Readers' Choice Deli Winners: Voltaco's and Berenato's

topped our Readers' Choice poll this week as Ocean City's favorite deli. The local institution narrowly defeated in a 242-227 vote.

And why not? Everything Voltaco's prepares is wonderful and somewhat legendary in these parts ... though most of it is hot. 

The purest definition of a "deli" involves cold meats and prepared foods. While Voltaco's has deli sandwiches on its menu, Berenato's probably better fits the bill as a classic deli.

"Voltaco's hands down! Best Italian, best cheesesteak, best turkey!" Patch commenter Lauren Avellino Turton said. "The family's awesome too!" 

Berenato's received the greatest number of favorable comments.

"The best ever deli is far by none other than Berenato's Deli," Patch commenter Joanne Dunn said. "I live in MD and first place I go is the deli ... 5 STAR DELI!"

Patch commenter Tom Anderson pointed out an unlikely late surge in votes for Voltaco's near the close of polling.

Patch allows readers to vote only once in the Readers' Choice polls and programs them to prevent multiple votes, but no online poll is foolproof. Some dramatic spikes in the vote tally may have come from individuals trying to work around the system.

Jeff Taccarino called from Voltaco's on Friday morning to acknowledge the spike in votes, assure Patch that it didn't come from anybody at Voltaco's and graciously suggest that Berenato's should be winner. 

Likewise, Sharon Berenato offered these kind words on Friday: "Berenato's Corner Deli would like to congratulate Voltaco's and thank all our loyal customers for their support."

The spirit of the Patch Readers' Choice polls is to find better eating, shopping and fun for our readers, so take a look at the votes and the comments below. Seems as if there are plenty of winners and good recommendations.