Michael's Deli

This is a quintessential corner deli. Great sandwiches, tasty sides, and witty, friendly banter from behind the counter. We enjoyed the chicken salad with curry sandwich, the reuben, and the Cancer Stinks sandwich, plus a side of potato salad. You can get a half or a whole sandwich. The pickles are salty but not dilly. If we lived near here, this would be a regular go-to.

This is a true NYC-style deli place in the middle of Coolidge Corner! Stumbled upon this place by accident and than saw all the recommendations, including the one from Anthony Bourdain. The service is incredibly friendly and nice, they also serve you pretty quick. It's a typical deli, so do not expect a super fancy atmosphere, but for a quick bite - it's delicious. Enjoyed my pastrami sandwich A LOT, however it was on the pricier side when looking at the deli style offering. Having said that, I'm sure I'll come back to try their other sandos and bagels.

Cash only, but amazing deli! The Reuben brings me back monthly. Michael’s is small and narrow, but everything is fresh and delicious. Michael is quite the character, friendly, always chiding his smiling cooks and digging the boomer music. One day I enjoyed my sandwich to the ancient 70’s progressive rock band, Yes. A live version of their Tales from Topographic Oceans! Truly original, Michael’s doesn’t disappoint. Old BCN news guy Henry Santoro turned me in to Michael’s, so, thanks Henry!!

Great Reuben sandwich. It felt like biting into a cloud. It wasn't too densely packed like other places. Very very fast service. Was in and out in 10 minutes including eating. I'm a big guy and wasn't stuffed afterwards. Take that as you will. Would recommend

You want good pastrami on a role? This is your place. I am surprised I haven't came here before. I got a regular hot pastrami w double meat, mustard and provolone. The meat is high quality and is not full of excessive sodium like most. This is how pastrami should be. I had to run out mid order on a call and even with the sandwiches sitting for a bit it was still outstanding. They even threw in a couple cookies for us. Great spot and exceeded expectations. Worth the price. I should have taken a picture of the meaty goodness but it was gone before realizing I should write a review. The cookies are great as well.

Legit deli in 2022 ........ the man behind the counter has a great sense of humor and totally got my order right. I love steamed hot pastrami and they delivered. It was juicy and not forever chewy! The menu was everything I love and the place has great vibe and not fancy. Ageless and classic

I am visiting Boston this week and staying in the area in Brookline. Today I passed Michael's Deli and it caught my eye. Then I saw that Anthony Bourdain had been there and since I am a huge fan of him and his books and shows, I went in. The gentleman whom I believe is the owner (He must be Steven I believe from reading up on their website), was very welcoming and I really liked his quirkiness and unique energy. I ordered a half size New York corned beef and it was delicious!!! I will be going back to Michael's deli tomorrow and the day after. So simple, yet so tasty and memorable flavours.

Got three sandwiches this time. The "Black and Gold" Pastrami was excellent. The Corn Beef Reuben was spot on. But the slow cooked steak and cheese was underwhelming. When I took the order in hand, I felt the sub was cold. I wasn't sure if it was supposed to be toasted or not. Anyway, the steak and cheese didn't have the typical green pepper, and the taste and look just didn't do it for my friends. One person did comment that having one whole pickle wrapped in each sandwich was definitely on point for him. Oh, another thing. NO credit cards.

Ordered takeout for Father's Day and couldn't have been happier with the meat, service, and pricing. We had corned beef (both reg and lean) and pastrami and everyone was happy. Owner provided great personal service. Cash or Venmo only.

These were some delicious sandwiches. The hot pastrami on rye was good but that Reuben knocked it out of the park. We dined in and the food was prepared quickly even though it was quite a busy Sunday! FYI it was cash or Venmo only.

Free Palestine. Michael's Deli has multiple Israel flags around their establishment, once saying something along the lines of "keep the peace." If you value the lives of Palestinians, take your business elsewhere. Michael's Deli does not have coffee and is also cash or venmo only. This is absolutely ridiculous in 2024 and frankly, sketchy. The man at the register who I assume is Michael had a rude demeanor and I did not feel welcome here. Will not be returning.

