Ben's Kosher Deli & Restaurant

11/13/10

Total Absence of Quality Control

by Paul in Hudson Heights at Citysearch

The New York kosher deli is an endangered species, and with Ben's as one of its last members, the future is bleak. We were three, and nothing was accepable: the chicken soup had only one kreplach (although its flavor made it the best selection of all that we ordered); the pastrami and brisket were remarkably overcooked and dry; the chicken pot pie was dull and flavorless; and the carrot cake had shortening (not cream cheese) based frosting. And the waiter refused to answer basic questions; I had no qualms about leaving only a 15% tip.

We chose Ben's for a reunion with an old high-school friend I hand't seen in 40 years. Since she was travelling in from Jersey City on the PATH train, we looked for a place near Herald Square. I was embarrassed by the choice.

Therefore, if you're in the Herald Square area, try the Korean restaurants on 32nd Street instead. For kosher-style deli, you'll still have to go to Liebman's in Riverdale. The Carle Place Ben's is measurably superior. Ben's needs some quality control to balance out the variance.

05/16/10

SAD!!

by Tramanus at Citysearch

I was excited about eating at this deli after reading about it online but couldn't have been more disappointed. The food was absolutely awful. I ordered a knish as an appetizer it was dry an obviously microwaved. The burger I ordered was not freshly made and had no taste at all. Even the dressings were not ripe. The waiter that waited on us seemed to just be going through the motions. The menu selection was odd and nothing seemed very appetizing. My french fries were not only cold but tasted like rubber. This place must be living off a previous era of quality and success. Chef Ramsay should pay them a visit. The dining area was drab and outdated. I would definitely eat at Katz Deli instead. Horrible!!! This food has to be pre-made b/c it's anything but fresh or tasty. Expect more from a NYC deli especially for the price!

• Pros: Location?
• Cons: Expensive, Food, Service, Atmosphere, Menu

02/26/08

Perfect Storm of Bad Service

by ClevererUsername at Citysearch

Went here last night before a show at the Garden and the service was laughably bad. I'm sure they were all capable staff, but the restaurant completely fell apart. One waitress (snails pace) and waiter (running around), 2 busboys (one competent, the other on parole), a manager (incredibly slow moving) and a hostess that refused to seat people due to her take-out orders job.

As the restaurant was full, a line started to form, drinks were not received, orders were not placed, mustard not received, knish not warm, diners complaining, no clean glasses, no water on table, no russian dressing. The kitchen staff was called out to help the flow, but they were useless. 100 people in the restaurant, all complaining. It was amazing.

Still, pastrimi and corned beef were great, but not worth the price-tag for some meat on two pieces of rye. Would definitely not go back.

• Pros: Decent deli in no-mans-land of west-midtown
• Cons: Service was awful, like we were secretly being punked!

08/08/07

Pretty Good Kosher Delicatessen

by Burlington Tom at Citysearch

Yet another place I've only gone to once. However, I really liked it here. It was the winter, I was sick, and I was looking to get some comfort food in my belly. I came here and got what I was seeking. I was pleased to see that the tables are first served a large platter of delicious pickles and a bowl of creamy cole slaw. Try the half-sour pickles, but not the pickled tomatoes (I haven't obtained that aquired taste yet). I ordered grilled knackwurst and a baked knish. By the end of the meal, I was stuffed. The bargain was great, but I did notice that the signature dishes and sandwiches were pretty pricey. I recommend trying out the cheaper stuff, as I did. It's sure to leave your stomach (and your wallet) full.

• Pros: Spacious, Plenty of complimentary pickles and cole slaw
• Cons: Some stuff on menu is pricey

01/02/04

I've tasted better

by ebby1981 at Citysearch

I've eaten at many kosher restaurants in New York and I'm sorry to say that Ben's is NOT on the top of my list. Their deli sandwiches need some work. Often times the meat is quiet dry and unflavorful. Their matzo balls are huge, but they don't have much flavor. The past few times I've been there, it's been almost empty, which I guess is a plus for those looking for an uncrowded kosher restaurant.

• Pros: Fast Seating, Not crowded
• Cons: Quality of Food