soup nazi act. If you are looking for a real deli, the closest in the area is Rubin's. They serve a full array of traditional deli fare (e.g. matzo ball soup), they are nice and their food is pretty good. None of these places is the Second Avenue Deli or Katz's, but that is not Boston's forte. At least Rubin's tries, dealing with Michael's is trying.
(1)
Marcia F.

If you like corned beef or pastrami, you'll love this little place. Their pickles are also great. They pile on so much meat that you can order a half sandwich if you aren't super hungry. Once you try Michael's, you won't go anywhere else for deli! Oh yeah, the prices are much more reasonable than any of the other nearby deli places.
(5)
Molly S.

I agree that the sandwiches are good. I just had one today but the person at the deli counter -- who I believe is the owner -- was so rude to me today that I will never go back! There is a sign that says no reading but I needed to study for a test. So I asked another guy behind the counter if it was ok. He specifically said that it would be fine and that that sign was there for customers who stay for hours when it's really busy. Well it wasn't really busy, and I wasn't planning to stay for more then 15 minutes or so after finishing my sandwich. So after I ate my sandwich, I took my book out and within 10 minutes the owner came by, asked if I was done to which I replied yes. And then he said, "Well, would please move because I have customers who need this table and the sign says NO READING!" I tried to explain that I had already asked a person behind the counter if it would be ok but he had none of it. He basically kicked me out for studying after maybe 10 minutes. I should add that there were two other tables available for this one customer! I left completely offended and decided never to go back. Keep in mind that if you decide to go for the sandwiches in all likelihood it will not be a pleasant experience.
(2)
Ben P.

(at least in Brookline) this is the greatest deli around. The yuppies of Brookline flock to Zaftig's....but anybody with a decent set of tastebuds knows that Michael's is where to go if you want a real deli sandwich. All Zaftig's has going for it is a nicer interior, more tables, and longer hours. Granted, all those things are great - but the food is what matters for me. When I need corned beef, pastrami, a reuben, chopped liver - whatever...it's Michael's for me. One fault - their hours suck. They close at 5pm.
(5)
Eric W.

I suppose if I really knew delis, I'd be with you. As it is, this is fine, but hardly worth traveling to. Maybe it's just that saying something is better because it comes from New York turns me off. I'm glad I tried it once, but I have no inclination to return. My sandwich was a little dry and too tall to bite; if you have to deconstruct a sandwich to eat it, it seems to me someone missed the point. The meat was excellent, though, and I might have loved it had it been presented in another form. My girlfriend's Reuben was better and more impressive. I almost moved to Brookline, but I'm glad I didn't, because no one there seems satisfied to live in Boston. It's really not so bad.
(3)
Laura M.

My friend just moved to Coolidge Corner and it seems like he isn't going to bother exploring the neighborhood any further now that he's found Michael's. I hung out with him after work recently and he proclaimed the greatness of their Reuben, so I had to give it a try. Oh my, it was a tasty sandwich indeed, and the pickle that came with it was huge and delicious -- crunchy and not too salty or sour, it tasted like a real pickled cucumber and not some squishy perversion made of brine. Also offered is a Rachel, which is a Reuben made with cole slaw instead of sauerkraut, in case you're lame and can't handle the kraut. They also have a sandwich on the menu made with 1.5 POUNDS of meat... not for me, or for the faint of heart.
(4)
Neil K.

I'll admit it - I never had corned beef growing up with a vegetarian mother. I'm originally from the midwest, but now I live on the west coast. I had my first cornedbeef out in San Francisco and it was nothing to write home about (not that my mom would want to read about corned beef anyways, but I digress). On a recent visit to Boston, I was taken to Michael's Deli by my host. The reuben here was excellent - I finally understand what my east coast buddies have been raving about all these years.
(4)
zachary a.

simply the best cornbeaf in boston -- a small, simple deli, they follow the matra that makes great sandwiches: tender, tasty meat and lots of it (sandwiches typically have 1-1.5 inches of meat). plus tasty pickels.
(4)
Derek S.

There's just no way arond it. Michael's Deli is the best of food and service. A great place with a loyal reptaion and cstomers. The people there are the most friendly and will certainly brighten your day. The quantity and quality of the food, sandwiches and especially Rubins is above all the rest. And the corned beef is pretty good too. Everyone must eat here and experience it first hand.
(5)
Alex M.

The food is good, but the service is terrible. The last time I went in, I was yelled at by the cashier for paying with a debit card. He gave me a speech on how debit cards are ruining the planet with all of the paper they cause to be wasted.
(1)
Bob W.

The Reuben is amazing. Bagels with lox are good too.
(5)
Laurie C.

There is no question that Michael's Deli has the best corned beef and pastrami sandwiches in town. The experience is hole-in-the-wall, and, as other reviewers have pointed out, a little quirky. They don't want you to read at the tables. They reluctantly accept credit cards. And, the owner is really, really moody. Some days he is in a good spirits. Some days bad. Other days he is borderline Dexter. The best way to experience this place is to go in, order your food, pay cash and enjoy your excellent sandwich. Just don't read at your table.
(4)
Charlie D.

This deli is an absolute gem in an area packed with great food. If you want the best deli sandwich around Michael's is the place to go if you're not ballin' on a budget. The sandwiches will run you upwards of $10-15 but for what you get it's well worth it. I've had several of the sandwiches on the menu and they are all 10/10s. There is a great selection of fresh bread and the meat is all fresh and delicious. Definitely try this place out and you won't be disappointed. This is also cash only so hit the ATM first!
(5)
Andrew O.

If you're looking for a not-so-hole-in-the-wall deli for lunch, look no further. Michael's has won awards and garnered praise for years, but their true calling card is found in their welcoming and friendly staff, headed by the Corned Beef King himself. From the moment you walk in, you'll feel more like you're visiting old friends than stopping at a deli. To put it simply, the corned beef is phenomenal. It melts in your mouth, overflowing from the edges of the bread because it's been piled on so high. Though the sandwiches generally leave me wishing for a better cheese to meat balance, the quality of the ingredients makes up for any disproportion. It simply does not get better than this outside of Manhattan. Additionally, they are still cash only, but there is a Capital One ATM on the corner that doesn't charge withdrawal fees. You'll need to shell out around $15 for a sandwich and drink (plus tip!), but for a once-in-a-while treat and top notch service, it's well worth the cost.
(4)
Pough K.

Omg....so effing good.
(5)
Meghan B.

Overrated. Overpriced. Tiny and crowded. Price for a Reuben, chips and water was over $15! The Reuben was just average, not a massive size like Sam LaGrassa. They make the sandwiches in front of you with store bought bread. I'm not asking a deli for a freshly slaughtered cow but come on, ingredients seemed cheap. Throughly unimpressed. Cash only businesses automatically get a -1 star from me as I don't endorse legal tax evasion and make it a hassle to use. I don't get the hype. It's only niche is delis are rare in the Boston area, however sandwich shops are by no means white rhinos. I will not be back. I can make my own Reuben over five times for $15. 7subs nearby is twice as good for half the price and isn't cash only.
(2)
M K.

Pretty tasty sandwich. Fairly pricey...15 for a sandwich. My only gripe is that the meat didn't looked like it was cured/smoked/cooked in house. In NYC for the same price you'd be eating at Katz Deli where everything is done in house.
(4)
Miranda D.

Amazing sandwiches!! Thick sandwiches, full of meat, delicious!! I came once and got a pastrami sandwich, and let me tell you, it was once if the best sandwiches I've ever had!! I swear, it was like 3 inches thick!!! Crazy loaded with pastrami!!! And it was perfectly cooked! I definitely recommend Michael's Deli if you're in the Brookline area craving a great sandwich!!!
(4)
Kyleen K.

So delicious and fresh, but also a great variety of options far above and beyond your typical sub shop. I would give 5 stars but I sometimes have to remind them to put things on my sandwich, but take that with a grain of salt since I order like 3 meats, cheese, and 2 sauces on a typical visit. But they've always been absolutely delicious!
(4)
Guillermo M.

The corned beef Reuben is always amazing. For the first time we tried the knish and it was delicious. We had the spinach one. The basic potato salad I thought was not great. The cream soda and root beer were very very good.
(4)
Janet K.

Great sandwiches! The Reuben was delicious and my turkey sandwich was 80% turkey. Prices are a little high but definitely one of the best delis around!
(4)
Nam L.

Delicious. I love their corned beef, beef tongue, and chopped liver. And I love the Corned Beef Rachel with coleslaw in it. Really, all their combos are tasty sounding. My deli of choice!
(5)
Lauren N.

Best Reuben sandwich I've ever had! Can't beat hot corned beef, melted swiss and fresh sauerkraut. Steven, the owner, is so welcoming. He's often at the register when we're there - nice to see the owner working the front and chatting with customers.
(5)
Erin B.

Come with an appetite. Their signature sandwiches are amazing. They are a little pricey but the sandwiches will keep you full all day. Highly recommended. Cash only.
(5)
Ann J.

Walking around Coolidge Corner, Michaels Deli would be easy to miss. That being said, this is by far one of the BEST sandwich shops I've been to in boston! I'll admit the main reason I walked in was due to the amount of stickers (food network appearances and yelp awards) on the door, but after biting in to the most delicious italian sub I am so happy that I did! Micheal's is what I picture when i think of a typical italian deli; small but with a big menu and bold flavors. I went with The "Slovenly" Italian which was listed under Dirty Sandwiches. Not only was it huge, the salt and vinegar chips were actually inside the sandwich! I was a little worried at first but it was amazing. The bread was fresh, the meat was stacked high and the chips added a crunch I never knew was missing. The sandwich itself was also huge so I was able to eat the other half the next day. One side note - There is very limited seating, as in 3 tables, and the place itself is very small. I would recommend getting your food to go and sitting outside if its nice out. If you're ever in Coolidge Corner looking for a lunch place that is quick, cheap, delicious, and guarantees amazing food Michaels deli is the place to go!
(5)
Quynh Nhu D.

After waiting in the line forever and ever, finally order, and then more waiting and finally got my Reuben and chopped liver. Reuben is my second obsession, after the lobster roll, but that's irrelevant. What you need to know is this place make an amazing reuben. It is so worth the wait. And chopped liver. I mean, is it pate? I'm not suave enough to know the different. But I love it nonetheless. To those liver hater, thank you please leave more for me. Only been here once and would love to go again and hopefully bump the rating to a 5* next time.
(4)
David C.

If you're in Coolidge Corner and looking for a good Jewish deli, skip the ridiculous line at Zaftigs and head for Michael's. They're best known (and deservedly so) for their incredible corned beef sandwiches, but the best thing I've ever had there (ADD aside, I just used all three forms of "there" in one sentence) is actually the smoked salmon breakfast sandwich. Simple, but oh so delicious, and overflowing with Omega 3s. To top it all off, the lady at the counter (I refer to her as the lady at the counter because I have never seen anyone else there) is the nicest person ever. I think the phrase "service with a smile" was actually invented for her. *Tip! Checking in on the Yelp app will get you a free side of potato salad or coleslaw. Yes, please!
(5)
Debbi S.

Stopped in there during a drive through town. Small but friendly place. Ordered the pastrami on rye as a half sandwich and ended up wishing i had ordered a full, it was that good. Worth visiting and i would stop in there again on my next trip through
(5)
Jimmy D.

First food stop in Boston, Hello Michael's Deli. The people here are amazing. The first time we went in the lady up front was so kind. She figured we would yelp in and she gave everyone free potato salad to go with the sandwiches. What was even better was since I went last, she gave me chips to make my sandwich messy (its a style of sandwich where they take half a bag of chips and crush it into the the sandwich) so since she understood I'm not a big fan on condiments she gave me the chips for free instead of the potato salad. But it didn't stop there, she also gave us two free bottles of water. I got the Michael's choice the first time I came in ... it was so huge and so delicious. The brisket was hot and fat and I just had to take my time to enjoy and savior every bite I could. The second time, the dude with the sweet locks totally remember us 4 days later, from Texas and all, Not only that the first time we went, he recommended a delicious pizza joint. I should have went with the Michael's Choice again because the corned beef wasn't as worthwhile as that delicious two meat sandwich. I also got the froot loop kanish which was a froot loop mixed into the breading over a fried chicken breast. It wasn't worth it. I wasn't sure about something about my sandwich though. I asked for a half but I'm not sure if I got a full, can someone look at my photo and tell me If they gave me another upgrade on the house :]
(4)
Gilbert L.

Although a bit pricey for sandwiches, the sandwiches are well served.
(4)
Timothy L.

A freaking delicious steaming hot corned beef on pumpernickel accompanied by an awesome pickle on the side. Cash only - I get it, but didn't know until I got there. That could have been a disaster if I was cash-free at the time of lunch! I will return....many times.
(4)
Hannah P.

My husband and I love this place. Coming from a family that has NY deli's--it's hard to find a place that can compete in Boston. Their pastrami sandwiches on pumpernickel or rye are exceptional and the "make your own" sandwich feature on the menu is great for all diners as you can customize ingredients to your liking. The staff are friendly and the sandwiches are ready in no-time. It's a very low-key place to grab a delectable flavorful bite!
(4)
Diana L.

I really love this spot. It's very low key. My boyfriend and I were starving and we each ordered corned beef reubens with sauerkraut, thousand island dressing...they were really delicious and we were very satisfied, I think they cost around 10$ a pop. We also had the knishes, the pastrami and the "krazy knish" (the name really drew us in) of moxie chicken. They were both tasty, although the pastrami one was a bit greasy. Overall, tasty food, really friendly service in a calm, low-key atmosphere. It was definitely worth a stop and I would totally come back. Nice half-sour pickles too!
(4)
Matt F.

Stopped in for a great lunch today. Got the Thorty Black and Gold. Excellent sandwich, generous portion of meat and nice balance with hot peppers. Free side of potato salad with checkin via app. All washed down with a cold Dr. Browns cream soda.
(5)
Lannie L.

