Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli: A College Point Tradition

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Introduce

For over two decades, Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli has been a cornerstone of the College Point community in Queens, offering a taste of authentic Italian culinary excellence right in the neighborhood. This is more than just a place to grab a sandwich; it’s an institution built on a passion for quality ingredients and traditional recipes. The deli's reputation for providing an array of delicious, hearty Italian and American sandwiches, alongside hot specials and fresh salads, is well-earned. The story of Benateri's began with its owner, Ben, who, as a young teenager working in a deli in Astoria, was inspired by the joy food brought to people. In 2002, with the support of his family and friends, he opened Benateri's, and the tradition of serving incredible food to a loyal clientele has continued ever since.

The menu at Benateri's is a testament to its commitment to variety and quality. They specialize in a vast selection of sandwiches, categorized into "Italian Signature Creations," "American Signature Creations," and "Signature Chicken Creations." These are not your average sandwiches; they are meticulously crafted heroes and subs bursting with flavor. The deli is particularly known for using high-quality Boar’s Head products, ensuring a top-tier taste in every bite. Whether you're craving a classic Italian combination with sweet soppressata and prosciutto or a modern twist like the "Original Philly Cheese Steak Hero," there's a hero for every palate. The popularity of their food is so great that according to one review, their "Godfather" hero can literally "stop traffic," as a car once pulled over just to ask where they got the sandwich.

Beyond the impressive sandwich selection, Benateri's also functions as a full-service breakfast spot, a caterer, a salad shop, and a destination for classic Italian sides. Their "Signature Salad Creations" are fresh, generously sized, and made with the same attention to detail as their sandwiches. The catering services are particularly popular for local businesses and events, providing large trays of delicious pastas, chicken dishes, and platters of cold cuts and appetizers. The deli's business model is a blend of traditional in-store service and modern convenience, with a significant portion of their business coming from large outgoing orders for worksites in College Point, making them a key player in the area's food scene.

Customer reviews consistently praise not only the food but also the outstanding service. Patrons appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable staff who are always ready to offer recommendations or engage in a quick chat. One customer noted the "excellent service every time," highlighting that the staff "always know what they are talking about" and have opinions on your choices, which adds to the personalized, neighborhood feel. Another review raved about the "excellent" food and the "very helpful and friendly" staff. This dedication to customer satisfaction is a hallmark of the Benateri's experience, creating a warm and welcoming environment that keeps people returning day after day.

The commitment to authenticity and flavor is evident in every aspect of their offerings, from the perfectly melted mozzarella to their famous vodka sauce, which a customer described as "amazing, outstanding, fantastic." The quality of their bread, which is always fresh and hot, is also a frequently mentioned highlight. For New Yorkers who appreciate a deli that combines a deep respect for Italian culinary tradition with a fresh, modern approach to service and menu variety, Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli is an essential destination. It’s a place where every meal feels like it was made with care and passion, living up to its reputation as a true local favorite.

Location and Accessibility

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli is situated in the heart of College Point, Queens, at 129-21 14th Ave, College Point, NY 11356, USA. The location is easily accessible with free street parking available, making it convenient for both quick visits and longer stops. Its presence in this vibrant Queens neighborhood solidifies it as a go-to spot for locals.

Services Offered

Benateri's provides a comprehensive range of services to meet the needs of its diverse clientele.

Delivery: Enjoy their delicious food from the comfort of your home or office.
In-store pickup: Order ahead online or by phone and pick up your meal at your convenience.
Takeout: Perfect for those on the go, allowing for a quick and satisfying meal.
Quick visit: The deli is designed for efficient service, ideal for a fast stop during a busy day.
Catering: A key part of their business, Benateri's offers catering for all occasions, providing trays of food for events, parties, and business meetings.

Features / Highlights

What makes Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli a standout choice in Queens is its unique blend of traditional and modern offerings.

