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Nate 'n Al's Delicatessen
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Nate 'n Al's Delicatessen
8.5
Since 1945, this Beverly Hills institution has been serving traditional Jewish deli fare with exceptional bagel and lox platters that draw celebrities and locals alike. The hand-sliced nova on their underrated bagels creates the quintessential LA deli experience, backed by nearly 80 years of consistent quality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bagel 'n Lox with Nova, Stuffed Cabbage, Matzo Ball Soup
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 9.4
What makes it special: Original 1945 recipes and celebrity clientele legacy
Who should go: Traditionalists seeking authentic Jewish deli experience
When to visit: Weekend brunch for prime people-watching
What to order: Nova lox bagel, matzo ball soup, pastrami
Insider tip: Ask for extra schmear - they're generous with portions
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $8 with validation, metered street parking limited during lunch rush
Dress code: Casual - anything from workout clothes to business attire fits in
Noise level: Lively buzz - booth seating better for conversation than counter
Weekend wait: 30-45 min typical, up to 90 min for Saturday brunch
Weekday lunch: 15-20 min during peak business lunch hours (12-1:30pm)
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive egg dishes, salads, and veggie sandwiches
Vegan options: Very limited - mainly salads without cheese/dressing modifications
Gluten-free options: Limited - salads and proteins available, no dedicated GF bread
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual second or third dates - the deli vibe is more comfort than romance, but the celebrity-spotting adds fun conversation fodder
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes on weekdays before 11:30am or after 2pm. Weekend brunch always has a wait - put your name in and browse nearby shops
Is it kid-friendly? Very - high chairs available, kids menu, and staff are patient with families. The noise level means crying babies won't disturb anyone
Best For
Better for: Authentic Jewish comfort food and celebrity sightings - more traditional than Canter's, better bagels than Factor's
Skip if: You want modern twists on deli classics or Instagram-worthy presentations - try Wexler's or Daughter's Deli instead
Nate 'n Al's Delicatessen
8.6
This authentic Jewish deli has been serving oversized pastrami sandwiches and matzo ball soup since 1945, maintaining its vintage charm with red vinyl booths and walls lined with celebrity photos. The portions are enormous, the pickles are complimentary, and the atmosphere is pure old-school Beverly Hills nostalgia.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pastrami Sandwich, Matzo Ball Soup, Lox and Bagel Platter
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Authentic NYC-style deli fare since 1945
Who should go: Deli lovers and nostalgia seekers
When to visit: Weekend mornings before the rush hits
What to order: Pastrami sandwich, matzo ball soup, rugelach
Insider tip: Free parking structure nearby offers 2 hours
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free 2-hour parking in city structure on Canon Drive, metered street parking typically available on weekdays, valet not offered
Dress code: Come as you are - locals in workout gear, tourists in shorts, business folks in suits all fit right in
Noise level: Lively deli bustle - can definitely hear your conversation but expect ambient chatter and clattering dishes
Weekend wait: 30-45 min typical, up to 60 min for larger parties on Saturdays
Weekday lunch: 15-20 min during peak lunch rush (12-1:30pm), minimal wait otherwise
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - excellent egg dishes, blintzes, potato pancakes, and multiple salads
Vegan options: Very limited - mainly salads without cheese, best to call ahead for options
Gluten-free options: Some options available but no dedicated prep - omelets, salads, and they can do lettuce wraps for sandwiches
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual daytime dates than romantic evenings - the bright lighting and family atmosphere make it low-pressure but not particularly intimate
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations - it's first come, first served. Avoid weekend brunch rush (10am-1pm) or expect a wait
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely - high chairs available, crayons at the host stand, and servers who've seen it all. The chocolate chip pancakes are kid-sized portions perfect for sharing
Best For
Better for: Authentic Jewish deli experience with history - beats Canter's for atmosphere and has better pastrami than most newer spots
Skip if: You want modern/trendy breakfast, need extensive vegan options, or prefer quiet intimate dining