I'm not much of a sandwich aficionado but it's local and I know Michael's is a pretty popular deli place in Boston. Went to grab some lunch to go during a weekday and it wasn't crowded at all. The cashier woman was also very friendly despite some feedback below about bad customer service. I went with "Michael's Choice" (roast beef and beef brisket with horseradish sauce) and got the potato salad as a free side for checking in (there are 3 variations to choose from). They are definitely very generous with the amount of meat packed in the sandwiches. I could have very well saved the other half but trucked through my meal. It also comes with a half-sour pickle. Though it seems a little crazy to pay $11 for a sandwich, I suppose with all the meat and the free potato salad, it evened itself out. Will be returning to try the others!
(4)
Felipe R.

Their sandwiches are to die for. And the people working are very friendly we will be back again.
(5)
Stephanie C.

Yum! I visited Boston from NYC- the land of delis and this one definitely makes a mark. I came out to the Coolidge Corner area (very cool indeed) for a late lunch. Staff is super friendly and helpful in choosing a sandwich; I went with signature option two which was the black and gold hand cut pastrami. Truth be told, I've only had it once at Katz Deli in NY and this was a close second. The meat was really flavorful and surprisingly lean. I asked for the spicy mustard on the side which was also good in flavor and you're taking to someone that doesn't eat mustard much! The sandwich also had a great spice; it was peppers with jalapeÃ±os and cheddar. Accompanying pickle was standard, crisp, and yummy. Only meh side was that it came on some meh kaiser roll - wish they went with the rye.
(4)
Elica Y.

Love their sandwiches here. Small little joint with amazing bread, delis, cole slaw, and potato salads. I loved their Michael's Choice, which is a roast beef and brisket sandwich served with horseradish sauce. I got my sandwich on a light rye bread, which Michael's Deli suggested and I am so glad I followed their suggestion. The sandwich is $10.99, which is a little pricey but the quality of the meat is great. The bread was amazing. Nice, crunchy, warm, and was sturdy enough to hold the abundance of deli meat they offer you. You have to smother your sandwich with heir homemade mustard. PHENOMENAL!
(5)
Anthony A.

Cash only, FYI, but so good. I'd recommend getting the Rebecca special.
(4)
Colin C.

The food is great. Really Great. Super Great. You can't beat the food. The place however is disgusting. Sticky Floors dirty tables. The staff is rude sweaty, disgusting attitudes ruined the Really Great Super Great Food. If you want to make a place to eat...food is key, that's like half though you need a clean place to eat it and staff that isn't sweaty rude and disgusting. Go there get the food and then leave as quickly as possible, while being a abrupt with the staff about it.
(2)
LM O.

Fantastic~Fresh~Fast! These are the BEST sandwiches around. The staff is friendly, menu varied and the food is very fresh. The bread was notably soft and delicious. In fact, I asked about it and the owner(who is notably present) pleasantly explained the type of rye with which my sandwich was made and why he selected it. It is made every day from same baker. This is an owner operated place and it shows. We will be back, again and again! Remember cash only!
(5)
Adam B.

Outstanding sandwiches. The dirty sandwiches were delicious. Very friendly waitstaff as well.
(5)
Barbara D.

After hearing rave reviews from co workers I got lunch from here today and was highly disappointed. I got the tuna melt on pumpernickel. There was no cheese on it, and the bread was so soggy that my fingers went right through it. I paid $10 for a sandwich I could get for $3 in any other restaurant. Not worth the money.
(2)
Victor O.

Just what IS the problem with Boston and decent Jewish deli? Last year, we ate at Zaftig's-depressing beyond belief, a real shanda. And yesterday, wanting a good corned beef sandwich for the ride back to NJ, For 11 or 12 bucks, what I got was a few thin slices(who slices corned beef tin-this isn't goyishe ham!) on pasty pumpernickel, whwn I asked for a good rye bread, and, to top it off I asked for a full sour pickle, which they had the nerve to charge extra for, that tasted so vile and vinegary, it could have been a reject from Vlassic!~who ruins a sour pickle? No offense, but my Yiddishe brothers of Boston-don't you know any better?I guess New England and Jewish delicatessen are simply...incompatible!
(1)
Marit D.

Nice to get out after #blizzardof2015 and Michael's Deli was a great place to start. The chicken noodle soup hit the spot! As touted, the pastrami is excellent and made a very delish sandwich. Interesting pickles too.
(5)
Raj A.

Easily the best bacon bagel sandwich in Brookline. Amazing meat, eggs are fluffy and bagels are tasty. Will definitely come again. Very friendly staff
(5)
Yusra M.

AMAZING! Out of nowhere my inner carnivore demanded a massive quantity of corned beef and I turned to my trusty Yelp to find some...and I was not disappointed. Not only was the food at Michael's Deli delicious but the atmosphere was so inviting and a delight to anyone who lives in the middle of Boston where everyone is constantly carrying a scowl on their faces! I was extremely impressed by the friendliness and family-style of business. Definitely will be coming again and telling all my friends about this little gem.
(5)
Scott M.

Whenever I'm craving an Italian sub, it has to be from Michael's. The bread is soft and they give a great portion of meats. It's sad to sad that all the times I've been to Michael's, I haven't tried anything else because it so good.... Anyone have a good review of something else to try???
(4)
Jared B.

Only reason Michael's doesn't get 5 stars is that they don't accept credit cards. It is 2014 guys. Time to get with the program even if that means raising prices by a quarter. You won't be breaking the bank of anyone who can afford a 10 dollar sandwich. Other than the credit card issue the food is stellar. I had the Thorty Black and Gold. The pastrami was amazing and the combo of cheese and hots really makes the sandwich. Everyone else loved their sandwiches as well. Will be back, hopefully visa in hand.
(4)
Tara B.

Plenty of seating, an abundance of friendliness and AMAZING FOOD. Get the Reuben, obviously. The corned beef here is fresh and juicy and I've had my fair share, you know? The staff here is always super nice and the sandwich never disappoints. I've had soup, potato salad and a little of this and that here and it's just all wonderful.
(5)
Samantha B.

Jewish-style deli with an abundance of lunch and breakfast options. Meat portions are generous albeit some sandwiches can get a little greasy when warmed (corned beef and pastrami). Corned beef is very tender and lean and pastrami is a tad salty and thin compared to "New York" style. Brisket is similar to the corned beef and goes well with the horseradish sauce. Excellent Reubens and Rachels. Multiple types of potato salads, great for a side. Knishes are traditional in a variety of styles. The chicken, tuna, and egg salads are also a less-heavy option and flavorful, good for take-out. The bagel lox sandwich is reasonably priced for breakfast. Cash only.
(3)
Sandy K.

I love this place. It is the perfect mix of easy going, no fuss service and delectable food. Order the corned beef, it's the best around. The Ruben / Rachel is also deliciously messy. Ladies, put your hair up and grab some napkins if you go for one of the messier ones; prepare to enjoy. I don't live anywhere near this place, but I make a point to go when I'm in the Coolidge Corner area.
(5)
Kelly F.

I love this place. I always sort of forget about it, but then I see the line wrapped around Zaftigs and I remember how equally fantastic Michael's is! It is mildly irritating that they don't take cash, but it's not super expensive so it hasn't been a big issue. The staff is always really nice and friendly, which I appreciate. I highly recommend the roast beef and Hallah!
(5)
Allie M.

The Rachel is awesome! Very nice staff. Tasty food. Kind of expensive for a sandwich, but they are superb.
(4)
Jenn F.

Walking in their door is always the highlight of my day. Their staff is amazing, they always greet me with a smile, they know my order and ask about work and my coworkers since they know I work across the street. And the FOOD!!!!! Oh wow, absolutely incredible! Delectable sandwiches, sumptuous sides and mouth watering deli choices. It's making my hungry just thinking about them. This will be your new favorite place for lunch!
(5)
L P.

Michael's Deli where have you been all my life? I don't know who Michael is but Steve introduced himself as the owner and he couldn't have been more personable. Their corned beef and the chopped chicken liver beats Zaftigs or Rubins by a mile. But what stole the show was believe it or not their tongue sandwich! I know, I know, sounds horrid right? I was squeamish when I heard my mom order it, but when I tried a little bit of hers OMG I had to get my own! It's sliced really thin, piled high, served warm, and tastes like the softest corned beef you've ever had. Don't even think about it, just try it and a whole new world will open up to you! They were out of rye and offered me the sandwich on challah which was a happy accident I think. That sandwich was even better on challah! I live an hour away but I can't wait to go back again. I wish they had more seating but who cares, just get a takeout and remember to bring cash.
(5)
Jeremy K.

Living in Boston for over four years now (jeeze, typing it made me realize it. I must let it sink, I'll brb in a few.............................................. ok I'm back!) I realized that I have never been able to find a good, decent, NY-style place that serves up good pastrami or corned beef. Sure there's Sam Lagrassa's but their hours don't make it the most convenient place out there; but finally my prayers have been answered over at Michael's Deli. When I heard of it for the first time and saw where it was located, I felt like an ass because I had driven by it at least a good hundred times and never even noticed it. I decided to go there on a snowy afternoon with the girlfriend. I was greeted a little aggressively by Michael himself who commented on my Yankees hat. I quickly responded by saying that "You're the one with the NY-style deli in Boston!" He smiled and we made truce. A few minutes later I had a heaping sandwich full of both pastrami and corned beef. Over 1.5 lbs of it and it was all delicious! The staff is great and they have root beer in a glass bottle! How cool is that huh? I might sound nostalgic but I've been raised with glass bottled root beer, not canned root beer and it made this place grow on me instantly. I've since then returned many times, driving all the way from Kendall square to go get my Micheal fix. Terrific meant sandwiches and they also have solid slaw along with the knishes. Snow or rain, shine or thunder, I shall become a loyal customer there in time. If only parking was a little easier, I'd go there every week. And just might! Highly recommended!
(4)
Chappy B.

Stopped in here just before the lunch rush. Generous helpings, reasonable prices. CASH ONLY. When I didn't have enough for a drink the cashier poured me a glass of cold water without even asking. Seems to be a regulars spot, everyone's name dropping. On the way home I laughed at everyone standing in line at Subway. Also, potato salad...
(5)
C C.

Stopped in for lunch today and I'm so happy i did. Not only did the place just smell great but my sub and bf's was sooo good.Extra points for carrying pickles tomatoes. I could not have asked for more in the quality or quantity of what i ordered. Customer service was nice, no complaints there. I over heard that the infamous Michael has retired. I'll be back !
(5)
Tom G.

Better meats than Zaftigs and less expensive. More of a legit deli than sit down place. Quite nice.
(4)
Paul N.

Real Corned Beef and Pastrami made on premises. Authentic deli. Small in size full in flavor. I've only been there once. If this is the best of Boston however, it may be time to take the Bolt Bus back to NYC. Go for a good sandwich made with fresh, authentic ingredients. Then move on.
(3)
Eric S.

After watching Bizzare Foods with Andrew Zimmern on the Travel Channel, and being introduced to the New York Deli, I began searching for a similar deli in the Boston area. Sure, there's Eagle Deli who seems to serve nothing but gut-busting burgers, and there's Jim's Deli which serves very good food, but neither are New York style delis. Then, I came across Michael's Deli. After reading the various reviews on Yelp, and seeing that they serve tongue sandwiches (which, by the way is one of the best cuts of meat according to Andrew Zimmern because it's marbled and tender), I just had to give this place a try. Armed with cash, (I read about his "credit card policy") I walked in and was greeted by Michael (who I had recognized from the photos on their site). I ordered a whole tongue sandwich on white bread with American cheese and honey mustard. I sat down and watched them make my sandwich. For some of the sandwiches, they had to microwave them to make them "hot" sandwiches, but my tongue sandwich was not microwaved (not while I was there at least). My sandwich came out nice and warm. It didn't quite look like the sandwiches in the photos on Yelp (it didn't have quite as much meat and the sandwich wasn't as large, maybe tongue costs more?), but it did have plenty of meat, and it was cooked to perfection. The beef tongue was tender yet flavorful, and had a slightly corned beef taste, but not to the extent where the flavor of the meat was masked by the seasonings. It was incredibly juicy and dripped all over the plate. It came with a whole pickle, sliced in half lengthwise, which was more salty than sour, and was more cucumber than pickle, but they appeared to be homemade so it could just be that style. (I am not a connoisseur of pickles by any means, but I do love pickles!) I finished the sandwich, thanked Michael, who replied "You're welcome, have a good one," then left. I don't know if Michael is really as rude as some of the reviews on here describe him to be, but I had a very pleasant experience here today. (Maybe I caught him on a good day?)
(4)
Linsey M.

Michael's Deli recently catered a conference I hosted in Boston for 55 people for both breakfast and lunch. Steven was EXCELLENT to work with. He was accommodating with our advanced planning, worked with us in advance to arrange a time we could come in for lunch to experience the food and be able to meet with him directly to discuss our needs and budget. His delivery was beyond timely even at the busiest breakfast and lunch times of the day. The food was efficiently packaged, hot was hot and cold was cold and most importantly we had just the right amount of food. Everyone was happy and really enjoyed the food which was delicious and we were able to cater to the needs of everyone from the strictest vegan to the biggest roast beef fan and everyone in between. They were fast, efficient, reliable and a pleasure to work with taking much of the stress off of this part of the conference planning process. It was a stellar experience, I would not hesitate to work with them again or recommend them to others. We are looking forward to having Michael's Deli cater our regular office lunches in the future.
(5)
Chris L.

