DINING OUT

Annie Bettelli

BURBANK -- I’m always curious when a restaurant touts itself as having

“the best” of a specific dish. The green and white awning outside of

Ben’s Delicatessen’s in Burbank claims to serve the “world’s finest

corned beef,” and being one that appreciates this tastiest of deli meats

either between rye bread or with boiled cabbage, I had find out if this

was true.

While the word finest is subjective at best, Ben’s corned beef is very

lean and not greasy whatsoever, like many corned beef sandwiches I’ve

tried. And, unlike some trendier Valley delicatessens that serve corned

beef sandwiches alone for close to $10, Ben’s serves a generous-sized

sandwich on crusty, seeded Jewish rye with a choice among four side

orders for just $5.95. Put it all together and I will concede that this

is indeed a fine meal and a fine deal.

The hot beef brisket sandwich was not as noteworthy. The taste fell

flat needing the help of some garlic or onion to give it some character.

Sandwiches are the core of Ben’s menu and the beef selections,

including hot dogs and knockwurst, are served Kosher-style. Ben’s also

serves burgers, salads and a very respectable matzo ball soup.

In the tradition of a good dive, the restaurant itself is nothing

fancy and somewhat cramped, but if you like a good corned beef sandwich,

Ben’s is the place to go.

ANNIE BETTELLI welcomes requests. Send correspondence in care of the

News-Press/Leader to 111 W. Wilson Ave., Suite 200, Glendale 91203 or

contact her directly via e-mail at BERIES@aol.com. Her column appears

each Wednesday.

IF YOU GO

WHERE: Ben’s Delicatessen, 217 N. 3rd St. in Burbank.

PHONE: 846-6227.

HOURS: Open seven days. Monday through Saturday 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.;

Sunday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

PRICES: Deli sandwiches $5.55 to $6.95; burgers $3.95 to $4.95.