Authentic Italian Dishes: The menu features a wide array of authentic Italian dishes, from their famous "Godfather" hero to a variety of homemade salads and sides.
High-Quality Ingredients: They are committed to using premium products, including Boar’s Head brand meats and cheeses, ensuring top-notch quality.
Versatile Menu: Beyond just a deli, it serves as a breakfast restaurant, salad shop, and caterer, providing a one-stop-shop for various culinary needs.
Famous Vodka Sauce: Customers consistently rave about their vodka sauce, calling it "amazing" and a must-try.
Exceptional Customer Service: The staff is known for being friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, creating a welcoming and personalized experience for every customer.
Catering Expertise: With over two decades in the business, their catering services are a trusted choice for large orders and events in the New York area.

Contact Information

For orders or inquiries, you can reach Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli at the following:

Address: 129-21 14th Ave, College Point, NY 11356, USA

Phone: (718) 445-9240

What is worth choosing

Choosing Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli is about more than just satisfying a craving; it's about experiencing a New York tradition. The deli has a rich history rooted in a passion for food, and that dedication is palpable in every hero, platter, and salad they serve. For first-timers, a great place to start is with one of their "Italian Signature Creations," like the legendary "Godfather" hero. This sandwich is a perfect example of what the deli does best: combining fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a memorable meal that's both hearty and flavorful. The "Original Philly Cheese Steak Hero" is another customer favorite, showcasing their expertise in both Italian and American deli classics.

The deli's wide-ranging menu means you can always find something to suit your mood. If you're looking for something lighter, the "Signature Salad Creations" are a fantastic option, with choices like the "Large Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad" or the "BIG Greek Salad." For those who are planning a gathering or simply want to stock up, the catering services are an incredible value, offering everything from assorted hero platters to an Antipasto Deluxe Platter. The fact that they've been a staple in New York for over two decades speaks volumes about their consistency and quality. With their friendly staff, wide selection of delicious food, and commitment to using the best ingredients, Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli is a true gem in College Point and a place that every New Yorker should experience. It is a reliable choice for a quick visit, a catered event, or simply a fantastic meal.

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Menu

Italian Signature Creations
San Danielle
Prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, arugula, tomatoes, pesto, balsamic glaze and roasted red peppers.
Supremo
Sweet sopressata, pepperoni, prosciutto, provolone cheese, roasted peppers lettuce, tomatoes and garlic dressing.
Bella's Delight
Fried eggplant with arugula, fresh mozzarella and roasted peppers and pesto.
Nonna's Best
Fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, pesto sauce, marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.
The Godmother
Fried eggplant with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, oil and vinegar and pesto sauce.
The Mother In-Law
Fried eggplant, Asiago cheese, sauteed spinach in garlic and oil and roasted red peppers on toasted bread.
New York's Finest
Fried eggplant, broccoli rabe, hot sopressata, fresh mozzarella and roasted peppers.
The Godfather
Genoa salami, pepperoni, mortadella, sopressata, cappicola, prosciutto, ham cappicola, fresh mozzarella, lettuce, tomato, roasted peppers, oil and vinegar.
Mamma Mia
Grilled eggplant, marinated mushrooms, artichoke, roasted red peppers, fresh mozzarella and pesto sauce. Vegetarian.
Fat Bastard
Chicken cutlet with meatballs, Italian sausage, tomato sauce and hot crushed peppers topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Meatball Parmesan
Homemade meatballs, with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Sausage And Peppers
Italian sweet sausage with peppers and onions.
Whitestone's Favorite
Sweet sopressata, fresh mozzarella, lettuce, tomato and roasted red peppers.
I-Roc Z
Fresh mozzarella, slices of ripe tomatoes, sundried tomatoes, pesto, oil and vinegar.
Dante's Inferno
Hot sopressata, pepperoni, prosciutto, pepper jack cheese, hot peppers, lettuce, tomatoes and garlic dressing. Spicy.
The Highway Patrol
Homemade roast beef, broccoli rabe, fresh mozzarella and roasted sweet peppers.
The Italian Veggie
Grilled eggplant, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, broccoli rabe and mozzarella cheese. Vegetarian.
Eggplant Parmesan
Fried eggplant, tomato sauce, grated cheese and melted mozzarella cheese. Vegetarian.
The Casino
Salami, ham, pepperoni, provolone cheese, roasted sweet peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, red wine vinaigrette & oregano
La Bella Vita
Prosciutto, sweet cappicola, fresh mozzarella cheese, arugala, sun dried tomatoes, pesto & olive oil

