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Ben & Esther's Vegan Delicatessen | Our Story

Four Years, Two Cities, A Lot of Reubens

We started Ben & Esther's with one stubborn idea: a Jewish deli that happens to be 100% vegan, and nobody has to settle for less. No sad salads. No "well, it's good for vegan food." Just real deli food that stands on its own. That means a Reuben that actually drips. Benny's brisket piled high. A lox bagel that tastes like a Sunday morning. And the vegan bacon we're a little too proud of, the kind that makes people text their friends mid-bite. Four years and two cities in, we're still doing it the same way: from scratch, with a little attitude, and enough food to make your bubbe nervous. Pull up a chair. You'll fit right in.
The deli that shouldn't work

The deli that shouldn't work

In 2019, Ben & Esther's opened on El Cajon Boulevard with bagels, knishes, matzo ball soup, and brisket — all 100% plant-based. A vegan Jewish deli sounded like a contradiction, until people tasted it.
Not a substitute — a destination

Not a substitute — a destination

The Classic Reuben, the lox bagel, Benny's Brisket — every dish is built with intention to deliver the texture and soul-deep satisfaction you'd expect. It just happens to be entirely plants.
A Local Favorite in San Diego

A Local Favorite in San Diego

Ben & Esther's has built a loyal following with its creative vegan deli classics, house-made specialties, and welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. Known for serving bold flavors and satisfying comfort food, it's become a go-to destination for both longtime vegans and curious newcomers alike.
Everyone's welcome at this table

Everyone's welcome at this table

Ben & Esther's wasn't built for vegans only — it's for anyone who loves great deli food, including skeptics and the bagel-curious. The GF everything bagel has genuine fans too.
Visit Us Today

Visit Us Today

Whether you're stopping in for a quick breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or your favorite vegan deli classics, you'll find fresh-made food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere waiting for you at Ben & Esther's.