For a Northeastern city of its size, Boston sure lacks a wide selection of good delis. Forget New York City; even Baltimore has a prouder deli-sandwich reputation. But it wasn’t always like this. Years ago, politicians and activists schmoozed over corned-beef sandwiches at places like the G&G on Blue Hill Avenue. Corned-beef mavens still kvell over the fare at Jack & Marion’s. And while Brookline now has Zaftigs for the nouveau set and Rubin’s for those who keep kosher, I generally find myself trucking out to Fresser’s Sandwich Emporium in Randolph for good old basic corned beef.

Now comes Michael’s Deli in Coolidge Corner. The owner, who formerly ran a deli in Marblehead for 25 years, has a simple concept: serve the best corned beef in humungous amounts at the cheapest possible price. He imports the deli meat from New York daily. A corned-beef sandwich costs just $5.99. It’s a welcome addition to a city always seeking first-class status.

Available at Michael’s Deli, 256 Harvard Street, in Brookline. Call (617) 738-3354.