American Signature Creations
Angelique
Ovengold turkey, Deluxe ham, fresh mozzarella cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo.
Cubano
Roast pork, Deluxe ham, Swiss cheese, pickles topped with spicy mustard.
Santa Fe Special
Ovengold turkey, swiss, cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions & Italian dressing
Smokey The Bear
Pitcraft Slow smoked turkey, Smokemaster Black Forest ham, mozzarella cheese, lettuce, tomato and honey mustard.
Beni's Favorite
Cracked Pepper Mill turkey, melted Swiss cheese, avocado, tomato and red wine vinaigrette dressing.
Ocean Eleven
Homemade tuna salad topped with Swiss or American cheese, lettuce and tomato.
American Combo
Boars head Oven gold turkey, roasted beef, turkey, American cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo.
Just Bacon A Livin'
Pitcraft Slow Smoked turkey, smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions and mayo.
New York's Bravest
Homemade roast beef, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions and mayo.
Tweetys Favorite
Homemade chicken salad mixed all in together,sun dried tomatoes, onions, chopped carrots, roasted peppers, topped with bacon, lettuce & tomatos
Tuna Classic
Homemade tuna with lettuce and tomato.
Turkey Club
Ovengold Turkey with crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayo.
Original Philly Cheese Steak Hero $18.95
Thinly sliced savory roast beef with sauteed onions, a touch of gravy and American cheese.
Pastrami King HERO $18.95
Hot pastrami, melted Jalapeno Pepper jack, sauteed onions, hot cherry peppers cajun mayo
Texas Best
Hot roast beef with melted cheddar cheese, bacon, sauteed onions and brown gravy.
Watery Mouth
Hot roast beef with BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, mozzarella cheese on a toasted garlic bread.
Joey's Favorite
Hot roast beef with Jalapeno Pepper Jack, red onions, arugula, tomatoes and a drizzle of horseradish sauce.
Philly Cheese Steak Hero
Grilled chicken with onions, gravy & melted american cheese on a toasted hero

Signature Chicken Creations
Grilled Chicken Benateri's Way
Choice of chicken, roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella, homemade pesto, balsamic vinegar dressing.
Grilled Chicken Caesars Way
Grilled chicken topped with romaine lettuce, tomatoes and Caesar Parmesan dressing.
Chicken And Grilled Eggplant
Choice of chicken and marinated grilled balsamic eggplant with roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella, homemade pesto and balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
Grilled Chicken Avocado
Grilled chicken with avocado, Swiss cheese, ranch, romaine lettuce and tomatoes.
Chicken Alla Broccoli Rabe
Choice of chicken with fresh mozzarella, sauteed broccoli rabe in garlic and oil topped off with grated Parmesan cheese.
Chicken Zesty Style
Choice of chicken with pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions topped with ranch dressing.
Chicken BBQ Style
Choice of chicken with tangy BBQ sauce and melted mozzarella on toasted garlic bread.
The Healthy Mexican
Grilled chicken, avocado, hot cherry peppers, Swiss, lettuce and tomato. Spicy.
The Healthy Sicilian
Choice of chicken, arugula, artichokes, roasted peppers, pesto sauce, olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Popeye
Choice of chicken with sauteed spinach in garlic and oil and melted fresh mozzarella.
The Guido
Choice of chicken with hot cappicola, sauteed broccoli rabe in garlic and oil and melted Asiago cheese.
Chicken Classic
Choice of chicken with lettuce, tomato and mayo.
Angelo's Favorite
Chicken cutlet with crispy bacon, BBQ sauce, melted cheddar cheese and onion rings on toasted garlic bread.
Robby's Favorite
Chicken cutlet with warm brown gravy, onion rings, bacon and melted pepper jack cheese toasted bread.
Now That's Italian
Chicken cutlet with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella cheese, roasted peppers, balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
Chicken Cutlet Parmigiana
Chicken cutlet with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
New York Mets
Chicken cutlet, hot pastrami, hot cherry peppers, smoked gouda cheese, honey mustard. Spicy.
New York Jets
Chicken cutlet, beer battered onion rings, ranch dressing and melted mozzarella cheese.
The Champion
Choice of chicken, arugula, fresh mozzarella, roasted sweet peppers, pesto, balsamic glaze and avocado.
Cheesy And Spicy
Fried chicken cutlet topped off with blue cheese, buffalo hot sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
The Cumare
Fried chicken cutlet, crispy bacon, BBQ sauce, melted mozzarella cheese on a toasted garlic bread.
College Points Favorite
Chicken cutlet with warm brown gravy and melted American cheese on toasted bread.
The Barretta
Chicken cutlets, crispy bacon, cajun mayo, avocado & melted fresh mozzarella cheese

