Langer's Delicatessen

Home of the #19 — hot pastrami, Swiss, coleslaw, and Russian dressing on double-baked rye — and, per many, the best pastrami sandwich in America. A friend sends you here over any other LA deli, full stop. Caveats: it's open 8am-4pm, closed Sundays, and the MacArthur Park area asks for street smarts.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How do I get there by transit?

The Metro B/D line's Westlake/MacArthur Park station is literally across the street — one of the most transit-convenient great meals in LA. Just mind the hours since it closes at 4pm.

Where do I park?

Langer's runs its own monitored lot near 7th and Westlake, a block away — use it. It's the easy, safe option and beats street parking here.

Is the neighborhood safe?

MacArthur Park has a rough reputation and you should be aware of your surroundings, but the deli itself is a well-run daytime institution. Park in their lot, go during daylight, and you'll be fine.

Is it really better than Canter's or New York delis?

Many serious eaters, including the late Jonathan Gold, called it the best pastrami in the country. The double-baked rye and the way they steam the pastrami set it apart. It's the pastrami hill worth dying on in LA.

What are Langer's hours?

Monday-Saturday 8am-4pm, closed Sundays and some holidays. It's a daytime-only spot, so plan lunch, not dinner — this trips up a lot of first-timers.

How's the wait?

There can be a line at peak lunch, but it moves and the daytime-only hours keep it saner than the hot-chicken lines across town. Right at 8am open is the calmest.

What do I order?

The #19, no question — hot pastrami with Swiss, coleslaw, and Russian dressing on their double-baked rye. If you want it plainer, get the pastrami on rye and taste why people fly in for it.

Can I get it to go?

Yes, and they even do curbside pickup given the lot setup. A #19 to go is a fine plan if you'd rather eat elsewhere.

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