I'm gonna make a controversial statement here and declare that I will probably never order the corned beef or the pastrami sandwich at Michael's Deli ever again. It's not that they aren't both delicious - they are. I just believe I've stumbled across something that blows both sandwiches out of the water: The Hot Tongue. Picture this: Corned beef that's twice as tender, more flavorful, and 100% lean. Super Corned Beef, if you will. Such is the hot tongue. It's kind of like the difference between maguro and otoro. Both are great, but one is naturally better simply because it has more intramuscular fat. This sandwich is so good that I'd propose changing the Michael's sobriquet from "The Corned Beef King" to "The Hot Tongue King," had that nickname not already been assigned to my friend Evan after his romantic escapades in the 6th grade. Combined with brown mustard, horseradish sauce, tomatoes, and lettuce, the hot tongue sandwich has become one of my favorite sandwiches of all time and is certainly tied with the Prosciutto Lover's sandwich at the Meat Spot in Watertown as my favorite sandwich in the Boston area. The guy that took our order was full of smiles and super kind, which made me wonder what the other reviewers were complaining about. Once my sandwich was done, he pointed to my girlfriend and I and said, "Half tongue and bagel with butter," as if he was really happy to have our business. He was also very helpful when I asked about the different sizes of nova cream cheese available for purchase and I ended up taking home a good sized tub of cream cheese, chock full of salmon, for just over three bucks. We experienced none of the surliness that I had read about in multiple reviews and I fell into an almost zen-like state as I ate my tongue on rye. Maybe the guys at Michael's have read the Yelp reviews complaining about the service and are making a conscious attempt to improve things, or perhaps, some Yelpers are too sensitive after being coddled their entire lives and are unable to understand that small, independently owned businesses cannot afford to have people sitting around for hours or dilly dallying with credit cards when ordering a $5 sandwich. Either way, I think Michael's is a fantastic neighborhood establishment and I hope that it will continue to "slip me the tongue" whenever I return to Boston in the future.
(5)
Kyrstyn B.

Yes Michael is a prick, but he is a prick by Boston standards. If you have ever been in a busy NY deli he is practically susie sunshine. Oh and if you dish it back he is not that bad. I can honestly say that this is the only place that I prefer the Rachel over the Ruben. Many places put too much sugar and dressing (or mayo) in their coleslaw and they do not as it has just the right amount of sweetness and "juice". The brisket is cooked perfectly and with their russian on rye it is an excellent sandwich. The bagels and cream cheese are the best! I would hope so as he gets at least the bagels from NY. There are only 6 tables and only one seats 4 the others seat 2. Eat and get out that is what he wants you to do. I have not been since the new ownership has taken over so I do not know if it has changed.
(4)
G K.

top quality sandwiches. This place is amazing. the sandwiches we had were : Mikes choice -- awesome roast beef and brisket Howie Carr -- great brisket and cornedbeef Rubin sandwich is great too prices seemed about $1.50 higher than they should be...but the quality is amazing so its fine.
(5)
Craig H.

Unbelievable pastrami and corned beef sandwiches. The meat is so tender and succulent, it literally melts in your mouth. I find myself back here frequently, and even more frequently when my New York hometown family comes up. Seriously, don't pass is place up. Bring cash though...no plastic accepted.
(5)
Alex L.

Old school, cash only, best place to get a sandwich in Coolidge Corner. Also, best Reuben in the city.
(5)
Diane Maggie M.

I'm an Irish Catholic Townie but my Dad wanted to try knish. So I looked it up here on Yelp. First, it's easy to get here. Green Line trolley to Coolidge Corner (C line) and walk about a block. It's a small place with limited seating, but I was just picking up. The guy at the counter was pleasant and welcoming. There were four varities and I got 2 of each, $2.99 each. I served half tonight when my brother came to visit. My Dad (and everyone else loved the pastami. The roast beef was good. I wasn't crazy about the spinach, but my sister-in-law liked it. I didn't like the potato myself, but my nephews snatched them up. But all were covered with flaky tender pastry. I'll be going back to try sandwiches. Also, thanks to other Yelp eviewers I knew "Cash only"!
(4)
Gina S.

Wow! Diapointed, my first time so I went with there strongest item. Half sandwich, hot corned beef with horseradish sauce. Both were totally flavorless. The meat was tender without any taste. I love horseradish but there sauce had absolutly no kick at all. I certainly won't rush back here or bring any friends.
(1)
Marissa P.

An update on Michael: I actually like the guy and don't see what's so bad and why people complain? He sold me some delicious freshly baked bagels today, called me "dear", and cracked a witty joke. I candidly asked him about his no reading policy and he told me people hang out like it's a coffee shop. I gotta say, the man has a point. And his corned beef is to die for as usual.
(5)
Sam S.

first there was the corn beef. then i graduated to pastrami. Now i have a doctorate in tongue.
(5)
D R.

Probably doesn't need another good review - but these sandwiches are awesome. I've been here 3 times and have only tried the Reuben and the Rachel...soon I will venture out and try something else! Oh, and I almost forgot to mention, the people who work there are also super nice and helpful!
(5)
Stephen R.

The Corned Beef reuben was unreal. The best I have ever had anywhere. The bread was simple. The corned beef wasn't salty, but full of flavor. The Swiss Cheese was yummy, melty. The dressing was warm and a perfect touch to draw every component together. To top it all off the pickles were nice and sweet, more of a pickled cucumber.
(5)
Ange B.

Great food, friendly people. New owner, Steve, is a great guy. People rave about the corned beef, but I'm happy eating their tuna on rye any day of the week.
(4)
Nicholas P.

It is hard to state in words how much of a jerk Michael of Michael's deli truly is. I don't know how he came to be, but I have never in all my life come across such an unpleasant man. He is rude, mean, cold, obnoxious and outright evil. My opinion of him is based on 10-12 visits to his deli in the past year, as well as multiple other encounters told to me by others. Rumor has it that he was kicked out of the Marlboro because of how much of a jerk he was. The following excerpt will truly describe who he is... He strategically hides his "cash only" sign in a corner that allows new customers to approach the cash register unaware (after 10 minutes in line), yet still allows him to point at it in utter disgust as he moves on to the next customer, without pause. I hate him. That being said his deli meats are delicious and I have never had a bad meal there. New york style sandwiches at a Boston price. I will continue to go and enjoy the food while my hatred for Michael will continue to grow.
(3)
SR F.

love the new michaels.. only one suggestion.. either they get a toaster over for the knish or sell only for takeout.. they ruin these in the wave!
(3)
Adam A.

Michael is rude if you read a book or write a novel at a table that is only supposed to be used by customers who are eating. There are signs posted everywhere that say this...so get over it. If you are not a stupid, ditzy customer, then you will find the service and friendliness of the staff to be top notch The food is awesome. Anything that you get will be great but definitely try the horseradish sauce (homemade).
(5)
Cwot W.

Imagine you put a cow through a wood chipper at 80 mph and caught it with wax paper. My roast beef was like that. Good sandwich but basically a yard sale on bread. Also, the guy that works the front, while being very nice, Appears to have no short term memory. It took far longer to take my order than to make it. And was in fact, not what I ordered at all.
(4)
Jim W.

Line out the door. Yum. Big sandwich's. 'Nuf said.
(5)
Doctor F.

BREAD TOO THICK?? I SAY "YES". I love this place, but I can't help but think that the bread is just a bit too thick for the sandwiches. Im just going to say it - this is the thickest bread I've ever had at a legit deli. In my opinion - it takes away from the sandwich. Food-wise, that is the only thing I would change at Michael's. Their pastrami and cornbeef are as-good-as it gets in my opinion. I lived in NYC for years and frequented many a Jewish deli there, and Michael's is right there. But again - the bread?? Its great bread but...sliced too thick I say. Something to consider! I just feel it hurts the sandwich, which is something no one wants to see. I know these are serious words as we are all dead-serious when it comes to sandwiches.
(4)
Takumi Y.

Very old fashioned deli. Got old drinks and sodas(moxie) and ate by wooden tables and chairs. Got the reuben and the rachel with a free side of cole-slaw(check in on yelp). Amazing. One of the best sandwiches i had in Boston. A must visit if youre around the area.
(4)
Jeff D.

Don;t understand the questions on poor service. My wife & I went here on a Saturday with our four month old and the people couldn't have been nicer. We got a pastrami on rye & reuben to eat-in and sesame bagel to go. Sandwiches were fantastic and great portions. Michael himself even came over and talked to our baby for a bit. Maybe that's the secret, come with a baby.
(4)
Jessica h.

Excellent helpful staff, heavenly sandwiches EVERY TIME. Dr. Browns soda, Kosher Dill Pickles and pre-made salads. Best Pastrami sandwiches and corn beef. Absolutely can't go wrong, bring cash.
(5)
Hayley M.

Very, very solid deli. I can't believe I've lived a matter of blocks from this hidden hole-in-the-wall and didn't notice it! I'm a regular at the Subway on the same block and wish I had known that a far better deli spot was only a few doors down. Apparently (can't find the hours on their website) they are only open for lunch, but well worth it. My turkey and cheddar on challah bread was a serious sandwich, overstuffed with fresh, flavorful turkey and made complete with a half sour pickle. I noticed they have knishes, and I suffer from a knish weakness, so I know I'll be back and picking some of them up to go. But I'll make sure to bring cash, 'cause they won't take cards.
(4)
P K.

We had an awesome Jewish deli family birthday gathering for my Dad's 80th!! Every type of knish, big plates of pickles and pickled tomatoes, perfect latkes with sour cream and apple sauce. Then bring on the sandwiches - really the best corned beef!! - Go for the Ruebens. Great pastrami, Brisket and also a superb whitefish salad. Great bulkie rolls, perfect bagels and lox. Everybody was happy and very full.. Special shout out to Michael's son for the idea of a birthday cake knish- so good and so perfect for the occasion. Much better food than the other deli's in the neighborhood and so much friendlier! Best Rueben evah!!
(5)
Marie c.

New ownership-improvement for personality for sure..but the food is suffering. Coleslaw has NO flavor; chicken salad is too chunky and falls out of the bread, the quality of the food has been affected to the negative, regretfully. Love the new owner Steve..but he is NOT maintaining the quality Michael built with great attention. I'm going way less than I used to as a result and am disappointed in seeing this. You will get new patrons..but you are also losing long time customers because of the changes. Oh and the sandwhiches are at least 1/3 smaller than before the management changeover. Go back to how Michael made his food, please..and I'll come back more often. You have lost a star from me.
(3)
Joe F.

Way better than Carnegie deli and best pastrami since eating at Katz years ago...
(4)
Phil C.

Michael's has well-above average corned beef and pastrami for the area. They're both pretty lean and flavorful. The sandwiches are well-portioned and the prices are better than other places like Rubin's or Zaftigs. I'm giving this place this high of a grade, assuming that I'll be just doing take-out from now on. Just don't eat-in and do take-out instead. You'll save yourself from the prospects of facing grumpy/watchful eyes and the grief of being rushed out...
(4)
Ken W.

This is one of my favorite places for a quick and delicious lunch -- corned beef Rachel, cream soda, yum. As others have commented, the old reviews about unfriendliness no longer apply at all. To the contrary, this is a tremendously friendly place. I come in for an early weekend lunch with my son (who's too young for corned beef but will be a regular someday), counter staff always have a smile for him, then I set him up in a high chair and feed him food from home while I have my sandwich and he grins at the other customers. Some places go out of their way to be unfriendly to babies (e.g., by making us leave stroller out in the rain when the place is empty), some are neutral, and some are a pleasure. This one's a pleasure. That made Michael's a natural choice for catering bagels/lox/whitefish for my son's first birthday party, and they did a great job. The owner was out of town when I called, but he followed up by email and phone in minutes, set up the order on short notice, and was slicing the last bagel as I walked in to pick up a gorgeous and delicious platter. It cost more than it would have to buy a few dozen bagels and a pack of lox from Bruegger's, but deservedly so; this was high quality stuff and really helped make the party festive. Will be back for both lunch and catering. Great food, great place. And I heard they may be adding seats!
(5)
Chrissy H.

I don't really see what the hype is about. Let's see... decent food that I can't enjoy while reading a book on my much needed break from work after the waitstaff scowls at me when I place my order. All set with that. Next. P.S. The coffee is gross.
(1)
Lilee N.

The Sandy-- highly recommend on a bulkie roll if you like chewy soft bread (uh, yum!) Rachel-- highly recommend on pumpernickel ingredients are fresh and light so you don't walk out feeling gross. the sandwiches are very satisfying. staff was nice and really friendly. downside is they only take cash, but there is an atm across the street.
(4)
Jenzy Y.

This place is REALLY GOOD. A friend lives in the area and we stopped by for a snack, and it hit the spot. In fact, we went back the last day of our visit and took sandwiches on the plane with us! We really liked Michael's Choice, a warm roast beef & beef brisket with horseradish sauce. Mmmm...
(4)
George S.

Just ate there for the first time after hearing about it for maybe the last year and a half and seeing the Boston episode of "No Reservations". Corned beef with yellow mustard on light rye. I will be going back. It is f'ing delicious people! The corned beef just melts in your mouth.
(4)
Adam B.

Went there over the weekend and got the smoked salmon bagel platter with an everything bagel. To my delight they gave everything on the side and let you build it yourself. No glob of cream cheese in the middle of the bagel or 3 inches thick cream cheese. All the ingredients were fresh and dee-lish. This morning I got a fineagle a bagel duplicate of that. Meh! Needless to say it has inspired me to write this review of michaels. This was not my first time there I usually get the same thing every time. I need to try the cold cuts, kanishes and other deli fare. 5 stars easy.
(5)
Jess H.

Not sure why people bitch about the customer service and attitude here, because when I went the guy at the register was lovely. He was so friendly and had a great disposition, even cracked some funny jokes. I even saw him encourage people to stay and sit down to eat. Maybe it's a different guy, but I thought he was great. I got a tuna sub, and it was one of the best i've had in this area. The sub roll was perfect, so fresh & very large, and the tuna was delicious! It was so big I saved half for dinner. The turkey and the reuben that I saw on my way out looked amazing too, so i'll have to come back to try those. Great place, great location.
(4)
Joey C.

Great sandwiches. Howie Carr (corned beef & beef briskey) and Rachel (spin on classic Reuben substitute with cole slaw instead of sauerkraut). Yummm. I would recommend calling ahead to pick up. It gets pretty busy in there.
(4)
Joey C.

Damn, that's good corned beef. Good service too
(5)
Callan C.

