In Search of the Perfect Pastrami Sandwich in Southern California

While I have spent most of my life in Southern California, I was born in NYC and spent my twenties there. The cliches about deli food, pizza and Chinese food in Southern California are true – most of it is disappointing.

Deli food, in particular, is a challenge. The ultimate test is a pastrami sandwich. New York is the birthplace of the American pastrami sandwich. Back in 1887, a kosher butcher named Sussman Volk served the first pastrami sandwich. In my opinion, Katz’s Delicatessen in lower Manhattan makes the best version. You are even given a taste of the meat as it is sliced for your sandwich.

In California, my favorite place is a 2-hour drive away from where I live. Tucked inside a small strip mall in Northridge is my favorite deli Brent’s. The exterior is very unassuming. The restaurant opened in 1967 and serves all the classic deli items. Not only is the food terrific but the staff is extremely friendly and makes you feel like family. Call me crazy for making the drive but the pastrami is worth it. So many places serve either dried out or really fatty and bland pastrami. Plus, pastrami needs to be served on fresh rye bread that has a slight chewiness to it. Brent’s rye is so amazing that I usually buy a loaf for home. In addition, the plate of pickles is a nice touch and reminds me of the assortment served at Katz’s in New York.

Recently. I discovered a second option that is a little closer to home. Located in adorable downtown Fullerton is Roscoe’s Famous Deli; this restaurant has only been around for about 14 years. Like Brent’s, the sandwiches are enormous. The bread at Roscoe’s is sliced a little thicker than normal but is delicious. I asked our server about the bread and was told that it is made at a nearby specialty bakery. The olive on top of each sandwich half is a pleasant addition. Roscoe’s definitely has a fun pub atmosphere with both spacious indoor and outdoor dining.

In summary, I really like Roscoe’s but I love Brent’s. I will continue to make sporadic two-hour excursions to Northridge for the ultimate pastrami adventure!