Southern California is full of some pretty iconic delis where you can sink your teeth into a towering sandwich with a plate full of homemade sides. Here are 10 of our favorite spots in SoCal that have been around forever in restaurant years. These delis are true classics that keep us coming back again and again. Do you have a favorite on this list?
1. Benjies Delicatessen -- 1828 N Tustin Avenue in Santa Ana
Delightfully old-fashioned in every way, this New-York style deli in Santa Ana is the kind of place where you'll want to linger a while. Friendly and familiar faces, homestyle meals that are consistently delicious, and a cozy environment that will take you back to a simpler time is what you can expect at Benjies each time you visit. Pictured here: the French Dip.
2. Sherman's Deli and Bakery -- 401 E Tahquitz Canyon Way in Palm Springs
Stopping at Sherman's Deli in Palm Springs is always a must on every visit. You'll want to make sure to show up with an appetite because the portions are GIANT. Pictured here: a beautiful turkey club stacked tall with fresh deli meat.
3. Nate 'n Al Delicatessen -- 414 n Beverly Drive in Beverly Hills
Since 1945, this old fashioned deli has a history of serving up memorable sandwiches and classic deli fare. For the real deal, you must try the pastrami sandwich at Nate 'n Al Delicatessen.
4. Katella Deli, Bakery and Restaurant -- 4470 Katella Avenue in Los Alamitos
Located in Los Alamitos, Katella Deli has been a tradition in the SoCal area since 1964. Homemade bread is baked daily, so you know your sandwiches are going to come out fresh and delicious every time. Pictured here: Pastrami on rye topped with a tasty spread of coleslaw.
5. Art's Deli -- 12224 Ventura Blvd in Studio City
Art's Deli is one of those places in SoCal that everyone has been to at least once. There's nothing fancy about this place, but from the moment you walk in you'll feel right at home. And just look at that corned beef sandwich on rye. Now that's a classic!
6. Canter's Deli -- 419 North Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles
Since 1931, Canter's Deli has been a staple in the LA community. Not only is it a familiar landmark on Fairfax, but it's also known for having impressive sandwiches and mouthwatering sides. Take a look at this towering Monte Cristo sandwich!! The best part about Canter's? This deli is open 24 hours, so you can show up at any time for the full Canter's experience day or night.
7. Langer's -- 704 S Alvarado Street in Los Angeles
Located in the heart of Los Angeles, this is the spot to be if you want to sink your teeth into a hot pastrami sandwich. The sign says it all -- it really is world famous!
8. Bay Cities Italian Deli and Bakery -- 1517 Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica
Since 1925 Bay Cities Italian Deli has been Santa Monica's go-to destination for authentic Italian deli sandwiches and sides. Just one thing is all you need to try and you will be hooked on Bay Cities -- just ask for the Godmother and you'll know what I mean.
9. Greenblatt's Deli -- 8017 Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood
Another iconic deli in SoCal that's been around since 1926. Located in West Hollywood, Greenblatt's is a no-nonsense local deli that knows how to make a hearty sandwich that will fill you up for days. Pictured here: Hot Pastrami on double baked rye.
10. Brent's Delicatessen & Restaurant -- 19565 Parthenia Street in Northridge
Whether you want homemade soup, fresh bagels and lox, or a tasty Reuben sandwich, Brent's Deli is the kind of place that's worth the drive to experience the next closest thing to an actual New York deli.
Are you craving a pastrami sandwich right about now? What deli do you think you'll head to first? If you have a go-to spot on the list, we'd love to know which one is your favorite. And, of course, we're dying to know if ordered a pastrami sandwich.
You might also like to take a look at these epic Italian restaurants in Southern California that serve pasta that will tantalize your taste buds.
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