Well located classic deli near Coolidge Corner. They serve a variety of sandwiches here. I had the corned beef on rye and it was very good. The sandwiches are served with large portions of meat - you can even get half sandwiches if you aren't feeling up to the full task. The staff is polite, but definitely in a "get the job done mode" so the food comes out quickly.
(4)
Josh S.

My favorite sandwich in Boston (the Rachel - reuben sub cole slaw) - Michael's is located behind Trader Joe's and is worth a stop after you've been shopping. The deli is small and there is limited seating, but its worth the wait to grab a table. Try the pickles too.
(5)
Eve R.

As a native New Yorker, I've been excited to try Michael's for a while and am sad to report that it was a big disappointment. We tried 2 signature sandwiches and found both very underwhelming. Perhaps the build-your-own more typical deli sandwiches are better, but I don't think I'll be going again to try myself.
(2)
Scotty Z.

Wish I could comment on the food; it looked pretty good! Except, the owner was the biggest jerk SOB I've ever seen. EVER. Gave me grief over paying with a credit card, after which I offered to order the larger sandwich (knowing he was a local business owner), but he continued his incessant tirade. This is the first and *only* time I've ever called my bank to demand a chargeback (for the sandwich he charged me for but never made), and filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. Ultimately, I know small business owners get screwed with credit card fees. Many places I frequent don't accept them, which is fine. Deal with it or don't, but act like an adult.
(1)
Adriana C.

Nice freshly made sandwiches. Service is quick.
(4)
Jeff S.

Nobody has written about Michael's chicken noodle soup? Ok, I will. It's like my mother's, except she doesn't live here. I would arrange for it to come out of my tap if possible. So warm and tasty on a cold, snowy Brookline weekend afternoon. I don't know what kind of experiences people have had with Michael, but mine have been delightful. He immediately recognized my Oklahoma accent as "not from around here," then proceeded to tell me his own Oklahoma story (everyone in Boston seems to have one) despite the fact it was lunch and the place was hopping. He's remembered me each time I've been in since.
(5)
S Z.

One of the best sandwiches I have ever had. The Rachel was phenomenal. My husbands club was as well. Dont like that they only take cash.
(4)
Andre C.

Probably my favorite deli in Boston. Love the corned beef and pastrami. Favorite item is probably the pastrami knish. I love that they have cream soda as well. Worth a visit.
(4)
Oriana S.

Based on the food alone, I would have given this place four or five stars, but I won't for one reason: the owner of this place is a bit rude. He abrasive and especially mean if you are male (he's a lot nicer to the ladies). He charges an extra dollar if two people want to share a dish. How absurd is that?! Also, they don't accept credit cards, so make sure you are carrying cash with you. With that said, the breakfast bagels are yummy! I usually get the egg, ham and cheese everything bagel and a spinach kanish. I also recommend the Rachel (corned beefs sandwich)- they're very generous with their sandwich fillings! You'll leave this deli feeling full and satisfied, but also slightly bruised because the owner will probably be a bit of a jerk to you (especially if you're a guy).
(3)
Paula C.

Before Michael's, I wouldn't even go near corned beef. But then came the glorious day when their Reuben made a convert of me. In all seriousness, the best sandwich I've ever had was their Reuben. Though the price tag is a bit high (about $9 a pop), the Reuben is big enough that you can split with someone and be satisfied after, primarily because this baby comes overstuffed with corned beef. I've also tried many of the knishes, and the Pastrami knish takes the gold. The meat knish was a little bland and had a low meat-to-other-stuff ratio in the filling; the spinach knish was good, not great; but the pastrami knish was only filled with juicy, mouth-watering meat. As far as the other stuff is concerned, I couldn't tell you because I have to get the Reuben and pastrami knish every time I go; were it for these 2 items only I'd give the place 5 stars. If you're a meat-eater, bring yourself to Michael's with a very empty belly and nom on the Reuben and pastrami knish (I apologize for how many times I've repeated those words). OH -- the service is fast and friendly there too :)
(4)
Eve L.

BEST KNISHES IN BOSTON. Hands down. It's not even close. If you don't believe me, you either haven't tried them or you don't know from knishes. I'm a vegetarian, so many of their foodstuffs are off the menu for me - I'm told they have great chopped liver and great roast beef sandwiches, etc etc. But I go here for their knishes, and that's worth it, and they also happen to have a great, NYC style egg salad sandwich. That is, overstuffed and overflowing, half a sandwich is all you need kind of sandwich.
(5)
Greg R.

In general I would say the food is good, really good. If you are taking out and want a big sandwich this a good stop. That said there are a number of issues that keep this from being a five star place. - The atmosphere is not friendly. - Credit cards are not welcome. - You may be asked to leave if you're done eating - There are signs telling you that you can't sit and read, even when they are not busy. - Counter service and order-taking is slow and disorganized. - The menu is not easily visible (I think there is only one) - If you don't finish your sandwich (they are huge) and you ask to have it wrapped up you'll get a piece of foil shoved at you across the counter. If food service was just about the food this place would be great but I feel you go to a place for food + hospitality and this place is only half there.
(3)
Steve M.

I hate corned beef and this place has me coming back for a Ruben! It is that good. It is cash only and for first timers it has a somewhat intimidating feel. Just check out the menu on the side and dive in with confidence and you will not regret it!
(5)
David G.

I have heard so much about Michael's and have wanted to try it for some time. They are closed on Saturdays, (but serve bacon & sausage sandwiches?), so it has taken some time to eat here. On our visit, we had some breakfast sandwiches and they were just fine. The nova they serve is straight from a plastic package, adequate, but nothing special. The staff was very friendly! I am sorry for the rating I am giving but: Cash only ? I find cash only businesses very inconvenient. This only benefits the owner. The interior has a serous lack of style & limited seating. The display cases are sparsely filled with only a few items, not a very attractive, or appetizing display. After all I heard, I guess I just expected more. I don't like establishments that live off their reputation without striving to be better.
(2)
Doris M.

The real deal! I was on vacation and stumbled into this amazing little spot The food is delicious and totally fresh The owner is super friendly and makes sure you are satisfied
(5)
C S.

Filthy. The floors were dirty and needed to be swept and washed. The glass on the deli case was dirty and dingy. It was awful.
(1)
Daniel M.

This guy could fart in my face and I'd still buy a sandwich here, it's that good. Anyone that has something bad to say about this place is a moron. Know the drill and enjoy one of the best sandwiches you'll ever eat. The Drill: Know what you want Have cash Chew and screw. Better yet, get it to go
(5)
georgia marie l.

Alright, I am appalled that anyone would give Michael's Deli anything less than a perfect rating. The sandwiches? Out of this world, hit mine up with some cole slaw and russian dressing please! Large cucumber-like pickles are the perfect pairing with the fat stack of meet you receive nestled between bread that will make you melt. Three different kinds of potato salad, who could ask for more? Michael always takes your order and I have spent nine months of bi-weekly visits trying to coax a smile out of him. He's tough, but only because he knows better than you. This isn't the place to relax and read a book, in fact, there are signs posted specifically forbidding it. If you want to spend $5 and post up for three hours, there's a Starbucks across the street. Fall in line! Order, eat, and leave because there's a steady flow of customers who want to sit at your table. Listen, this place isn't for the faint of heart. But if you're looking for a deli, you'd be an idiot to go anywhere else.
(5)
yana v.

Went here for brunch on a gray Sunday afternoon, and even though the sky was cloudy this place put a smile in my face. My husband and I got a bagel with smoked salmon cream cheese (had chunks of salmon and chives which added a bit of delicious spiciness to the mix) and a Reuben. The bagels where were fluffy and the Reuben had soo much meat in it with tasty Sauerkraut and russian dressing. It was almost too much meat for me... I think if i was getting this sandwich alone I would split it up into two sandwiches and enjoy the goodness for that much longer. Another little treat if you're a fan is that they sell Coke in the glass bottles made with real sugar, not the corn syrup goo. Tasty. We'll be back.
(4)
C E.

I've been going here for 7 or 8 years. And it's because of Michael's that I cannot eat a Reuben or Rachel anywhere in Mass but here. Because nowhere else compares. Five stars.
(5)
SunnyDay D.

Lived about 500 steps from here for almost 2 yrs and NEVER went. I move past it , next to Cleveland Circle and FINALLY decide to go. Took me long enough! Man, was i soooo missing a great affordable sandwich! I am a HUGE fan of GOOD hot pastrami and cheese sandwiches--and I've found my place! The other sandwiches look appetizing, but unfortunately, I'm a pastrami girl, so i've yet to venture out. Friends say they love other various sandwiches. So, I would encourage you to go grab one! You'll be glad you did!!!
(4)
Rachel R.

Delicious deli food. My husband and I are soon moving out of the area and had been meaning to try Michael's Deli for years, so we stopped in today. The staff are all friendly and helpful. The food is amazing. We got a Rachel, and when they say they're the king of corned beef, they mean it. The corned beef was tender and juicy, but not overly oily or fatty; really just perfect. We also got a special: balsamic and fig glazed pastrami. We got sauerkraut on top and swiss cheese and it was very tasty. I will be back for more corned beef though.
(5)
Ryan S.

I always love the hole in the wall places and Michael's did not disappoint. We went in on a Sunday afternoon for a light lunch and were thoroughly impressed. We had the Reuben which was piled high with tender, tasty corned beef. The Russian dressing was not your garden variety and was very good on the sandwich. I got the 1/2 sandwich and it was plenty for a hearty lunchtime appetite. Our 4 year-old had salami and cheese...that was also very good. There was enough salami for 2 or 3 sandwiches and we took home the extra for sandwiches later in the week. Also, the place is small, so be prepared to carryout during peak times.
(5)
Cassie H.

I've been anxious to try this place out looking for a sandwich place here in Boston. I ordered the chicken salad on pumpernickel which was alright. The chicken salad had a lot of chicken and not a lot of filler, so you definitely get your chicken's worth for what you pay ($8/sandwich). However, I felt the chicken salad was quite tasteless. No punch, no spice, no salt? My husband had the turkey club, which he enjoyed a lot. I think next time I might try one of their famous corned beef sandwiches or the cheesesteak... And definitely remember: cash only!
(3)
Ed Y.

Another jewel in MA. Michael serves up one of the best corned beef, pastrami sandwiches i have ever eaten. As well as a number of specialty sandwiches named after local celebrities. Their bagels and lox cheese spread are one of my favorites. I highly recommend Michaels deli.
(5)
Barrett F.

Oh my dear sweet Rachel... How I adore your warm corned beef and goey drip from your fingers cole slaw. Seriously, the place has a bit of attitude, a bit of an edge. Don't sit down and read here, that's not what we're here for. And you know what, AMEN and I'm totally okay with it. The sandwhiches are out of this world. In short, it's the best sandwich I've had since i moved to Boston, in Boston or otherwise. It's not really a date place, but pick something up and race to a nearby park for a picnic--as noted in an earlier review, make sure you hurry, cause the oowy gooey amazingness will render the bread useless in keeping the sandwich together if you dont. Regardless, its definitely worth a look, though it can be a bit pricey for "just" a sandwich.
(4)
Cheester O.

What a rude f**k. Below average sandwich, not worth dealing with the prick at the register.
(1)
Mike C.

The amount of roast beef on my sandwich was absurd in a very good way. I felt like my tummy was gonna explode after feasting on the deliciousness that was the roast beef rachel. And only 9 bucks. Not bad at all...
(4)
Kris N.

Zillions of good reviews with good narrative already. I'm just gonna add my rating to help their score tally! Cash only - deal with it. Comments about owner and staff - they've always been prompt and polite, and started recognizing me after only a few visits spread out over a couple of months. Never had a bad meal, and that's a couple dozen by this point. (It's no wonder the Quiznos around the corner tanked. The Breuggers across the street would be toast as well, if not for the big discrepancy in seating options. Breuggers has free WiFi and let's you linger, while Michael's asks you not to even read at the table.) Just go. No deli, anywhere near (closest probably Brooklyn), comes anywhere close.
(5)
Dawn E.

I couldn't care less about the service here, though I haven't yet had a bad experience. What I do care lots about is tuna salad. I'm a fan of tuna salad made with solid white, and not very gloppy, and that's how they roll at Michael's. Their tuna club is a dream come true. Don't worry about being harassed in regard to seating, just get your food to go (the inevitable wolfing and/or emotional outpourings over a sandwich are better reserved for privacy anyway).
(4)
Trip B.

Oh how I love thee sweet Rachel. There is just something about the vinagary sweetmess contrasting with the fattiness of the roast beef that will make me want to take a nap after I eat you. I would eat one of these sandwiches every day if I was allowed
(5)
Kelly O.

Can't comment on any of the sandwiches, but the bagels are great, 3.5 stars. I come here specifically for a plain toasted bagel with scallion cream cheese- cheaper and arguably tastier than the other bagel joints in the area. While the grumpiness of the counter can be offputting, I've always been treated well whenever I've gone in. Gotta love the Dr. Brown soda as well.
(3)
Nancy H.

What a dump. I wish we had been warned that not a penny has been spent on improvements in many years. You order at the counter where a harried clerk rushes you. The few places to sit are beat up chairs and tables that are never cleaned. Nothing is on the table - not even S & P! The sandwiches, (served on the cheapest of paper plates with equally skimpy napkins) are good with good quality meats. But everything is extra and a problem. You want ice for your soda- they don't have it. It's not cheap 1/2 of a corn beef sandwich is $5. The rye bread was commercial not authentic Jewish rye. Poor value for ok food and no service.
(2)
P'raka ..

Awesome deli. Sandwiches are on the thick side (meaning a TON of meat on your sandwich) - I was hungry when I came so I was quite happy to see that they did not skimp on the deli meat. Good food, great coffee and fair prices. I would definitely come back.
(4)
Kappster Z.

We first caught this on No Reservations with its claim to be better than a NY deli with Anthony piggin' out and making wise cracks . I would have to agree. I love Jewish New York deli food but this was one of the best sandwich experience we ever had. First they didn't stack their meat higher than the bread itself and we could actually eat it as a sandwich. The sandwich came moist without saturating their fresh choices of bread. Fair price, 1st class quality, low key atmosphere and good portions. What else could you want?
(5)
Adam D.

