Brass Bear Delicatessan — Alamo

Brass Bear Delicatessen 190 Alamo Plaza, Ste. E, Alamo, (925) 820-4420, www.brassbear.eastbaysocial.com. Lunch daily.

Maybe it’s the sunflowers on the side buffet, the abundant teddy bears, or the salami hanging from the wood rafters. After 28 years in Alamo, the Brass Bear Deli still emanates homey comfort. Regulars opt for the window seats and rave about the soup—especially Friday’s clam chowder ($2.95 a half-pint). Sandwiches here are all about big, fresh rolls—Dutch crunch, sweet roll, sourdough, or whole wheat—and Saag’s and Boar’s Head meats and cheeses. Customized add-ons range from avocado to finely shredded lettuce. Salads rotate and may include seafood (calamari, $4.50 a half-pint), vinaigrette-dressed red potato salad, or regular potato salad with egg and mayo (both $2.60 a half-pint). For a sweet finish, try cookies, chocolate brownies, or nut bars from the Ultimate Cookie Co., baklava ($1.50), or a small cup of blackberry Cabernet Ciao Bella gelato ($1.95).

Cheapest thing on menu: Soup ($2.95).
Most expensive: Specialty sandwiches such as Reuben-on-a-roll or Italian combo ($6.95).
Spiciest: Add pepper Jack cheese or pepperoncini to your sandwich.
Healthiest: Fresh fruit salad ($2.60).
Kid-friendly? Lots of big, stuffed bears to play with and half-sandwiches to share.
Speedy eats? Efficient and quick sandwich-making skills.
Big parties? Pull a few tables together for small groups. The deli is known for catering and party tray takeout.
Alcohol? Yes, imported beer, and a few Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon bottles for purchase in the cooler.
Outdoor seating? Yes.
Credit cards? Accepts all major credit cards.