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Fat Sal's - Venice Beach
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Fat Sal's - Venice Beach
8.0
Fat Sal's at the base of Washington Blvd is a late-night favorite for over-the-top sandwiches, chopped-cheese style burgers, and loaded fries a short walk from the sand. It’s less about restraint and more about big, messy, satisfying comfort food before or after bar time.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fat Jerry, Fat Texas, Fat Hot Chick
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Maxed-out, stunt-level sandwiches and burgers served deep into the night steps from the beach.
Who should go: Late-night crews craving ultra-heavy, indulgent comfort food
When to visit: Late evenings and post-bar hours when the line is buzzing
What to order: Fat Jerry, Fat Texas, Fat Hot Chick
Insider tip: Split one of the massive sandwiches and a basket of fries if you don’t want a true food coma.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only along Washington Blvd and neighboring residential blocks; can be tight on weekends and after 9pm, so expect a short walk.
Dress code: Totally casual—beachwear, hoodies, and post-bar outfits all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during late-night rushes; outdoor ordering area gets lively but still manageable for casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes depending on bar traffic and beach crowds.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick counter-service flow.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but available—fries, salads, and customizable sandwiches without meat.
Vegan options: Very limited; fries are the most reliable vegan-friendly choice.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free menu or protocols; cross-contamination likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates messy, over-the-top comfort food. It’s fun and playful but not a polished or quiet setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—this is counter-service with a walk-up model. Seating is first-come, first-served and turns over fast, especially later at night.
Is it kid-friendly? Earlier in the day, yes—kids who like burgers and fries will be fine. Late-night crowds skew loud and adult-oriented, so families should stick to daytime visits.
Best For
Better for: Massive, indulgent stacked sandwiches and late-night cravings that outmatch most Marina Peninsula options.
Skip if: You want a light meal, healthy options, or a quiet sit-down experience—look elsewhere for anything more refined.
Fat Sal's - Venice Beach
8.0
Fat Sal's on Washington Boulevard is the over-the-top deli where stuffed heroes, cheesesteaks, and loaded fries fuel beach days and late nights. Portions run huge, flavors lean indulgent, and the menu reads like a greatest-hits list of everything you probably shouldn’t eat daily.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fat Sal Sandwich, Fat Texas BBQ Sandwich, Fat Jerry Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Beach-adjacent deli turning out maximalist stuffed sandwiches until the early hours.
Who should go: Hungry night owls and beachgoers craving serious sandwiches
When to visit: Late nights and post-beach evenings for peak energy
What to order: Fat Sal, Fat Texas, fries or onion rings on the side
Insider tip: Split a sandwich or fries—portions are massive and easily shareable.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly metered street parking along Washington Blvd and nearby side streets; can be tight during beach hours and late-night rush. No valet.
Dress code: Ultra casual — beachwear, athleisure, and everyday clothing all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate to loud, especially late night; expect lively energy and plenty of takeout traffic.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak late-night hours, especially after bars close.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait; orders move quickly even when busy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including veggie-loaded sandwiches and sides, though focus remains on indulgent builds.
Vegan options: Limited — customization possible but no dedicated vegan builds.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free bread; salads and certain sides may work but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your vibe is casual, chaotic, and comfort-food-driven. Massive, messy sandwiches aren’t ideal for a polished first impression.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it's counter-service with open seating. At peak times you may need to wait for an open table, but turnover is fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who can handle big, messy sandwiches and louder energy. Limited accommodations for toddlers; no dedicated kids' menu.
Best For
Better for: Late-night, over-the-top sandwiches and loaded sides that outdo most traditional delis and beach-adjacent counters.
Skip if: You want healthy options, quieter dining, or gluten-free bread — nearby cafés or lighter sandwich shops will serve you better.