Signature Salad Creations
BIG Caesar Salad $13.95
Crispy romaine lettuce, croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese.
BIG Garden Salad $14.95
Crispy iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, bell peppers and shredded carrots.
BIG Greek Salad $15.95
Crispy romaine lettuce with tomatoes, bell peppers, red onions, olives and feta cheese.
Large Grilled Chicken BLT Salad $18.95
Crispy iceberg lettuce, bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers topped off with grilled chicken.
Large Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad $19.95
Crispy iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, hard boiled eggs, corn, bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese topped off with grilled chicken.
Large Grilled Chicken Italiano Salad $18.95
Crispy romaine lettuce, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, sundried tomatoes, mushrooms and olives topped off with grilled chicken.
Large Chef Salad $18.95
Crispy iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, bell peppers, shredded carrots topped off with boars head ham, turkey and Swiss cheese.
Large Tuna Delight Salad $17.95
Crispy romaine lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, bell peppers topped off with our delicious homemade tuna salad.
Large Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad $18.95
Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, chick peas and avocado topped off with grilled chicken.
Large Grilled Chicken Blue Bird Salad $18.95
Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, almonds, dried cranberries, crumbled blue cheese topped off with grilled chicken.
Large Italian Summer Salad $18.95
Arugula, cherry tomatoes, red onions, roasted red peppers, Asiago cheese topped off with grilled chicken.

Create Your Own Boar's Head Sandwich
Create Your Own Sandwich
COMES With lettuce, Tomatoes & mayo

Breakfast Sandwiches
Two Eggs On A Roll (Add To It) $4.99
Scrambled eggs
BLT Sandwich
Italian BLT And Mozzarella Sandwich
Arugula, crispy bacon, tomatoes, roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella cheese and mayo.

Beverages
Pepsi
The bold, refreshing, robust cola, click to add to your meal.
Diet Pepsi
A crisp tasting, refreshing pop of sweet, fizzy bubbles without calories. Click to add to your meal.
Cherry Pepsi
Cola with a thrilling burst of unique cherry flavor and a sweet, crisp taste.
Mountain Dew
Mtn Dew exhilarates and quenches thirst with its one of a kind citrus taste.
Ginger Ale $2.99
Starry $2.99
A caffeine-free soda that provides a crisp, clear burst of lemon lime flavor.
Stewarts Root Beer
Appeal to the senses with a rich foam, unique aroma and the feeling of ice-cold refreshment.
Stewarts Orange N Cream Soda $2.99
Stewards Black Cherry Soda
Manhattan Special $3.49
Coffee soda
Snapple $2.99
32oz Snapple $3.99
Lemon, Peach of Diet peach
Pure Leaf $2.99
Aquafina Water $2.00
Pure water for a perfect taste. Add a refreshing water to your meal.
Essentia Water 20oz $2.99
Poland Spring Water $1.50
Tropicana Orange Juice Carton $3.49
Apple Juice $2.99
Gatorade $2.99
Blue OR red please type which one thanks :)
Hal's Watermelon Selzer
Plain Seltzer $2.99
Hal's Mango Selzer
Lemon Lime Seltzer $2.99
Berry Seltzer $2.99
Red Bull $3.49
Regular or Sugar free please type what kind you want

Hal's chips
HALS CHIPS $2.49
Type your flavor ...Plain, BBQ, Salt & pepper OR Salt & vin

Cold Side Salads
Mozzarella And Tomato Salad
Macaroni Salad
Potato Salad
Coleslaw

Organic Vanilla Soy Milk Cold Oats
Peanut Butter $5.99
Soaked oats in organic vanilla soy milk and honey with peanut butter
Peanut Butter With Blueberry's And Strawberry $6.99
Soaked oats in organic vanilla soy milk and honey with peanut butter, blueberry and strawberry.
Toasted Almond Coconut $5.99
Soaked oats in organic vanilla soy milk and honey with toasted coconuts and almonds.

