Cafe Del Buono

Cafe Del Buono 4609 Commercial Dr, New Hartford, NY 13413

Cafe Del Buono is a long-time privately owned restaurant that has survived for many years among an ever-growing number of national chains. Why? Because it's tasty as hell! Their French Dip is no different.

Basics- It's a thin sliced roast beef on a round roll with cheddar served with au jus. With a choice of chips, fries or cottage cheese and a pickle for $12.

The Beef- There was a nice amount of beef and it looked as if the chef actually took the time to arrange it to feed the eyes, as they say. Pretty thinly Sliced and warmed in the au jus. Though I couldn't say whether the beef is cooked in house or if it's deli meat. Felt like deli meat.

The Au Jus- As I said above the beef was warmed in it, and it was flavorful and in a good way. Not too salty or concentrated, but not bland either. My only criticism of the jus is the delivery. With the round sandwich that wasn't cut in half. I know that I can do it myself, but stick with me here. I didn't have a pointy part to fit in the jus cup, which was small. But I feel that's a small issue and not a deal breaker for me.

The Roll- the roll was round. It's not uncommon for the part of the country that I live in but in my opinion the wrong shape for french dip. It was fresh, TOASTED (which is very important! Don't skip the easy tasty details people) and nice and soft. Good quality roll. That being said, with the beef warmed in the au jus even the toast of the roll couldn't hold back the soggy factor. It was having a hard time holding its structure before long.

Summary- this is an all in all good sandwich. Good portion, good flavor and for $12 with a side and a pickle. If I'm in the area and ready for lunch and a couple beers it's an option that I think about. I'll go back. The staff is friendly and often the owner is working right along with them. You'll spend the same or more at a fast food slop hole so cut the shit and try it.