I own a Glock 23 (same as 19 just a .40 instead of 9mm) and a Beretta 96 (along with many other guns) but with the choices given, I say get the Glock 19.
Reasons -- Cheaper to shoot, easier to carry concealed, a little less recoil (if that is a concern), shorter trigger travel than the Beretta, has a light rail (depending on generation), and better surface finish.
Anyway, opinions are like buttholes... Lots of people are gonna tell you to get all sorts of things.
(Hey, let me know if he wants to do a private sale on Glock 19 if you decide to get the Beretta. I'm interested.)