Stop: don't order that deli plate for your event! I ordered deli for 35 to include Pastrami, Roast Beef, Corned Beef and Turkey. The Roast Beef was too well done and tasteless; there was no pastrami....apparently they thought it was ok to substitute salami. The potato salad and cole slaw was the usual..which most people don't eat anyway. We had to throw away 8 of the rolls because they were stale. AND we did not get the plates or napkins. I gave it two stars because the corned beef was good and the turkey was fine.
(2)
Amanda W.

Delicious sandwiches! What quality. Between the tiny, barely-pickled pickles and the not one but THREE kinds of potato salad... what more could you ask for? A New Yorker's sandwich in Boston. Or as close as I've found thus far. Warning: if you don't want to get a stern talking to, please sit down, eat your sandwich/salad/pickle/cream soda and leave. I think this is reasonable as seriously? it's a very busy lunch place. Go get on with your day!
(4)
Danielle S.

The Rachel is to die for. This is the best authentic Jewish deli in the area, hands down. Michael's is a hole in the wall and hard to miss if you're not looking carefully, but it's a must try. Everything is reasonably priced and there is seating available if you want to sit down. The place gets a little crowded during the lunch hour, but it's worth the wait every time.
(5)
Steve F.

They're not kidding. Best hot corned beef sandwiches around. Prices are a smidgen higher than your average sandwich shop...but you definately get what you pay for in quantity and quality. In response to an earlier review about the "No Cell Phone, No Book Policy". It's good that I can sit and enjoy my food there without someone hogging a seat just to loiter with a book. Those are people that should go to Starbucks where people pretend to be deep into their laptops but are instead scanning the room to check out everyone that comes in. The cell phone topic is a moot point. If you don't get that annoyance factor it's probably one of your own character hang-ups. Stick to more traditional hang-ups like knuckle-cracking, gum-smacking, nail-biting and that all too irritating "through the teeth", suck attempt at whistling to yourself that invades the ear canals of innocent hard-working people that can not easily escape your perimeter immediately.
(5)
Annie R.

what i wouldnt give for one of these sandwhiches. It is small and the table situation is awful, plus you are fighting it out with old people so you feel bad and give them your table anyways. Its best to get it to go. The corned beef tops all here. Michael himself is quite chatty, and always good for some social commentary. This is a MUST if you are near Boston.
(5)
Steve B.

I guess their 1/2 sandwich has shrunk considerably. Had I known I would've ordered the regular size. In the past the 1/2 sandwich was sufficiently packed. No more. Feh, I'll go to Zaftig's which is an overall more pleasing experience.
(2)
Ron S.

I always get the Rachel. This is seriously one of the best sandwiches you can get anywhere.
(5)
Paul W.

Haha! What a super place to grab our first meal in Boston. Nothing's better than a roast beef on rye on top of a moving box! My wife had a Reuben - which shocked me - she's not a Reuben-type if there is such a thing. Is it me, or are the sandwiches superior to anything you can find in Missouri? Folks were nicer than we thought too. They gave us a soft roll and cut-up bananas for the baby. Very sweet. A quick google search brought up this deli in my neighborhood via yelp.com . Thank's Michael's, thank you yelp.com ... TWO great discoveries in our first night in Brookline.
(5)
Alexander H.

New York Deli in Boston? Crazy you say? Yeah probably, but the corned beef sandwich was the best damn thing corned beef sandwich I've had in years so yeah. And big enough to feed two. 5 stars baby. Plus, you can actually meet Mike.
(5)
J S.

When doing a search on kosher, this shouldnt come up. They serve ham. Not kosher!
(1)
Sara M.

Even though I am Korean, St. Patrick's Day is one of my favorite holidays. Why? Because I absolutely love corned beef. Michael's Deli has the Reuben sandwich. It is warm and the sauce just drips past your fingers. It is quite large and I usually take the other half home even though I want to eat it all because it is so delectable. The half sour pickles are also good and I always steal my fiance's. I have had the potato salad but it wasn't exceptional. If you come here, get the Reuben and leave with a greasy smile on your face.
(4)
Albert D.

This place, no frills. Kick-ass pastrami, roast beef, and a simply-awesome whitefish salad. If anything, get the salad. It's so awesome, quite simply awesome.
(4)
kaif t.

Friendly service and a solid selection. A nice change from all of the fast food in Birghton and Brookline. Freshly made, fast service. Huge fan of the mango chicken salad that's dressed to order on your choice of breads. The sandwiches are quite large so bring your appetite. Usually I'm buying for groups when I go so I'm impressed that no one in my party of 2-4 every few weeks don't seem to ahve any complaints.
(4)
Julie T.

I've had Michael's Deli a couple times and I'm finally ready to review this place. So my friend and I eat out a lot and it just so happens that he's my default person to call when I need someone to eat with me and I make the assumption that I am the same to him. He wanted a sandwich really badly that day and I was just really not in the mood, but being the fantastic, absolutely beautiful and amazing friend that I am, I gave in. He said he wanted to try Michael's Deli and I knew that the place was good. I'd been times before, but when you're not in the mood, well, you're just not in the mood. Whatever. Okay. We'll go. So we went. We got there. I told him it was cash only. He didn't believe me. We went inside. We walked back out. We went across the street. A car came. We ran. We nearly got hit. We went into the bank. We giggled because I didn't want to pay. He withdrew some money. We went back across the street. We went inside. As soon as we went back inside for the second time, i realized why I loved this place. Relatively small doorway, but people order quickly so they're out of the way in less than a minute. I went back and forth and couldn't figure out what to get, but in the end, he got the Rachel and I got the Reuben. (Note: Rachels have coleslaw in them and Reubens have sauerkraut.) With drinks and all, our lunch came to about $11 a piece. We got out of the doorway and the folks working were incredibly nice. We were about to sit at a seemingly clean table before a guy behind the deli counter ran over and cleaned it for us before we sat. We thanked him and only about five minutes later, both of our hot, steaming sandwiches were ready. Corned beef poured out of the sandwiches and as my friend picked up his sandwich and stuffed his face, I picked at my sandwich with a fork until it was more manageable. There was a perfect amount of Russian dressing and sandwiched in between the soft, dark pumpernickel, the sandwich was a delight to eat. We ate and ate and by the time he finished his sandwich, I had only eaten half, but we were both huffing and puffing. I normally eat only shy of what he eats, but for some reason, he looked at me and just knew that I was full to the brim. "You're not gonna eat that other half, are you?" "No, how'd you know?" "How could I not? These sandwiches are huge." He grimaced as I took a couple more bites, eating as much as I could before giving up. Our mess covered the table: used napkins, pieces of corned beef, and bits of his coleslaw and my sauerkraut enveloped the table. I gave up and after we cleared the table, we waddled our way to the door, stopping only to drop off our trash and waving the folks goodbye as we walked out the door, speed walking across the street to get on the bus all while talking about how full we were and the next time we'd be returning.
(4)
Sasha B.

The best rubin you'll find in Boston. They bring their meat in from NY- I like that they just know to go with the best. It comes out warm and delicious, and with a homemade pickle. Basically, if you want to get a deli sandwich, come to Michael's.
(5)
Hiroko S.

Coolidge corner has a lot of sandwich choices including chain places. Don't forget about this place when you decide your sandwich lunch. Michael's has great quality and volume. I just uploaded corned beef sandwich picture. You will know how it is great. Even though it was half size of sandwich. Good enough amount of meats to make me happy.
(4)
Diana L.

This one is dedicated to all the ladies. Because we rock. You see, most of us get awful food cravings about, oh, every month or so. Usually we crave foods that make us fat and bloated, like red meat, salt and chocolate. The universe likes to play cruel jokes on us. It's like, haha, looky. We made it socially unacceptable to be fat and then we gave these womenfolk all kinds of intense hormonal desires to eat things that make them fat. Oh that's funny. Now I don't know about you guys, but people are always trying to offer me steak when I get these cravings. It makes me very cranky. Why the heck would I want to sit here chewing on little bites of steak for half an hour, when I can be consuming an entire pound of roast beef in 8 minutes flat? It's nonsense. When I say I want red meat, I mean I want it NOW. This is where Michael's Deli comes in. It's like a beacon of hope shining down upon me when I am two seconds away from drizzling hot fudge over a cow and just gnawing on it. The people who work at Michael's ply you with all kinds of meat. Lots and lots of juicy, tender, flavorful meat. And they won't judge you if you order a sandwiche that is roughly the size of your head. They encourage it. I like to get the Howie, which is about 3/4 lbs of corned beef and another 1/4 lb or so of roast beef. The meat is incredibly delicate and just falls apart in your mouth. I like it on the pumpernickel bread with lettuce, onions, tomatoes, horseradish sauce, mayo and brown mustard. Day one, I eat half the sandwiche. Day two, I take some of the meat I've got left and throw it over scrambled eggs and toast. Later that night, I make the rest of it into French dip sandwich (remaining meat with cheese on a grilled baguette and some onion soup for dipping). That's three meals for about $10. Not too shabby, huh?
(5)
Arf A.

On the recommendation of reviewers and friends I decided to order the rachel as my first experience here. It left me somewhat disappointed. My goal was to really taste the corned beef but I sabotaged myself with this sandwich. Corned beef cheese coleslaw and russian dressing. Not surprised by the components but by the texture and amounts of condiments. Basically two mayo based dressings coat the mouth and unfortunately the whole thing devolved into a soggy mess that just tastes like mayo and not a lot like corned beef. To be fair I've had this type of sandwich before and loved it , i think just dial back the dressings, but I probably should have tried a plain corn beef to really judge it. Transaction and service were fine and I was surprised by the creativity of the menu when i got there (dirty sandwiches with chips on them, pumpkin pie knishes) which I wish was represented better on the website. Prices are high and sandwich was decent but not "large". For comparison's sake Zaftigs same reuben type is much larger a good 50% more meat, tastes better and includes fries for only a couple bucks more. All told I'm definitely going to go back to try some other things on the menu but i would advise against the rachel. I'll happily give more stars based on what else I try, but might be a while as prices are prohibitive enough that it won't be a work-day regular.
(3)
Claire N.

The Rachel (a rueben with cole slaw) is delcious. So are the pickels. YUM!!!!
(5)
Shannon F.

I had some business in Coolidge Corner today and i got hungry! I walked into Michael's Deli after noticing their "Phantom Gourmet" banner hanging proudly on their storefront. I took a quick look around for a "people love us on yelp" sticker, but didn't see one anywhere and figured I'd take the chance anyway. I ordered a turkey sandwich and then saw their old register and realized they probably don't take cards. I should have known, as the place really did just look like a classic deli- the kind you can only find in old neighborhoods like the one i was in. I told the guy I didn't have cash and I had to run to the atm. I thought for sure that when i got back, I'd have to wait in line and order again, but to my surprise, my sandwich was ready for me on the counter! There was a boat-load of turkey on the sandwich. It was a nice sandwich... nothing spectacular, nothing out of this world, just a nice turkey sandwich. I chose to ignore the signs next to every single table that said "Please do not read in our dining room" Hello?! I was eating alone, and i'm reeeeally into my book. I was NOT willing to follow the rules. I tried not to lolly-gag, and I went on my way. Next time I'm in C.C and i'm in the mood for a sandwich, I might stop in and try something a little more adventurous.
(3)
Michael A.

Great Kosher food! I love the sandwiches.
(5)
J G.

The food is why people come here and it is the best. No doubt in my mind. You get what you pay for.
(5)
Michael C.

Went here for the second time yesterday and had their current special. The first time I went I wasn't super impressed with my sandwich, but this time I wished I had order two. The sandwich was awesome and I will definitely be coming back on a more regular basis. I also suggest trying their different sodas.
(4)
Adam E.

No lie, I went in here today and the prick behind the counter bitched me out for using my debit card. He went on and on about how he "hates accepting them for less than $12," and only does because it's the law. AND THEN, he yelled to the guy making sandwiches- "Credit Card, you know what to do," and the guy made my sandwich about 50% of what it usually is. I am dizzyingly irate and will never, ever go back to Michael's, even if I have cash in my pocket. What a bunch of assholes.
(1)
Katie R.

Had a great bagel and lox here. Everyone else enjoyed their food. The place was totally empty, and we sat at one of the tables to eat. As soon as we were done eating, the worker came over and asked us to leave, even though the other 3-4 tables were completely empty. This is absolutely no way to treat customers. We spent good money, and of course would have left if the place had been busy. The food was great, but I won't go back.
(1)
Shannon S.

This place is delicious but completely easy to walk by it's so small and unassuming. But! It's so New York that Boston people don't know what to do with it. Fresh, awesome deli meat, cheap--affordable--delicious. It's pretty straight forward--huge deli counter about 8 tables, somewhat dark and narrow area, the owner is a New York guy with a sort of in-your face friendly directness. A bagel with fresh cream cheese is 1.50 and a Sausage, Egg and Cheese bagel is 2.00--an awesome price and a HEAPING breakfast sandwich. Love their Chicken salad. It's small, real, straight-forward--and if you want real, fresh, great deli meat--they know it at Michael's Deli--and you know if the meat is awesome, the sandwiches (all fresh--baked bread--gigantic in size) will be just what you need almost any day.
(4)
Erik G.

Never will you have a better Reuben sandwich than at Michael's. Corn beef piled high, awesome Russian dressing, and fresh-made bread... hot damn, that's good sandwich. Also, they're the only place in Boston that knows how pickles are supposed to be done, and they have tremendous pickled herring. The Reuben gets five stars, but other things here can be a little inconsistent. I had a Pig Out Sandwich (roast pork, cranberry sauce, and stuffing on light rye) that I would describe as 'meh', and their cold sandwiches can vary greatly from day to day. Still, if you're a seeker of corned beef, look no further. The owner is there most days, and though he'll originally strike you as cantankerous/crotchety, he's actually a really nice guy, who'll treat you right once he gets to know your face. Try to hit the place at off-peak hours, since they've only got seating for about 12 people, and the lunch line is consistently out the door.
(4)
Kristin S.