Desserts
Homemade Rice Pudding
Banana Waffer Cookie Pudding $4.49
whipped banana cream pudding with fresh bananas and waffer cookies

Catering Assorted Wraps and Sandwich Platters
Assorted Wraps Platter $16.95
Our gourmet sandwich platter consist of either various wraps. You may also choose from an assortment of wraps. Included side dishes are potato and macaroni salad, cole slaw, condiments and paper goods.
Assorted Heroes Platter $14.95
Our gourmet sandwich platter consist of either various heroes. You may also choose from an assortment of heroes. Included side dishes are potato and macaroni salad, cole slaw, condiments and paper goods.
Assorted Sandwiches Platter $14.95
Our gourmet sandwich platter consist of either various sandwiches. You may also choose from an assortment of sandwiches. Included side dishes are potato and macaroni salad, cole slaw, condiments and paper goods.

Catering Cold Cut Platters
Cold Cut Platter $15.95
Your choice of 5 meats and 2 cheeses (we only use Boar's Head Brand). Includes fresh garden salad with dinner rolls, choice of bread, potato salad, macaroni salad, mayo, mustard and balsamic vinaigrette dressing. All paper goods, condiments and serving spoons are provided.
Antipasto Deluxe Platter
Consist of sweet dry sausage, giardiniera, pepperoni, aged provolone cheese, marinated mushrooms, artichoke hearts, olives, roasted peppers and mozzarella balls with sun dried tomatoes.
Fresh Mozzarella And Tomato Platter
Sliced ripe tomatoes topped with homemade fresh mozzarella and basil drizzled in extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Details

Service options
Delivery
In-store pickup
Takeout

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Planning
Quick visit

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Parking
Free street parking

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Photos

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Picture 1

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Picture 2

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Picture 3

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Picture 4

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Picture 5

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Picture 6

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Picture 7

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Picture 8

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Picture 9

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Location

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli

New York Queens County College Point 14th Avenue

129-21 14th Ave, College Point, NY 11356, USA

Benateri's Italian Gourmet Deli Reviews

An average rating of ★4.7 from 517 user reviews.

sandwichesmenuvodka saucecateringto goareameatballprosciuttopaninimozzarella

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Excellent service every time. They always know what they are talking about & have answers to questions and opinions on your thoughts. Their vodka sauce is amazing, outstanding, fantastic! You should get some no matter how you gotta get it.
July 06 · john parente
This place is excellent. I got the Godfather hero. I was excellent. The staff was very helpful and friendly. Highly recommend this place if you love Italian food. 🇮🇹
May 24 · Neil P McGuinness
I stopped by this deli today and was blown away by how great everything was! I had The Godfather on a hero along with some of their hot food — everything was absolutely delicious. The staff were amazing, so friendly and helpful, and they really made me feel like family the moment I walked in. The deli is spotless and well-kept, it’s worth it. I’ll be back for more!
August 09 · Sab1
Drove up from NC to see my daughter and saw this place on YouTube. The video made the food look so good and I can confirm how delicious the food was. We got 3 Hero’s: Godfather, Supremo, and Just Bacon a Living. All of them were overstuffed and great for value for the money. I highly recommend this place to everyone. Thank to everyone there for putting a smile on my family’s face!
July 27 · Marvin Aguado
Staff is always Humble and very friendly. Answers all questions and works with you when some of the Lunch specials run out fast. Hey when the food is that good, you have to be early 😉. My favorite spot to go for Lunch since working in College Point. I brought 2 lunches , I felt like being a Big Back lol, Keep up the fantastic work guys and Amazing Hats.
March 20 · Rodney Byke