Best of Boston

2013 Best Deli

Michael’s Deli

Sure, it’s a bit dingy on the inside. And yes, we find it strange that the specialty sandwiches are named after conservative talk-radio hosts. But corned beef does not compete in a beauty pageant, and pastrami does not have politics. At this Brookline standby, it’s all about the meat. And the meat is very good. And piled very high. And if you care about anything else—well, what on earth are you doing at a deli, anyway?

256 Harvard St., Brookline, 617-738-3354, michaelsdelibrookline.com