My lunch companions and I set out to try a new place this afternoon and realized that we had been passing by Risais Restaurant for years and never noticed it before. Upon entering the small deli we found it to be quite homey and welcoming. Risa herself stood behind the counter and told us to take a seat and she would serve us at a table. (On a sidenote, you gotta love Buffalo for this, if nothing more, we are friendly when it comes to food.)
Risais menu is short, but sweet. Deli sandwiches named after Broadway Stars are the highlight of the selections. I settled on the ‘Ben Verene’ a mixture of Corned Beef and Pastrami with mustard on Rye Bread. Fantastic in itis flavour combinations and certainly one of the most filling sandwiches Iive had in some time, especially at the low price of 7 bucks.
One of my lunch buddies went with the half roast beef sandwich and chicken soup lunch combo. This was just enough for lunchtime and quite a steal at 5 bucks.
The other lunch guest ordered a full size turkey with lettuce, provolone cheese and Italian dressing on white bread. Delightfully light, but also quite filling at the great price of a mere 7 bucks. We also noticed the lovely deserts in the case. A stop by on a later date will have to suffice as the sandwiches were just enough for lunchtime. I have heard told that the cheesecake is out of this world though, so donit miss out!
While enjoying our lunches, my lunch companions commented on the home-style feel of the place. Risais specializes in making the customer feel at once comfortable and taken care of, as if you are related to the owners. One wall is lined with framed pictures and articles relating to the history of Risa’s in general. The restaurant itself has been around for 35 years, run by Risa’s parents, but after a 5 year stint in Las Vegas Risa decided to come home and take over the family business. It may escape your daily trips down the street, but next time you pass by be sure to stop in.
Risais Deli
1298 Hertel Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14216
Phone: 716.447.2990
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8am-4pm
Saturday: 8am-3pm
Sunday: 9am-2pm
Website: http://risasdeli.tripod.com/
To check out their full menu click here for Risa’s WNY Menu Page.