One of the best deli's around. Parking is tough yet once you step inside and see all the magic they make: parking issue goes away. Also one of the best Italians ever!!! Not a fan of pastrami or corned beef but it's one of customer favorites. PS can't get enough of the sour pickle that comes with the sandwiches.

Stopped by for lunch and we got the steak and cheese and Reuben sandwich. We wish the steak and cheese had more BBQ sauce but the Reuben was EXCELLENT. So juicy and tasty and the staff is very friendly. A great deli to have around!

I've been wanting to try Michael's for ages - I always walk past their sign right at the large Coolidge Corner intersection, but I've always had errands and other things to do. But today, I stopped by the bank and was able to pop in before heading home and order a sandwich. I had done a fair bit of research on the different items and what was popular, and I ended up ordering the Corned Beef Rachel (Coleslaw, Russian dressing, Swiss cheese, Corned Beef on toasted pumpernickel). The sandwich itself was delicious and very satisfying. The coleslaw gave it a tang of sweetness and the corned beef was perfectly fatty and juicy. I've had a lot of dry sandwiches, but this one was not dry at all. The meat had a great meaty texture, the coleslaw was crunchy, and the melted swiss cheese added a nice bit of extra fat to each bite. The only thing that was missing was a little more acidity, but the sandwich came with a pickle! HOWEVER, I thought the pickle was a bit on the salty side. It helped balance out some of the fattiness of the sandwich, but it ended up being a bit too salty. Still, the sandwich was great so they get a 4/5 stars. I'd definitely want to stop by another time to try their knishes, kugel, or another sandwich (the "Michael's Choice" sounds good: Roast Beef and Beef Brisket with horseradish sauce on your choice of toasted bread). It was overall a little pricey for a sandwich, but these are above average sandwiches.

TL:DR - If this was a TV show, it's the first season of "The Bear" but a Jewish deli rather than Italian Beef joint. Just a classic, justifiably awesome place. Better than Zaftig's or Mamelahs because it has the soul they are both missing. Michael's Deli has it all going for it - homey, quirky, friendly with a side of good-natured snark (NOT of the rude Durgin Park variety.) Slightly intimidated by the menu I stuck to the tried and true and got a Ruben which was delicious with tons of well cooked meat, a big super crunchy half-sour pickle and added a small side of potato salad doe maybe buck-fifty. Grabbed one of the several 4-tops inside and enjoyed the classic rock and banter of the kitchen staff while I waited for and ate my food.

Stopped in for some good deli and found it - at least part of it. Their corned beef Rachel sandwich was excellent - lean beef, tasty coleslaw. Totally delicious. The bagel (2 choices) with lox spread, however, was a miss. Way too much onion and almost no lox. Harsh taste - threw it out.

Did someone say Anthony Bourdain! Yes the man himself was here for a reason. The place is very small, but the service is very friendly and somewhat quick. This is not my usual fare so I was pleasantly surprised on how tasty and delicious my Rueben was. There is limited seating indoors and 2 small tables outside in front. No parking, so I suggest you park at Trader Joe's, pick up some groceries and then head across the street for your yummy sandwich. Alert: No credit cards accepted. Cheers!

oh, yum. the best. i need my michael's deli. the only true jewish deli in town. can i eat here every day?

I'm 99% sure the bruins won game 7 on Saturday because I went here for lunch. Great people and great food. The sandy was a hit! Both of us loved it.

I love this deli. It's the only game in town. Have a half sour tomato. Ambrosia! The sandwiches, packed full of your choice of meat, are a bargain, imo.

There's not much that I can add to the previous reviews other than to say that Michael's consistently makes the best hot pastrami on rye (with Swiss and mustard) that I have ever had. And the pickle is excellent too.

I was walking around Brookline and decided to stop in to check out the menu. Everything looked absolutely delicious, but since I was on my way to a festival, I just wanted to grab something small to try. I ended up going with the pastrami knish, which was just what I needed. The pastrami had the perfect flavor and texture, and reminded me of what I'd expect at a New York style deli. The knish was reheated, so it was a bit greasy, but nothing a quick dab of a napkin couldn't fix. I most definitely want to come back to try some of their other offerings. They have holiday menus as well, perfect for the upcoming Jewish high holidays. They only do counter service, so it's a lot of grab and go, but there are some tables available as well. Just note that they're cash only, but they do take Venmo as well!