Mike's is definitely good, I mean everything is imported from NY! The knishes are just like I used to get in my school cafeteria (and thats a good thing!) but its probably because they come from the same supplier. So do you give Mike credit for a good deli or being a good importer? I'm not sure. Regardless, Michael himself is a super nice and funny, so even if you can't credit him for the amazing imported food, he's still a good guy. The reubens are fantastic even if they spell it rubin. (Although the bread should be a tad thicker- its gets very soggy very quickly) And of course I check to see if they have Snapple which they don't.....they did have Dr. Browns Celery Soda which made my husband's day. All in all this has to be one of the top choices you have when you're looking for lunch in Brookline. They also do a great job with catering, my friend gets the platters for football games every Sunday.
(4)
Barney B.

Holy pile of meat, Batman. exactly what a deli should be. secluded and off from the typical foot traffic of Coolidge Corner, but those few extra steps get you to some good eats. Sure you have choices in the area for sandwiches - Quizno's, Panera, etc - but they all suck and this place definitely blows them away in taste, quantity and quality.
(4)
Kathryn S.

After watching Anthony Bourdain review some places in Boston I decided to go to Michaels Deli on Harvard St in Brookline. I was with a friend and we both ordered the NY Corned Beef Sandwich on pumpernickel. We sat at one of the few tables in front of the meat and salad case. I was shocked to see the meat just thrown in the meat case on display totally unwrapped. The salads all on display with no covers on them either. Looked like deli cases needed a good cleaning...I was disgusted by the cleanliness of this place. The Health Dept should take a good look at the condition of the foods,how there are stored and the hygiene of this establishment. I would grade this place with a big red C on the window!!
(1)
Ken B.

This is a straight forward deli. Little room for eating, but they make delicious sandwiches. I am a fan of the Rachel. Yummy Corned Beef and Coleslaw.
(4)
Adam C.

Pure heaven. You get every bit of quality, flavor, and the expected Boston service at Michael's. I used to eat here once a week, if not more. Within the Brookline area, I rate it as the best place to eat. Hands down. Big portions, great old country appeal. Love it.
(5)
Lynn H.

This is a delicious deli that has managed to secure a pretty solid fan base in Coolidge Corner, the epicenter of many a Jewish deli in Brookline. I love that they have a half-sandwich option because their portions are huge and sometimes I just don't have time to take a nap after lunch. The last time I was there with friends I sampled a bite of each person's sandwich and I'm happy to report that the turkey, pastrami, corned beef, roast beef, and white fish salad are all excellent choices! I'd suggest asking to have your sandwich toasted because it only makes it more delicious. Also, FYI there isn't very much seating in the place so it may be best to take your order to go if possible.
(4)
Michael C.

As close to a NYC Deli that you'll find near Boston. The corned beef is melting in my mouth as I write....mmmmmmm good!
(5)
Dan S.

Terrific corned beef sandwiches and Rubens. BUT...no potato pancakes, no blintzes? Get on the ball, Mikey.
(4)
Jenny N.

Michael's doesn't joke around with the meats. They roast their own and it's quality fo' sure. While this ain't no fancy-pants "sandwich bar," they do offer a mango chicken salad that sat next to three kinds of potato salad in the deli case. I actually ordered a really tasty "Thanksgiving sandwich" filled with thinly sliced turkey breast, real cranberry sauce and stuffing--all this in between two soft and thick slices of bread, which amounted to a 3-inch high creation. I have to admit that I'm not a fan of the pickles they serve here--but maybe I just got a bad one, as it tasted pretty fishy for a vegetable. Oh, and the sweet potato knish is a perfect brunch food! One last note: If you are a true glutton, try the 3 lb. "Bostonian" (turkey, corned beef & pastrami). And yes, they actually weigh this sandwich to make sure there is the correct amount of meat in there. I'm still not convinced it is worth $15, but it is surely the most ginormous meat+bread creation I have ever laid eyes on. I witnessed a guy eat this, and thankfully, he did not die of cardiac arrest. Michael's gets one extra star from me because it has old-fashioned neighborhood charm. I mean, you know it's gotta be good when you see the local cops belly up to the counter!
(4)
Jordan K.

Yum. One of the things I miss about Boston.
(5)
Ryan J.

Food was really good. One of the workers was a little grumpy. Sort of reminded me of the soup Nazi. I'll be back though.
(4)
sal k.

Yes, the guys an a-hole, but no it doesn't make this place terrible. The sour tomatoes and pickles are absolutely to die for, and the corned beef can't be beat. The pastrami is really good too. IMO, your better off ordering meats and sides and buying bread somewhere else to make your own sandwich. Clearflour bread with corned beef and cole slaw is an amazing combo.
(4)
Andrew B.

When it comes to lunch, nothing beats a huge, freshly cut deli meat sandwich. That's what Michael's has to offer. When you walk in, there is someone waiting to take your order and hand you a sandwich. Once you enter further though, you see the long deli meat counter that stretches towards the back wall and realize that they focus on providing good deli meat, sandwiches were the next logical step. If you want to make your own sandwiches, they offer their deli meats and reasonable per pound prices.
(3)
Kylie S.

I ordered the tuna melt but received a tuna sandwich instead so I was pretty disappointed. I should have pointed this out but chose to just eat it. The tuna salad was good--they use good mayonnaise and albacore tuna. The service was not especially friendly and I didn't love the atmosphere. They do have really good sodas--IBC rootbeer and DR. Browns. And they sell frozen blintzes. And I'll bet if I ate corned beef I'd be crazy about this place.
(3)
Jessica C.

Whole in the wall deli with exceptional quality and service. Don't mess around with anything else but the corned beef. Yum! And enjoy the giant pickle on the side. Make sure you pack a mighty appetite too as the portions are HUGE! I'd plan to eat in but be ready to take it out as there aren't many seats inside... This is the kind of place where even the workers can't help themselves - the food is so good that I once saw the guy that slices the meats sneak a bit and then look over his shoulder to make sure no one saw... but I saw... and I don't blame him. It's delish. ;)
(5)
Ricky B.

Terriffic corned beef! I even had a potato knish that was delicious. They claim to have the BEST corned beef in Boston...they might just be right! Try Michael's!
(4)
KZ B.

Love their portions, Mike is always funny at the register. I enjoy going to Michael's Deli on the weekend when we're in town. See you next weekend!
(5)
Michael W.

Michael's Deli rocks, it is well known to the Coolidge Corner Community, but I don't know about the rest of Boston. The place seems to be hidden even thought its right near the corner of Beacon and Harvard. Sandwiches are piled high with freshly roasted meats from Michael's kitchen and the salads and knishes are great. His bagels are imported from H&H Bagels in NYC and they are the best. Take some frozen ones home and have fresh bagels every morning. If you looking for a real turkey club hit up Michael's don't bother waiting in that line for Zaftigs....
(5)
Steve W.

You have tried the rest now try the best. Micheal's Deli is the Bomb!!! Best knishes this side of chelsea. Everything is fresh and delish!! Corned beef brought in from ny and cooked on site. Ask and he will let ypu sample anything in the house, if u dont like he willnot push it on you, example if you think the corned beef s dry he will open another for you. Bread brought in fresh daily!! My copliments to the chef!!! keep that corned beef comming.
(5)
T D.

This is by far the best Reuben sandwich I have ever had. While visiting Boston, I made the trek to Michael's Deli just for their sandwiches. It was fantastically huge and so, so good. Just two days later I had a Reuben at the infamous Katz Deli in NYC which didn't come close to what I ate at Michael's Deil. The place is small and in need of some updates, but the sandwiches cannot be beat! You rock my world Michael's Deli!
(5)
Randall K.

Man, Michaels Reuben sandwich is just piled high with juicy, melt in your math corned beef, and is always accompanied with a pickle. Finish all of this off with a Dr Brown soda and you have one of the best places to eat in Boston!
(5)
Allison B.

so, i really want to give this place another shot before i fully commit to this middle-of-the-road review. + high quality. freshly sliced deli meat, soft, delicious bread. + reasonable price. i believe they charge by the pound here, so what you see is really what you get, in terms of price. + small business. gotta love em. the owner is totally nice too. - im a borderline sandwich snob, and the only gripe i have about micheal's is that the sandwiches are meat heavy. meat obese. meat mountains. for some people, that's a one-way ticket to heaven. but i had to take half of the meat off and put it on its own bread later when i got home, and all the while i was wishing for a little lettuce, tomato, pickles, sprouts -- something! -- to interrupt the overwhelming quanitity of meat. that being said, this review is in limbo, because i think someone else ordered for me. thus, it is subject to editing upon re-trial (i'm optimistic!)
(3)
kevin l.

When you go to Michael's Deli for the first time you have to choose the Reuben as your first sandwich. It's perfect. I checked out their website before going there ( delitogo.com ) and I was sold on their Reuben the moment I saw the picture. Something about their sandwiches tastes so clean and fresh compared to other deli's. (Sorry for the So Cal reference but) Michael's Deli is like the In-and-Out of all hamburger places! Their sandwiches are REALLY big! Enough for two people to share. And I love the homemade pickles! If you've got the craving for good deli then this is the place to go.
(5)
Steve S.

This place doesn't eeven have a kitchen. That says it all. He just orders cold cuts and slices them up. You'd be better off going to the super market bring home yor pastrami, corned beef etc. and doing it yourself.
(1)
E D.

Best chicken salad EVER! Love Mike's Deli!
(5)
Allison M.

Downside: No breakfast and brunch food after noon. Upside: Roast beef sandwiches and tuna melts at Michael's still taste good as the first meal of the day. The sandwiches are delicious, despite the "hole-in-the-wall" appearance, and the atmosphere is overall comforting. If you want a scrumptious, no-frills experience, Michael's is a good choice for you (and your wallet).
(4)
Jason M.

Best Jewish deli in the area. (Zaftigs is a tourist trap).
(5)
A. T.

Michael isn't a jerk, he's just Bostonian -- well, from Marblehead, actually. The corned beef here beats Slyman's (Cleveland) by a hair, and easily beats any smoked meat sandwich I've eaten in Montreal. Don't get take-out, because by the time you get home the coleslaw/sauerkraut will render your Rachel/Reuben a squishy mess.
(5)
Michelle P.

Egg sandwiches. Go.
(5)
Ken C.

Being an ex-new yorker, I'm a bit of a snob when it comes to deli (pizza as well of course, but that's another story). Living in Washington Square, I used to go to the B&D Deli all the time, but after it changed ownership it really went downhill, resulting in the empty storefront it is today. So I was psyched when Michaels opened, allthough skeptical, being dissappointed so many times with the Bostonian preparation of corned beef and pastrami (throw it on the grill). I ordered the reuben, and soon heard the wonderful sound of the steamer - the proper way to heat up these glorious meats. I could tell as soon as the plate was put in front of me that my prayers had been answered. This is the real deal. Dare i say, better than some places I've been to in NY. The corned beef and pastrami are top notch. However, the sleeper is the meatball foot long sandwich. Better than just about any italian joint/sub shop save for a few North End spots. Highly recommended, and for $6.99, a killer deal. The thanksgiving sandwich is great as well, don't forget to get mayo on it though, or it can be a bit dry. Mango Chicken salad is another unique offering that sounds kinda funny but is awesome. The guys can be a bit stressed and grumpy sometimes, (after all, it is a Jewish deli!) but just give it back to them and they will lighten up. I particularly like gawking at the hot chicks that walk by with Michael while waiting for my sandwich. And you've gotta love the "No Reading" signs everywhere! This place is not for everyone (re: uptight New Englanders) but if you can get into the spirit of it, you will be back again and again.
(4)
A Z.

I am absolutely befuddled by the positive reviews of this place. My Italian sandwich was thoroughly unimpressive. Bland partially stale bread with meat that tasted like it was from a high school cafeteria.
(1)
Vivian S.

Wow, this man behind the counter has to be the rudest man I've met in the past year or years. I picked up a drink and was looking at the sandwich menu when he suddenly told me he was closed at 5: 40pm. I don't think this is a normal closing hour. He must have been a manager which I would think usually try to please the customer. I was in the middle of getting rung up for my drink when he says he was closed. If you live in Brookline, please don't go here as I have never seen such awful rudeness in Boston. ( I thought it was the drivers were bad but now the "rudeness flu" apparently hit this ugly little deli in Coolidge Corner. This is such a nice area that the deli doesn't belong with it's poor manners. Shame on MR. checkout at the deli! I hope he gets some rudeness back as a taste of his own medicine!
(1)
Jeff B.

Mike was ready to close the place up at 10 minutes before 3pm on a Sunday afternoon, yet he let us in and told us to take our time. The Reuben sandwich had about a pound of the freshest, best tasting corned beef I had ever had. The place is small, yet comfortable. I enjoyed the looks of the vintage display coolers. I also like any place where you can get a can of orange San pellegrino. do work baby!
(5)
Katherine W.

I love this place, easy to get take-out and perfect for a quick bite on the weekends. I am a sucker for the fresh nova on a bagel (their bagels are delicious), but every once in a while I will get a Reuben (no 'kraut) which is also delicious, albeit messier. I love how friendly and efficient everyone that works here is. They may not know our names, but we feel welcome every time. And on a side note, a nice older gentleman told my boyfriend and I that we should get married... ;)
(5)
Jamie N.

