The Great Pastrami Pursuit: A Los Angeles Odyssey
Los Angeles, the city of dreams, sunshine, and apparently, a serious pastrami obsession. I mean, who knew this town, known for its salads and its obsession with being seen, would have such a deep-rooted love affair with a pile of cured meat? But here we are, diving headfirst into the delicious chaos that is the LA pastrami scene.
Langer's: The Granddaddy of Them All
Let’s start with the obvious: Langer's. It's like the Brad Pitt of the pastrami world - everyone knows it, everyone loves it, and it's always got a crowd. Their pastrami is legendary, and for good reason. It's a thick, juicy beast that practically melts in your mouth. But let's be real, it's also a total tourist trap. So, if you're looking for a quiet, intimate pastrami experience, this ain't it.
The Underdogs: Don't Sleep on These Joints
Now, while Langer's gets all the glory, there are some serious contenders out there.
- Johnny's Pastrami: This place is a hole-in-the-wall with a cult following. Their pastrami is leaner than Langer's, but with a more intense flavor. It's like the indie darling of the pastrami world.
- Brent's Deli: A Northridge institution, Brent's is known for its massive portions and classic deli fare. Their pastrami is solid, but it's the overall experience that keeps people coming back.
- Factor's Famous Deli: If you're on the Westside, Factor's is worth a shot. Their pastrami is good, but it's their other deli offerings that really shine.
The Great Pastrami Debate: A Never-Ending Story
So, who really has the best pastrami in LA? Well, that's like asking if Brad Pitt or George Clooney is hotter - it's subjective, and there's no right answer. The best way to find out is to embark on a culinary quest and try them all. Your taste buds will thank you.
Just remember: Pastrami is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself, and maybe bring a friend to share the load. And most importantly, enjoy the journey!
How to... Pastrami Edition
- How to order your pastrami: Ask for it on rye, with mustard and Swiss cheese. This is the classic combo for a reason.
- How to eat your pastrami: Slowly. Savor every bite. Don't be afraid to get messy.
- How to survive a pastrami hangover: Lots of water, and maybe a little pickle juice.
- How to impress your friends with your pastrami knowledge: Drop some obscure facts about pastrami curing and smoking.
- How to avoid pastrami disappointment: Do your research, and be open to trying new places.