I had an afternoon appointment in Brookline and decided I wanted a sandwich on a hot *** summer day and decided to pop into Michael's Deli and I'm glad I did. If you're wondering but nobody asked then h-ll yeah I do read the newspaper clippings restaurants and shops have plastered out in the front. I ordered a reuben sandwich (should've asked for it on a rye or sub roll so I'm having small ragrets). You can get lost from their potato chips and soda options (ended up grabbing a Diet Dr. Brown's cream soda by accident - OOPS!) If you're freaking the f-ck out about cash or Venmo only then this probably isn't your joint and if you can't wait 5 mins for one of the best reuben sandwiches you can get around Bahhstann then you should be ashamed of yourselves. I will be returning.

Literally the best authentic Jewish deli around hands down, no questions asked, need I say more. *CASH ONLY* I always go to old faithful, the Reuben and it is insane and melts in my mouth. I love the latkes and my husband is a fan of the potato salad. They also have homemade pickles they include with the sandwiches. In addition to getting sandwiches they do sell their meats, various sides, and do catering. Again any traditional Jewish dish, they have it. There is some seating inside but you can pop in and order the sandwiches or sides or even call ahead, which is awesome.

been here twice, first time was one of the most delicious reubens i ever had. The pickles here are also great, they are traditional only brine pickles not vinegar pickles. (some people may not enjoy this though) Today, The reuben i got was so subpar. The corned beef is tough, chewy, the fat is not rendered out well enough. I think it just wasn't cooked long enough or as long as usual. Or perhaps they didn't cut it thin enough? I'm not sure but it is not great. Definitely not like the first sandwich i got, which was really tasty. I'm unfortunately leaving a three star because of inconsistency. This place is great and deserves its high rating, I just want to let the owner know about my experience today so they can improve on it!

I moved to SF and still have dreams of the Thorty's Black and Gold sandwich. I sincerely am considering moving back to Boston exclusively for this sandwich. Michael's Deli is a down to earth establishment that deserves all the best, I love this place and would consider being a brand ambassador if that was at all possible. Please go here immediately.

How have I not reviewed this place? This is the best deli in all of Boston/ Boston metro area. The. Best. Every time I eat from this place, I'm just so happy full. There's no other deli that makes me as happy full as this place. And they have the best pickles. My regular sandwich is a messy mango chicken sandwich on a sub roll. My husband always gets the Thanksgiving feast. I very much appreciate that they sell bai coconut water. That's my favorite coconut water and sometimes I just prefer that over cream soda- also very happy they sell cream soda, too. My husband prefers the root beer. Really great service. It's usually faster to call in and pick up but if you don't mind hanging out, you really don't wait that long. Everyone is very nice. I've never done catering though my husband was at an event catered by Mike's and reported everyone was happy. How can you eat a sandwich from here and not be happy though? I am always telling people to come here so I hope they listen to me! Cash or Venmo only. Worth it!!!!!

Been going to Michael's for years now. The worst things that's ever happened is MAYBE the sandwich is not totally hot or was a little haphazardly assembled If they're really busy, but it's always amazing regardless. The deli items are worth trying including the kugel (sp?), knishes, stuffed cabbage, pickles etc. BRING CASH. (Note: the regular size sandwich is big, get a half and maybe a knish or something if you're not super hungry).

First stop when home in Boston. Quality and consistency. My go to is tongue on a bulky. Pastrami and corned beef also top notch.

Deeply unsatisfying sandwich. Ordered the Michael's Choice and only got dry roast beef with no brisket. Sad.

Love the jeffe. A flavor bomb, juicy and flavorful. One of the most satisfying deli sandwiches we've had in a while. A new go-to, end of story.

Amazing sandwiches owner is really great character very warm. Felt like I've been a regular for years and only been twice. I definitely need to go more. A truly unique experience. Best sandwiches in the area.

Delicious pastrami sandwiches. What more could you possibly need in this world. Ask yourself this question. Then go to Michael's and get a sandwich.

