Benji’s is a local institution, known for its New York-style deli sandwiches and relaxed atmosphere. A Milwaukee staple, Benji’s has been serving up piled-high sandwiches and homemade soups for decades, earning a loyal following.
But what exactly is on the Benji menu? And what makes it so special?
This article takes a deep dive into the Benji’s menu, exploring everything from their famous matzo ball soup and overstuffed sandwiches to their sweet treats. We’ll break it down section by section, covering appetizers, entrees, and desserts, so you know exactly what to order on your next visit.
Appetizers and Starters
Benji’s offers a tempting array of appetizers to kick off your meal, from familiar favorites to some unique creations you won’t find anywhere else. You can expect to spend somewhere between \$8 and \$15 on a starter.
One popular choice is the Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice. Imagine perfectly seasoned sushi-grade tuna, finely diced and mixed with a zesty mayo, all piled high on crispy, bite-sized pads of perfectly seasoned rice. The contrast of textures and the kick of spice make it an instant crowd-pleaser.
Other notable appetizers include:
- The Fried Pickles: These aren’t your average fried pickles! They’re dill pickle spears lightly battered and fried to a golden crisp, served with a creamy dill dipping sauce.
- The Buffalo Chicken Dip: A creamy, cheesy dip loaded with shredded chicken and buffalo sauce, served with tortilla chips for scooping.
- The Mini Corn Dogs: Classic mini corn dogs served with a side of mustard, perfect for sharing (or not!).
Main Courses: A Deep Dive
At Benji’s, the main courses are where the kitchen really shines. You’ll find a range of options, generally falling into these categories:
- Seafood
- Pasta
- Meat (beef, pork, and poultry)
- Vegetarian
Featured Main Course Dishes
If you’re only ordering one dish at Benji’s (though you should try an appetizer or two!), the braised short ribs are a must. These aren’t your grandma’s pot roast! The beef is slow-cooked for hours in a rich red wine reduction with aromatic vegetables and herbs until it’s fall-apart tender. It’s served over a creamy polenta and topped with a sprinkle of gremolata for a bright, citrusy finish. The combination of the savory, deeply flavored beef with the smooth polenta and zesty gremolata is truly special.
Other popular main courses include:
- Pan-Seared Salmon: Served with roasted asparagus and a lemon-dill sauce.
- Linguine with Clams: Classic pasta dish with fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and a touch of red pepper flakes.
- Grilled Pork Chop: A thick-cut pork chop served with sweet potato mash and apple chutney.
Vegetarian and Dietary Options
Benji’s is committed to offering delicious options for everyone, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. The menu clearly marks items that meet these dietary needs, and the staff is always happy to answer questions or make recommendations.
Vegetarian and vegan options include:
- Roasted Vegetable Risotto: Creamy risotto with seasonal roasted vegetables.
- Grilled Portobello Mushroom Sandwich: Served on a gluten-free bun with lettuce, tomato, and a vegan aioli.
If you have any specific dietary restrictions or allergies, please let your server know. The kitchen is happy to accommodate special requests whenever possible.
Benji’s Sides and Extras
Benji’s doesn’t skimp on the sides. You’ll find all the classics, done right, plus some unique options you won’t see anywhere else. Think beyond basic fries and coleslaw – Benji’s offers creative flavor combinations and textures that really elevate the meal.
A couple of standouts include the spicy kimchi slaw, which offers a tangy kick that cuts through the richness of some of the heartier sandwiches, and the crispy Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze – a sweet and savory counterpoint that’s surprisingly addictive. The loaded sweet potato fries, topped with pulled pork and a drizzle of Benji’s signature BBQ sauce, are a meal in themselves!
Don’t forget to check out the extra sauces and toppings to customize your order. From creamy garlic aioli to fiery habanero relish, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Sweet Treats and Decadent Desserts
If you’ve got room for something sweet, Benji’s is ready to tempt you with a dessert menu full of cakes, pies, ice cream, and pastries, all priced between $8 and $12. The dessert style is upscale comfort food, with familiar flavors prepared with a bit of flair.
Featured Desserts
The star of the show is the Chocolate Lava Cake, a rich, dark chocolate cake with a molten chocolate center, served warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce. It’s decadent, rich, and guaranteed to satisfy your chocolate cravings.
Other notables include the Key Lime Pie, a tangy and refreshing classic with a graham cracker crust and a dollop of whipped cream; the Apple Crumble, a warm and comforting dessert with a crispy oat topping; and the New York Cheesecake, a creamy and classic dessert with a graham cracker crust and a hint of lemon.
Drinks and Beverages
Don’t forget to check out the drinks menu, which includes a variety of sodas, juices, and specialty drinks to complement your meal.
Price Point and Value
Benji’s leans toward a mid-range price point. It’s not the cheapest option around, but it’s also far from high-end. You’re paying a bit more than fast food, but less than a fancy sit-down restaurant.
As for value, Benji’s generally delivers. Portion sizes are solid – you won’t leave hungry. The quality of ingredients seems good, too. The owners clearly prioritize using fresh ingredients.
Compared to similar restaurants in the area, Benji’s is pretty competitive. You’ll find comparable prices and portion sizes at other local spots, but Benji’s quality and service help it stand out.
In Conclusion
Benji’s menu is a delightful mix of classic deli favorites and creative, modern dishes. From the overstuffed sandwiches piled high with premium meats to the lighter, flavorful salads and soups, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Overall, the dining experience at Benji’s is top-notch. The quality of the ingredients shines through in every bite, and the friendly service makes you feel right at home. I would absolutely recommend Benji’s to anyone looking for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Don’t just take my word for it, though! Head over to Benji’s website at [insert website address here, if available] or call them at [insert phone number here, if available] to explore the full menu and plan your visit. You won’t be disappointed!