Oh no! I'm in Brookline, I only have ten bucks in my pocket, and I am STARVING. Think quick! Finagle my ass on a Bagel? Bruegger's Bagels? Hmm...I'm starting to notice a trend about this town. Overpriced Indian places? Too expensive. Sushi? No. I want a sanwich, a big, juicy, sandwich. Have no fear, Michael's Deli is here! Go to Coolidge Corner. Walk less than a block down Harvard. There he is! Don't miss it - this is a small corner deli, the kind I always dreamed of as a small child in Pennsylvania with desires for non-Subway sandwich shops and a sandwich big enough to take up every inch of room in my California Raisans lunch box. Michael is behind the counter most of the time. You'll recognize him because he is large, in charge, and nice as can be. This dude wants to feed you. Now, check out the black forest ham sandwich. It's big! It's bold! Get it with Italian dressing, chips, and chow down on that pickle. Michael's Deli is the first place I have enjoyed a pickle in my life. The man knows dill. Once you order your sandwich and it is speedily plopped on the high meat counter in front of you, thank Michael, open mouth, insert sandwich. Smile and enjoy.
(5)
Zizzles A.

This was one of my favorite lunch spots last year when I only took two classes and had all the time in the world. A reuben or pastrami reuben here, some ice cream maybe, a quick check of the sales rack at the booksmith, and then a couple of hours at barnes and noble. That was an average afternoon for me. It sucks though now that I'm swamped, I can't go to my beloved coolidge corner as often anymore. The deli items are pretty good. I'm no conisseur, but the chopped liver is about as good as Zaftigs, and it seems like it's a bit cheaper. They have tasty potato salad and knishes also. Of course, my favorite thing there will always be the pastrami or corned beef reuben. steamed pastrami or corned beef on toasted or untoasted (kind of strange that they change it up sometimes depending on the guy you get, but I like it either way) dark rye, a heap of saurerkraut and just the right amount of sweet russian dressing (I hate it when people put too much). Wow. 8 dollars, so it's not cheap, but not exactly expensive either considering how much corned beef you get. At one point I went once or twice a week, and got to know Mike and some of the other guys that worked there. They never had a problem with me using my credit card on an 8 dollar sandwich. In fact, they usually don't even make me sign the receipt. It's stupid that I've been here so many times, and yet I haven't tried the tongue or the thanksgiving sandwich. I have tried the ken jaffe, seeing my beloved chopped liver in it. A big mistake. It was too freaking big for one, but it was also extremely heavy. A thick...thick layer of chopped liver and over a half a pound of meat? Yeah...not a good idea. I prefer the regular meat portion and the nice kraut. I'm a quiet, and slightly awkward person, but the staff has always made small talk with me anyway. They explain their favorites, and talk about random things like the Tibetan riots? haha. God I miss this place.
(4)
Daniel H.

Heaping sandwiches and Pearl brand all beef franks make Michael's Deli a supreme lunch spot. Personally, I really don't like Michael (the owner). He is full of himself, is rather belittling towards his customers, and loves to make a point. His business makes up for this deficit. Those who work for him have always been friendly and make up for Michael's lack of social awareness. The deli itself has few tables, so be prepared to put your time in for a table if you are heading over there on the weekend lunch rushes. Michael's is not someplace where you'd sit and have a nice leisurely lunch and enjoy good company. Chances are another customer eagerly awaiting a table will promptly shoot you the hairy eyeball as you near the end of your meal. You are at Michael's to simply enjoy a magnificent sandwich and get on with the rest of your day (provided you don't eat yourself into the ground). Parking can be difficult since the deli is barely a block away from Coolidge Corner, so you'll have to be cut-throat. Recommendations: *Pickles *Pearl hotdog on a bulkie roll or challah with slaw and muenster *Hot corned beef on challah with muenster, mayo and a side of honey mustard for dipping. Note: the kinishes are "bleh," but I've never really met one I liked, and I suppose I never really acquired a taste for them. I'm not jewish.
(4)
Sarah C.

Favorite deli! Such great value for your money. Romanian pastrami, corned beef, and chopped liver are the only ones I've had so far, but they're too good to stray. Like 4 different kinds of mustard to pick from, lots of bread choices, plus the usual fixins. Not very many tables, but the crowd turns quickly, so eat there or take it home. AND they have Moxie! Oh, it's kind of hilarious how they ration the napkins (they give you one for your big, messy sandwich), but I'm over it :)
(5)
Dave B.

Not much to say...great food marred by an owner with a serious attitude problem. He seems to think the way to prove it's authentic deli is to give his best impression of a "rude New Yorker." Seriously, man...give it a rest and lighten up.
(3)
Dave G.

Michael's reminds me of the little deli that used to be across the street from my girlfriend's old apartment. They're the kind of place that's really no-frills, but what they do, they do VERY well. The food is always tasty and their sandwiches are huge. The only reason that I didn't give Michael's five stars is because the first time I ordered a meatball sub there, I got food poisoning. But, on the assurance of a friend that it was an isolated incident, I went back and every single time I've been there since everything has been great.
(4)
M T.

The worst service ever in the city. I'm even considering on calling Boston Magazine to revoke their 2010 Best of Boston win. I tried this place for lunch with a coworker. Sandwich was just good, not amazing, which is fine. Guy behind the counter, I bet it's Michael, forced us out of our chairs because I was eating and writing on a notebook at the same time. We were barely there for 15 mins eating, talking and working at the same time. When we got up, he said in the background, "just eat and get out." There's an excuse for bad food, but there's no excuse for rude service. Don't even give this guy a penny of your wallet.
(1)
Aaron B.

Warning, stay away from the whitefish salad. Mike himself mixes it up from cocaine, nicotine, caffeine, and whitefish. It could be the worlds most addictive substance. I can't pass through Coolidge Corner without stopping by and picking up a pound for the road. And that lasts about a day. The corned beef and pastrami sandwhiches are huge and melt in your mouth delicious. The one thing keeping this from 5 stars is the bread. Mike, you GOTTA do something about the bread. Its not the best to begin with, and gets soggy the minute it hits the beef. Its the one thing keeping this from being in the annals of corned beef sandwich lore. Everything is homemade/mixed/smoked etc by Mike himself, and all the guys behind the counter are very friendly. I wish I was around there for lunch enough to become a regular.
(4)
Chris K.

Delicious corned beef reubens and rachels. Couldn't ask for more meat in a sandwich. Stupid rules about no reading at the tables inside and the owner is not willing to accept credit/debit cards probably because he doesnt want to pay the small amount that the companies charge him to use the card machine. If you can look past this they have the best sandwiches around - I just had the Thanksgiving Sandwich on toasted Rye today and it was exquisite, much better than the pre-packaged meat I would have had to endure at Quiznos/Brueggers/Panera. Definitely worth your money
(4)
Sarah W.

I feel like Michael's is one of those places in Coolidge that you could just walk by a million times before really noticing it's there, but you will absolutely thank yourself for going in. Delish, classic Jewish deli. The Thanksgiving and Mango Chicken Salad sandwiches are my favorites on the menu, soooo good. Knishes are tasty too, and the matzo ball soup is better than you'd expect! (Only because I've found so much sub-par matzo ball soup in my lifetime...) Awesome place, and a great way to support independent businesses in the neighborhood.
(4)
Andrew T.

I would eat Jewish Deli food every meal of my life if I could. Corned beef sandwich, a pickle, a side of potato salad, and a Dr Browns cream soda. What's better? Nothing. Michaels is a no frills deli just across from Trader Joes, on Harvard Ave. As soon as you walk in, it smells like good Jewish deli food. Knishes, corned beef, Dr Browns sodas (including celray), potato salad, lox, giant breakfast sandwiches, etc etc etc. All good, all big portions. Service is brisk and friendly, but just don't linger at one of the few tables in the place after you have finished eating. If others are waiting, the staff will give you the bum's rush out, which is totally reasonable if you think about it. Just know it is coming, and you won't be offended.
(4)
Sweet T.

Sandwiches are large, which is nice - but def. better to get them to go, since, although there is seating, it's not a great atmosphere to eat in. Sort of dark with black walls. Seems to me like the main purpose of this place is to be a meat counter, and they just happen to serve sandwiches on the side.
(3)
Sofia H.

i finally made it over to michael's the other week after months of biking right by it. I loved it straight off the bat because as you enter it smelled exactly like the delicatessen/bottega that I grew up going to back in Italy- the incredible smell of great cold cuts, cheeses and just that same type of style of serving (btw this place is NOT at all italian, i'm just comparing it to childhood memories...) the smoked turkey sandwich I had was not only huge but it was also amazing. Their honey mustard was unlike anything else I've tried with any meat and it all tasted so fresh. Also, the number of options you have are countless whether you want to get a 'signature' sandwich or make your own. I would highly highly recommend this place if you're on the go and if you want some great cold cuts in brookline!
(4)
Mike R.

As close to New York deli as you're going to find in the Boston area. They have the basics covered - excellent knishes and deli sandwiches. I consider a pastrami on rye with mustard to be the standard at any Jewish deli, and Michael's certainly does a very respectable job. Any of the other deli sandwiches I've had there are also good. They also have good bagels and lox and whitefish salad as well. Their menu is reasonably priced and while the service is not extremely friendly - bordering on mildly brusque, in fact - they're certainly quick and efficient. Forget the lines at Zaftig's - I have been there once and while it was okay, I'll never understand why there's constantly a line on the weekends at that place.
(4)
Andrea K.

best corned beef in the boston area, hands down. don't bother eating it there, it's kind of small and cramped and blah, but either take it home or go eat it on a nice sunny park bench in brookline somewhere. i'm so glad they have corned beef rachels, because sometimes rachels have turkey instead, but corned beef and cole slaw is like the greatest combination in the whole world. also, i'm a jewish girl from long island, so i'm pretty picky about my corned beef and even for New York standards, the meat they have here is very good.
(5)
Ashley S.

The sandwiches are really good, and really big. I love the chicken club sandwich and I hear the corned beef is wonderful. The owner seems a little quirky, and said a comment to me that seemed a little rude, but I think it was just a strange attempt at a joke. The food makes it worth it.
(4)
Joe S.

Food is amazing. Fills you up fast. Only has a few tables, so definitely better for take out. Very friendly services as well.
(4)
Alexander S.

This review is dedicated to the glory of the old school deli, a true rarity in Boston. I've probably been here 100 times, so I'm not messing around when I say this is the best corn beef and the best turkey I've ever tasted. Out of this world!! I usually go for a traditional Rubin or a turkey off the frame with cheddar, Russian, lettuce, and tomato. You can't go wrong with the classics They also make delicious knish's with pastrami in them. And they have Dr. Browns soda, the best soda of all time!
(5)
Keith G.

Ordered a brisket sandwich. It was terrible. Simply pure fat. Could;t eat. Didn't return to the counter as too busy to make a fuss. Ate the tasteless chicken soup. So close to NYC yet so far from even prison food. To call themselves a deli is a sham and no second chances here!
(1)
Albion A.

Solid Food, great employees and an awesome old school Deli Feel! I would recommend the Roast Beef and the Corned beef sandwiches! If you can make them dirty by adding the chips then do it!
(4)
Xiao Z.

I've driven by this place countless times, each pass left me salivating with the prospects of delicious mouthful of pastrami and beef. Even if you completely ignore all of the signs and advertisements on the store ceiling, one step into the establishment and you'll know why this place is so well acclaimed. I came here after a wonderful summer jog, and I gotta say, pastrami and fig sandwiched served in a bulky roll was both wonderful and stomach churning after a good workout. My weak stomach aside, the pastrami was delicate, full of flavor and just had a hint of the fig+balsamic dressing. I would definitely come back again and sample the rest of the sandwiches! Food: 5 stars Price: 4 stars Service: 5 stars (the patron was very friendly and made me feel right at home) Decor: 3 stars (would be 5 if there were outdoor seating)
(5)
Anna T.

I consider myself something of a deli-style food connoisseur, so trust me when I say Michael's is ON POINT with their offerings. I've had everything from a bagel with cream cheese and whitefish to a corned beef sandwich and side of coleslaw and I have yet to be disappointed by this gem of a deli. Their potions are monstrous, their food is fresh, and their service is fast and friendly. This is NOT a Jewish deli, but a Jewish-style deli with offerings like kosher hot dogs in their freezer and Knishes in their display cabinet. They offer sliced meats and deli sides to go or they have a sit down and eat menu. They also cater if you're looking for that. The place is cash-only so be forewarned but fear not, there is a Bank of America across the street if you miss the 15 signs that say "CASH ONLY!". They have some awesome surprises too like Halva candy and Dr. Browns soda cans, way to represent Michael's! If you're looking for some quick, tasty deli eats in the Brookline area, I highly suggest stopping in to Michael's Deli!
(5)
Kelsey W.

Cash only, which is a little annoying, but this place is totally worth it! I went in for the first time on a whim with my parents and we all enjoyed our sandwiches. Big, lots of meat, and great flavor. Plus their customer service was awesome. What more could you want from a deli?
(5)
AJ K.

This place is as good as it gets. I recently relocated back to Boston after living in New York for the past 10 years. Coming from New York, I think I am an expert on Delis. This place is on par with some of the best. Unlike a true Jewish Deli (and something I LOVE about Michaels) is that you can get cheese on your sandwich, SCORE! I'm a creature of habit, I always get what would be considered a "New Yorker". Hot Pastrami and Corned Beef with Swiss and Russian Dressing on a Bulky Roll (You can get any roll or bread you want, this is what I choose). The meet is warm, tender, flavorful...divine. The melted cheese blends into it perfectly. The russian dressing ties it all together and the bulky roll prevents it from getting soggy. This is my favorite Sandwich pretty much ever (with the exception of the Crispy Chicken Sandwich at Van Horn Sandwich Shop in Brooklyn). It is going to run you around $10 and it is CASH only (something thats always annoying for people who pay for everything with Debit like me). Go Check it out and see why its been voted best of Boston 1000x
(5)
Ted M.

You know you've found a truly spectacular spot when they have survived for a significant amount of time accepting only cash in a food-loving area like Coolidge Corner. I don't care what the cost or what form of payment is required, a Michael's sandwich is worth it. Scratch that - not just "worth it," but life-changing. I would highly recommend the Sandy, Todd Feinberg, or chicken salad club. If you're not a spiritual person before taking your first bite, you will be soon after!!!
(5)
Alex S.