I've wanted to stop in at Michael's many times as my office is in Allston, but never get lucky with parking. Today I stopped in at Trader Joe's across the street and was already parked there so I thought, today is the day (even though I've already had lunch). I ordered two knishes, beef and pastrami. Honestly, the first time I've ever had one and I would give this place 10 stars if I could. They were extremely satisfying & filling, and most of all, they were delicious. Ever since I saw the episode with Anthony Bourdain & Howie Carr eating here, it's been on my list. I'm hoping my wife gives me another list from Trader Joe's soon, as I'll dive right in to one of their famous sandwiches. Until then..... I'll be dreaming of you Michael's Deli!

We had the BLT, Thorty Black and Gold and the J's Sexy Grilled Cheese. The half BLT, bacon was fresh and cooked perfect according to my wife. My daughter had the grilled cheese but she let me have a bite. Great amount of cheese with a new sweet taste from the jelly. I'll get that next time. The Thorty was great. The pastrami was fresh and not dry with a perfect amount of spice to it. The sauce added to the taste of the sandwich. The pickle was different. I'm use to the classic speared dill pickles from a bottle so I will not comment on the pickle other than it was fresh just like everything else. Great sandwiches and I will comeback in the future.

I was pretty pumped to try this spot bc of the pastrami. The place itself is a cool spot inside w high ceilings and a cozy interior, the staff was great, and the pastrami was delicious. I just wish I wasn't let down by the size of the thorty black and gold. Maybe other sandwiches on the menu are bigger, but I feel like $15 should get me 2 of those if they're going to be that small. Ik this isn't NYC but still my hopes were a little higher

The Rueben was so delicious and I would definitely order it again. The Cancer Stinks sandwich was not great, too much turkey and a bit dry. Not enough of everything else. The service was good and everyone was so nice. I will probably come try again.

Stopped in particularly for hot pastrami sandwich. Preferred on seeded rye, with mustard and Swiss cheese. Excellent pastrami nice and lean. Seeded rye nice and fresh, even 2 fresh pickles on side. I would liked a little potato salad as part of order on side, but didn't ask when ordering. Meat was steamed in steamer and cheese nice and melted. Was 12 bucks and change, and under today's inflation ... was fairly priced. Owner busy entering orders at front can inter even said thank you as I was leaving... he knows his business and how to treat customers too...The kitchen prep area looks like could use some improvements. The signs on deli case was blocking pre prep foods... the menu had a lot of sandwich options and specials... the meatloaf or pot roast sandwich look to be a different sandwich to try. ... I'll be back again. All meats are made by them in house.

Definitely among the best if you're jonesing for a pastrami or reuben sandwich. I can't speak to the other deli items but during my wait today, that's what everyone ordered. The actual deli selection appears to be significantly pared down, or maybe it's being held out back somewhere? It's uncomfortable getting booted outside in the cold with a warm sandwich because there's no place to sit, but I realize that is a winter problem. Great sandwich!

Had their Grilled Cheese sandwich. It was amazing. Even my very picky Maltese ate a portion.

Had a turkey on rye. Bread was very fresh! Husband got the hot corn beef he was impressed!

I love the small town feel (distinctive food and excellent customer service) of Michael's. The quality of the food was amazing and the service was fun. I spoke to who I think was the owner and we exchanged some laughs while we discussed the food options and were listening to and singing along with Elvis Presley playing on the radio...overall a great place to stop in for a few delicious knishes. I would highly recommend Michael's.

I had heard about this place from the doctors. They support Dana Farber and I love that. It's a charming little place and the people there were incredibly friendly. They know how to handle a busy afternoon with ease. I ordered a reuben because they boast that they have the best cornedbeef in the city and they have the awards to prove it. My daughter ordered the Thorty Black & Gold and I had to try The Half Sandwich of balsamic pastrami on rye. I had mixed feelings about the Reuben . They weren't kidding about the cornbeef it was excellent but they put a little too much Russian dressing and the sandwich was greasy so it became very soggy. Next time I think I'm going to get corned beef on Rye with mustard on the side. Both my daughter and I loved her Pastrami.She would have liked it to be less fatty but that is my favorite part. As for the balsamic pastrami I'm glad I tried it but I didn't care for it . Sweet pastrami is just not my thing.On the whole it was an awesome experience and I want to go back and try more things. They have a whole case full of deli goodness that will be tested

