Ben & Esther’s Vegan Jewish Deli announced their Southern California expansion via social media this week. A hot spot for vegan options and Jewish comfort food will make their way North, adding a second San Diego deli in Oceanside.
Founded in Portland by Owner Justin King in 2019, the deli operates two Portland locations. The first San Diego outpost of Ben & Esther’s hit College Area on New Year’s Day 2022, headed up by Marc Bennett of Pappy’s Barber Shop.
Location number 4 for Ben & Esther’s will land in South Oceanside, making the trek for vegan eats much lighter for North County residents. The new deli will replace the now-closed Tambo Cafe on South Coast Highway.
Ben and Esther’s offers a menu that’s 100% vegan, specializing in bagels, deli sandwiches, and matzo ball soup. Menu highlights include options for breakfast or lunch, like the “lox” made of salt-roasted, sliced carrots with tomatoes, capers, and your choice of flavored schmear; their vegan bagels are boiled and baked in-house daily. Try a traditional “Reuben” or indulge in a freshly baked chocolate babka or black and white cookie.
Oceanside’s Ben & Esther’s location is expected to open in Summer 2022. Follow them on Instagram for updates.