Michael's Deli is one of my new favorite places to eat in Brookline. The owner is super nice and even gives you free potato salad for checking-in via Yelp! They have a variety of options from turkey and corned beef to tongue and liver. I ended up getting the Maple Mustard Corned Beef sandwich on light rye with a side of hot garlic pickles. Oh the pickles. I love them so. Generous servings and very reasonable prices. Check out my blog (complete with pictures and childish humor) for the full review! thesuchef.org/2013/09/30â€¦
(5)
Harri S.

Get the Rachel (no, not the popular late 90s haircut), eat the Rueben. Both are MINDBLOWINGLY good. Skip the knishes, they need seasoning and they're not especially fresh Try some weird soda. Not the celery one though.
(5)
R P.

The pastrami & corned beef sandwiches were AMAZING!
(5)
Gary M.

Fantastic! The sandwiches are large and tasty. Many times I have had to split the eating into two rounds waiting between. My favorites are the Rueben and Thanksgiving. So good!
(5)
John M.

Tried the beef tongue last time, very juicy. Had the middle of the tongue (because they actually give you a choice, and the middle is the flavorful part, great attention to detail). However, I was very disappointed in the house made potato salad. It was very bland and was so cold I could only recognize the potato because of the usual mealyness. Potato salad should be room temperature in the coldness so the whole thing doesn't taste like the fridge.
(3)
Olivia L.

I recently moved to Brookline and had been eager to try Michael's Deli, based on the good reviews it has received. I was not disappointed when I had the opportunity to try it! The ample proportions of my "half" sandwich were astounding and the accompanying sides were delightful, also! So glad that Michael's offers good quality chips and upscale soft drinks. The customer service is excellent here, too! The counter man was friendly and didn't get impatient with me when I had a little trouble deciding what to order. He told me to take my time and then made my sandwich quickly when I was ready. I will be a repeat customer at this friendly little hole in the wall! Great value and quality.
(5)
Ambrose C.

Do you sometimes wonder what a "knish" is? Are you also looking for a good pastrami and corn beef sandwich? Well if you are looking for both, this place has your answer. A knish (KE-NI-SH) is supposedly a small baked or fried pastry with some sort of filling inside that's popular in Jewish cuisine, and it's one of the most quintessential dishes.I got a pastrami knish and a potato knish. The potato knish was really good, it was nice and warm, and I really liked the chewiness. The pastrami knish was also nice and warm, with good flavor from the meat. Adding a little mustard to the pastrami knish made it even tastier. Two units of pastrami knish should be enough for a light lunch or a hearty snack. A potato knish is a great side dish if you are eating something like a small sandwich or even a 8 ounce (227g) steak. The sandwiches are impressive as well. I had a Corned Beef Reuben, supposedly one of the most popular sandwiches in Jewish cuisine. This sandwich has pumpernickel bread, Russian dressing, and Sauerkraut. The bread was decently toasted, with a little crispiness. The meat was nicely hot enough and they provided a generous helping. I really liked the warm, tender and meaty taste of the corn beef with the slightly crispy bread. The Russian Dressing and the sourness of the Sauerkraut just made the meat and the entire sandwich tastier. The place only accepts cash as payment, which is not a serious problem. However, one major improvement is that I think the guy who works at the cash register and takes the orders just needs to be a little kinder, sincerer and a little more genuine. If that happens, this deli could become one of the best delis in the nice and quiet community of Brookline. The really cool thing though is that he has met some fairly famous people like Anthony Bourdain. Overall, this is a good choice to get a knish and a corn beef sandwich for a hearty lunch. If I was craving for a good knish, and a sandwich at the same time, I would probably come back here again.
(4)
N H.

Wow! Their corned beef sandwich is amazing... and the real thing. I've had plenty of corned beef and reuben sandwiches at delis around Boston but none come close to Michael's. I'm usually wary of corned beef since it's usually too salty or too meaty/chewy when I get it at the grocery store, Real Deal, or Boar's Head, but Michael's is the best, hands down! They're a cash only place, but the people who work there are super friendly and work hard to make sure they get your order right. Even though they may be a bit more pricey than Bruegger's or Panera Bread, I'm coming here more often to get my lunch!
(5)
Joanna H.

Meat portions here are definitely generous. I ordered a Michael's Choice: Roast beef and brisket with Light Rye Bread. I could barely take a bite of it because of the overflowing meat. The brisket I enjoyed, but the roast beef was a bit too dry, maybe because it was more cooked than the deli roast beef I'm used to and love. Given that the sandwich didn't have much sauce, I definitely enjoyed the light rye bed and with the plain brisket. Pickles weren't pickled enough for me. The people here are nice and have a sense of humor, and your stomach will be filled to the brim here. But eh, I wasn't totally impressed. My friend really enjoyed The Rachel. If I come back, I'll give it another shot.
(3)
Brett A.

Busy Saturday but been here before and loved it what happened? Here's what I got all of which I had before but won't again. Chopped liver no flavor , pot salad dry and generic, is the 12$ corn beef sand microwaved if you ask for it hot ? brought sand which back to eat was like a sponge? Pickles and tomatoes not in juice on the case doesn't taste good. Smoked salmon a pale color was ok but not the nice nova I had had in the past. Disappointed spending that kind of money for a small quantity of deli is crazy, could have gone to a nice restaurant for a real dining experience or to the supermarket for this and gotten better and more for less. Place is not like a New York deli it's a weak attempt. no computerized receipts itemizing what you bought, lids don't fit on the little cups with side of mustard. End result = Annoyed
(1)
Christopher L.

Some co-workers and I were trying to decide where to go for lunch. I had mentioned that I read some yelp reviews about Michael's Deli and heard it was pretty good. We were not disappointed, we liked it so much we went back the next day. I had the reuben and the turkey club. Both were huge, forcing me into a post-parandial comas at my desk (they sandwiches were well worth it). A couple FYI's: Cash is king (Bank of America is across the street) Per recommendations, Tuna Melt over the Tuna Sandwich Not much seating and definitely not a dine-in big group place.
(5)
Matt R.

I've been back here several times since my first review and I have to say it just keeps getting better. Their service is just as good as their amazing corned beef. And the sandwiches are so big that you certainly will not leave hungry.
(5)
N W.

Oh my head....The Reuben was amazing! I seriously thought that I would be eating half of this colossal sandwich and then bringing the rest home for dinner. I actually had them give me a take home bag and everything. It was not needed. Amazing.
(5)
Kasey M.

A little on the pricey side, and CASH ONLY, but I loved the sandwich I got (Cancer Sucks Sandwich). The people working were also super nice. I will be back!
(4)
Karina L.

Fast and polite service. I got a bagel with lox. Mmmmmmmmmmm. Delicious lox cream cheese (beautiful, but not overpowering, salmon flavor. And the scallions in the lox was a nice touch.) As a New Yorker, this is the closest to a New York I've come across so far during my stint in Boston.
(5)
Sheleah T.

I love this place! I wasn't sure what I wanted when I got there but the staff there were patient and really helpful. I decided to get a warm pastrami sandwich. It was so good. The meat was sliced thin and it was seasoned perfectly. I moved to Chelsea but I will travel for that sandwich, for sure.
(5)
Ian G.

This is a great deli! I was visiting Boston Children's Hospital with my son and my doctor recommended it and I was not disappointed. I had a great hot lean pastrami sandwich! The owner Steve was there and actually made my sandwich for me. He was super nice guy and took a lot of pride making it for me.
(4)
Deb S.

Mike's Deli is the closest I've eaten to a NYC bagel, in the Boston area. I've tried Mike's twice so far - & will definitely be back. I've had a bagel with scallion cream cheese (good price too) and a bagel with lox, tomato, onions, & capers - mouthwatering & still fresh by 2pm.
(4)
P W.

My husband and I got a Reuben and beef knish. The Reuben was huge and pickles on the side was delicious!! Had to buy a pound... It's like a cucumber and pickle, not overly vinegary, and right amount of crunch! Great service! We'll be back again!!!
(4)
Simon L.

pastrami with mustard on rye. potato knish. rye bread was too thick. it was cold. pastrami was fair. thin sliced, piled lightly and very standard, warmed in the microwave. the sliced rye was two times the size required for the hot meat. potatoe knish was also cold in the middle. delicious pastry puff crust. excellent formation, awful execution. pickles perfect, mustard spicy and grainy. overall, sandwich lacked requisit amount of meat since the rye could have contained twice what it did. the cold bread was a huge disappointment. the bloody roast beef in the cooler looked like what i should have ordered. good spot, mediocre execution.
(3)
John O.

We to Michael's after seeing it a while ago on No Reservations. Small place, so best for take out. The prices weren't bad, but I was expecting more than what I got. We had the fig/balsamic pastrami and the hot tongue sandwiches. The pastrami was good and the portion size was decent, but the tongue seemed small and not enough meat to bread. The flavor was good though, and the meat was tender and juicy. Ordered a pastrami kinish as well. Probably would have been great if served fresh, but if you ask for it heated up it looked microwaved. All in all, if I need a deli fix I would consider this place, but it doesn't hold a candle to NYC Delis.
(3)
Elizabeth P.

I wish I could give them five stars. The fact that they have no credit card machine has stopped me from going here time and time again. It's 2014...
(4)
Ryan M.

Up front, the only reason that this place isn't getting five stars is because I am addicted to using my credit card and rarely carry around cash. However, the day I decided to stop in at Michael's Deli I was luckily carrying some bills and exchanged a reasonable amount of them for a delicious sandwich. From the bread to every delicious layer of ham that was on my sandwich, this place is one of the best. Very friendly guys running the counter and a prime location make this a must-stop if you live in Brookline.
(4)
Ms. S.

This place has ruined other pastrami sandwiches for me. RUINED. Amazing place, amazing food, amazing owner.
(5)
Chirag P.

I always pass this place because it was Cash only. One day I dropped my laundry off in the area, and had some cash left and figured, why not. I am NEVER going to Stop & Shop again for deli meat. The pastrami sandwich I had was just pure awesome, the corned beef I sampled was also very good! I took some black forest ham to go for home, and that was good too. One thing to note, their specialty is deli meat. I would recommend just taking deli meat to go. Although my sandwich was great, making one at home will also work, and save you a bit of money.
(5)
Kelley C.

I LOVE this place and always stop here for a great breakfast sandwich or lunch. great food, there aren't many deli's around the Boston area and this one hits the spot. They also have huge iced coffees!!
(5)
Lisa L.

This place has the best corned beef sandwiches! The service has been nothing but exceptional every time I've come here. Highly recommend.
(5)
Matthew H.

Here's all you need to know about this place: 1) The food is all good and you get what you pay for with portion size. It's probably a little more expensive than it should be. 2) It's cash only and they really, REALLY don't want you to sit around in here. Yes, even if it's empty. Take it to go. 3) The owner isn't "kind of" a prick, he's a full on prick who really loves tearing into people who are trying to pay him for the products he offers. My solution to this is simple... I know what I want, and I order it. I pay in cash. I leave, and I go about my day. The food is good, and I wouldn't want to eat here anyway.
(4)
Susan L.

God I have such an inner fatty. I couldn't put the sandwich down until it was no longer in sight. SO GOOD. I want more of mike's melt-in-your-mouth pastrami. I ordered the balsamic and fig glazed pastrami on light rye with lettuce, tomato, onions, mayo, horseradish. Worth every penny!
(5)
Susan R.

This is for take - out. Very disappointed in the chopped liver (bland) - 'should have been made with browned bits of onion.......tongue: dry and not savory......bagels: very generic. They do not offer hand cut Nova.
(2)
Michael R.

Alas, Michael's was not the storied deli foretold by the Yelp scribes of ancient. Truthfully, I've had a drink or two or four or ten tonight, but my appetite's always sober. Despite the less-than-stellar showing put on by Coolidge Corner's own Michael's Deli, I had a solid experience. I ordered the Michael's Special (Anthony Bourdain told me to order the Roast Beef) and it was a good sandwich; A-OK by Yelp definition. Hot and tender. However, it wasn't spectacular. I've had Roast Beef like that before, and I probably will again down the road. But it was certainly good in it's own right. A couple disclaimers though: the owners have strict NO READING signs (prolly because there's only 4-5 tables in the joint - yikes!) and they're cash only. Also, skip the cole slaw - it's certainly enticing to pair with Pastrami on Rye or perhaps Roast Beef on Pumpernickel, but it's pretty mediocre slaw. But I'm kind of a slaw snob, so maybe you'll have to try it for yourself. As a matter of fact, try the whole place for yourself. If you're in the area, it's worth a visit.
(3)
Carolyn L.

Another Coolidge Corner hot spot so I had to come and check this place out since I never got around to it when I was in college. It's a good thing I went in starving because the sandwich was HUGE! I ordered the Sandy (Howie Carr show) which had turkey, herb cream cheese and apricot chutney. I put it on some toasted rye. My God it was fabulous. I ate half of it and saved the rest for what was sure to be a great late night drunken snack (had a wedding to attend that evening, after all). The sweet and salty flavors paired so well. It was definitely unusual but sometimes those make the best meals! What was also funny was that the owner/cashier person clearly didn't care if he offended anyone. A woman asked for a cup and ice for her not cold enough drink. He gave her a cup, no ice. And they clearly were not about to get along. But I suppose it's his place, he can run it as he sees fit. I'd love to go back and try more sandwiches. I'll just make sure not to order ice!
(4)

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Address : 256 Harvard St
Brookline, MA, 02446
Phone (617) 738-3354
Website https://www.michaelsdelibrookline.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :9:00 am - 5:3

Specialities

Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : Yes
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : No
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes

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Michael’s Deli

256 Harvard St, Brookline, MA, 02446

Michael’s Deli Menu

Custom Sandwiches

Sandwich Choices

Sandwich Extras

Signature Sandwiches

Dirty Sandwiches

Meats By The Pound

Sides

Breakfast Sandwiches

Healthy Meal suggestions for Michael’s Deli

Custom Sandwiches

Sandwich Choices

Sandwich Extras

Signature Sandwiches

Dirty Sandwiches

Meats By The Pound

Sides

Breakfast Sandwiches

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