I only had the pleasure of eating here once so far. However, that hasn't stopped me from dreaming about that sandwich every night. It was so good I only remember taking the first bite, after that I must have been in some kind of dream trance because the next thing I remember I was licking the paper off my plastic basket. I can not wait to get back there. A++++++++++++

Just stopped in for the first time in a couple of years. I ordered a half pastrami sandwich which was so tiny. A few pieces of pastrami and small enough to fit in the palm of your hand! The menu price was $6.29 but the cashier charged me close to $8. I questioned him and he said they were adding .50 and tax, but that only comes out to $7. He overcharged me. It wasn't even hot. Terribly disappointing. It was much better with the old owner. Such a ripoff. I won't be going back.

Yummy Jewish food! Nice Staff. I got a stuffed cabbage and it was good. Friendly place with spaces to sit and eat

Michael's corned beef on a sub was absolutely delicious and fresh- and packed with flavor I could taste even when I was sick with covid! I enjoyed the sandwich when my taste and smell was only functioning at 50%, so I'm excited to go back and experience it fully when I'm operating at 100%. The pickle was not my thing though. I'm normally a pickle girl but their pickle was kind of...soft? I opted for the coleslaw and sub, which I thought paired really well with the corned beef. It was really filling and made for two great meals. Side note- they only take cash or venmo!

The owner, Steven, is the best kind of business owner. He's a no-f*cks given, genuine guy that lets his food speak for itself. Everything they have has passion and quality, making this the best deli in Boston.

Was walking by, saw some intriguing articles on the outside window, realized it was a Jewish deli, & then had to get something. Only a limited number of people are allowed inside at a time, distanced. I paid for my takeout order by Venmo. Got a potato knish and a kasha knish to heat up at home. When I did... WOW, so flaky and delicious. Had with spicy mustard. Would definitely come back to try more items from the menu!

Delicious Thorty Black and Gold sandwich and pastrami hot knish. Definitely will come back.

Michael's Deli is an authentic delicatessen that provides high quality sandwiches. I personally love the corned beef which is stacked high and delicious. You can't go wrong with this place. Just remember to bring cash!

Always good sandwiches, generous & tasty. I've enjoyed Jacob's Special & Michael's Special. Potato salad is yummy too. Limited seating.

Pastrami on Rye, perfect half-sour pickle, Dr Brown's sodas, what could go wrong? Unfortunately, lots., but not here! Every bite was delightful and the pastrami was tender. Thank you, Michael's Deli!

Delicious lunch and excellent service! Our 13 year old said it was the best roast beef sandwich he ever had. He picked Michaels Choice, our daughter had the Goat, and I had the balsamic fig pastrami in rye. Amazing all around!

food was good. Venmo was interesting. pickle was atrocious. Day was conquered

Something about the sun shining and early days of spring that puts me in the mood for a delicious deli sandwich. Found this hole in the wall joint in Coolidge corner and they did not disappoint! I got an Italian sub with the works and hots. Bread was nice and crunchy, which didn't get soggy by the time I got around to eating my sandwich over an hour later. Their specialty is corned beef and Pastrami which as a salty meat lover is right down my alley. Will definitely be back to try more! Heads up the place is cash only which I didn't know prior to going, but luckily there is an atm across the street.

I didn't ask his name but the friendly man who makes you feel at home at the counter who is very nice is likely the Man in charge. I can't imagine an employee going that far above and beyond. He'll make any stranger feel at home and that is a trait of a locally owned business that id be glad to give my money to. I Tried the turkey club and it came super fast and tasted excellent. I will say the portion was fair , not great. And the price was maybe a little high. Excited to go back and try some different items next time .

You know a sandwich (and soup) is really good when you can't wait to get home and eat lunch, so you finish it in the car and love every bite and don't care that you got mustard on your jeans (again). Love the corn beef on marble rye and chicken soup. Reminds me of some great delis in the Bronx, Leibman's ...