The name Brooklyn Deli & Grill says it all, offering up East Coast favorites that will leave you wishing for seconds. Serving up specialties like Pastrami on Rye, Reubens, Knishes, Smoked Salmon, Philly Cheese steaks, Rice Pudding and Cannolis, owner Steven Podel opened this Longmont gem 12 years ago, evolving it into the best mix of New York favorite's people love.

Originally from Brooklyn, Podel is a food guy at heart who started in the restaurant business in Manhattan before making his way to Boulder in 1980. Dabbling his craft in many local restaurants, he set out on his own in 1998 to open the Bleu Sun Market and Caters on Coffman Street and Ninth Avenue in Longmont.

As hungry customers found them, Podel's vision for his restaurant grew, combining the best of everything from New York into one. "Being from Brooklyn, there were so many things I missed," he says. "We pride ourselves in serving authentic New York cuisine."

By far the best seller is the N.Y. Rueben. And it's not hard to see why, with Pastrami, Corned Beef or Turkey grilled between fresh Rye bread from New York, topped with Sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, deli mustard or 1000 Island dressing.

If you've ever been to New York, then you have probably tried a Sabrett jumbo hot dog. Brooklyn Deli & Grill has them - completely loaded with the works. And don't forget a New York bagel in a variety of flavors topped with cream cheese, Brooklyn Whitefish salad or smoked salmon.

As people's appetites grew for these New York favorites, Podel realized his business needed place to expand. After gutting the entire kitchen and remodeling the inside of a former coffee shop, Brooklyn Deli & Grill opened in its new location at 15th Avenue and Main Street this past spring.

The new higher-profile restaurant also opened the door for a new start to his business by offering dinner. With Podel's background as a chef, he creates tasty favorites people return for often. The barbecue ribs earn big points with tender meat braised in cider vinegar and brown sugar and then baked in a house special Kansas City-style barbecue sauce.

Nightly specials also give people unique selections to sink their teeth into, including Jerk Chicken, Coconut Fried Shrimp, Grilled Salmon and Lamb Ribs.

The Brooklyn Deli & Grill also offers made-to-order breakfasts, including fresh grilled eggs on a New York Kaiser roll or bagel.

"It's great seeing such happy people come through the doors. And repeat customers get so excited by the new menu items," he says.

Check it Out

Try Brooklyn Deli & Grill's favorites by stopping by 1515 Main St. Suite 3 in Longmont, or visit online at www.thebrooklyndeli.com.