The Portland-based Ben & Esther's vegan Jewish deli, bakery and bagel shop chain has announced the opening date for its first San Diego location.
Named after the founder's grandparents, Ben & Esther's is a New York City-style Jewish deli and bakery that first opened in Portland, OR, in 2019. Although the concept initially sold animal products, it transitioned last year to be completely vegetarian, then this year to 100% vegan. The eatery offers a menu of New York style bagels with cream "cheese", deli sandwiches, knishes, matzo ball soups, lox made from carrots, whitefish made from hearts of palm, and a variety of pastries & sweets.
The flagship San Diego location of Ben & Esther's will open on New Year's Day within Aztec Village Center near San Diego State University and will be operated in partnership with Marc Bennett, owner of nearby Pappy's Barber Shop. Based on the success of the first area branch, expect other area locations to spring up in other neighborhoods in the coming years.
Ben & Esther's will open on January 1, 2022 at 7am and will thereafter operate from 7am to 3pm daily. The address is 6663 El Cajon Boulevard in San Diego's College Area. For more information, visit benandesthers.com.
