Its numerous tables, outdoor seating and free wireless Internet make Lion’s Den Café and Deli in Brentwood an unmistakably user-friendly business. “It’s a good hangout place for college students,” said Max Babukr, who owns the restaurant with his father, Haidrah, and manages the café’s day-to-day operations. “It’s a good family spot.”

Opened in October, Lion’s Den offers sandwiches, coffee and treats at affordable prices for students, families and commuters on the go.

Having helped his uncle operate a similar business in the Bay Area, Max approached Lion’s Den with some restaurant experience under his belt. Though much of the menu is the same as his uncle’s popular offerings, the Babukrs added a grill to Lion’s Den.

This led to the highly demanded Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich ($4.99), made with grilled onions, bell peppers, sweet peppers and a special sauce, and topped with melted Swiss cheese. It’s also made with care: “Our meat is 100 percent grass-fed Angus beef,” Max said proudly.

Another popular order is the Double Burger Combo ($5.99), which comes with French fries and a drink and is topped with all the trimmings, including grilled mushrooms, onions and a secret seasoning. Other available burger toppings include avocado, turkey bacon, and even deli meats such as pastrami and roast beef. Deli sandwiches ($5.95) range from Turkey, Havarti and Pesto to Roast Beef, Horseradish and Provolone.

Vegetarians often favor the Avocado, Feta, Olive Oil and Oregano ($6.25), hot off of the sandwich press, and those looking for something different might try the Falafel, Hummus and Tahini Sauce sandwich ($5.95). Sides include Curly Fries ($1.99), Chicken Strips (79 cents) and Jalapeno Poppers ($2.99) for that extra kick.

Patrons can also enjoy a $1 scoop of ice cream, either for dessert or a stand-alone treat. Breakfast Bagels include the Turkey Ham and Swiss on a Croissant ($4.95) and the Veggie Bagel Breaker ($4.25), made with avocado, artichoke, cream cheese and spinach.

Since commuters and college students alike thrive on coffee, Lion’s Den offers a wide selection. “Our espresso is all organic,” said Max. From the hot Depth Charge ($2.25) to the classic Cappuccino ($2.60), the café provides many hot and cold beverages. Those who stayed up too late can try the Blended Alarm Clock ($5.95), made with coffee ice cream and four shots of espresso. For a mid-day pickup, the White Chocolate Mocha ($2.95) and the Caramel Macchiato ($2.95) are both popular choices. Hot Chocolate ($2) and fruit smoothies ($3.75) provides sweet alternatives for those avoiding caffeine.

Max, who learned entrepreneurship from his father’s other successful businesses, enjoys getting to know his customers personally, and even joins a group of them to play football every Sunday. “We have a lot of return customers,” said Max. “Every month is better than the month before.” It seems Lion’s Den diners agree; one woman thanked him as she was leaving and announced, “It was a great sandwich, as usual!”

Lion’s Den Café and Deli, located at 7351 Brentwood Blvd., Suite B, is open Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 925-240-1373. Call-ahead orders and catering are available.