Chicago's Metropolitan Deli

Today, I decided to visit Chicago's Metropolitan Deli in Pleasanton, CA. I've seen this place a couple of times, but just never made it inside. The first thing I noticed when I walked in was a vast menu, written on a "black board". Fantastic Selection, great menu items and lots of variety.

Since there was just too much to choose from, I asked what their two most popular items were. The Chicago Hot Dog and the Italian Beef sandwich, I ordered one of each.

The service was friendly and the food came quickly. Saving what I thought to be the best for last I opted to try the Hot Dog first.



The Chicago Style Hot Dog came dressed with: tomatoes, onions, relish, peppers, pickle, and served on a soft, fresh poppy seed hot dog bun. The first bite was amazing, the Hot Dog itself was crispy and juicy. I'm fortunate I was dining alone, I believe my lunch guest would have got a shot of Hot Dog juice in the eye had they been sitting across from me. I thoroughly enjoyed this Hot Dog, and must admit, it was the best I've had. Better than Costco, even better then the local favorite Caspers (Kaspers). Interesting to note also that this Hot Dog achieved a feat almost impossible to duplicate on your own. There was the perfect ratio of bun to dog. From the first bite to the last this Dog was perfection.


Next, after my Hot Dog appetizer I was ready to tackle the Italian Beef. When you order this sandwich you have the option of, Sweet Peppers, Spicy Peppers, Both or None. I ordered the sweet peppers with the Spicy on the side. I must admit this sandwich looks amazing and perhaps intimidating. The first bite; I chew and I taste, and I chew, and chew, and chew. The roast beef has notes of garlic and other spices, but overall is pretty bland. I dipped the sandwich in the Au Jus (although the bread was already soggy on the bottom from sitting on the plate), and that wasn't any help. I'm not sure what cut of meat they used, it almost tasted from a texture standpoint like they use a ball tip. It reminded me of being a child and having steak for the very first time, you just couldn't seem to chew it enough to swallow it without fear of choking.

So, Chicago's Metropolitan Deli, served up one dish I loved and one I don't need to order again. We are 1-1, I demand a tie-breaker. I will follow up and report back when I have tried another menu item. Perhaps I should have tried their special of the day, called the "Sausalito Turkey". This bad boy is a Turkey Sandwich with Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Cheddar Cheese, BBQ Sauce, served on a Crossiant. Not to mention it was served with Jalapeno Poppers and Ranch. Now, some will say that it was a no-brainer and I should have ordered the special. However, I wanted to get the feeling of the deli and what they offer on a regular basis.


Italian Beef Sandwich $7.25
Chicago Style Hot Dog $5.25
"The Special" $7.95
You can visit Chicago's Metropolitan Deli online at:
http://www.chicagodeli.us/index.htm

Or Visit them in Pleasanton at:
6003 West Las Positas Pleasanton, CA 94588
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