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Johnnie's Pastrami
Master Critic Review
Johnnie's Pastrami
8.0
Since 1952, this retro diner with working jukeboxes serves what many consider LA's best hot pastrami sandwich. The pastrami arrives perfectly seasoned and piled high on steamed buns, accompanied by crispy fries, coleslaw, and crunchy pickles in a nostalgic 1950s atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hot Pastrami French Dip, Pastrami Sandwich, Chili Cheese Fries
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Seventy-plus years perfecting hot pastrami in original 1950s diner setting
Who should go: Pastrami purists and nostalgic diner lovers
When to visit: Late night Friday-Saturday until 11pm for authentic vibes
What to order: Hot pastrami french dip, ask for atomic mustard
Insider tip: Order the deluxe plate for fries, coleslaw, and pickles included
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking on Sepulveda and side streets, usually available. Small lot adjacent to restaurant.
Dress code: Ultra casual - come as you are. T-shirts, jeans, work clothes all standard.
Noise level: Moderate to loud - retro diner acoustics with jukebox, but booths offer intimacy
Weekend wait: 15-25 min during prime hours (7-9pm), faster at counter seats
Weekday lunch: 10-15 min typical, counter seats usually immediate
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - veggie burger, grilled cheese, salads available
Vegan options: Very limited - modify salads, fries cooked in vegetable oil
Gluten-free options: Minimal options - salads without croutons, pastrami without bun (not recommended)
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, but for the right match - perfect for low-key, no-pretense dates. The retro diner vibes and working jukeboxes create fun conversation starters. Better for lunch/early dinner than romantic late night.
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations - it's first-come, first-served. Weekday visits rarely require waits over 15 minutes. Weekend evenings expect 20-30 minutes, but counter seating moves faster if you're flexible.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely kid-friendly - classic diner food kids love, crayons available, booth seating accommodates families. The jukeboxes keep children entertained. No changing tables in restrooms though.
Do they serve breakfast? No breakfast - opens at 10am daily. Menu is consistent throughout service: pastrami sandwiches, burgers, and classic diner fare.
Is the pastrami better than Langer's? Different styles - Johnnie's serves hot pastrami on steamed buns (deli-style), while Langer's does traditional New York-style on rye. Johnnie's is greasier, more casual, and half the price. Both are LA institutions worth trying.
Best For
Better for: Best in LA for authentic old-school hot pastrami experience with working jukebox nostalgia. Unbeatable value under $15. Better than competitors for casual, fast service and consistent quality since 1952. The atomic mustard and steamed bun preparation is unique.
Skip if: You want traditional New York-style pastrami on rye (go to Langer's or Canter's instead). Skip if you need extensive vegetarian/vegan options, table service, or quiet romantic ambiance. Not ideal for large groups over 6 people.