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Canter's Deli
Master Critic Review
Canter's Deli
8.9
Since the 1930s, Canter's has been a cornerstone Jewish deli slinging stacked pastrami, matzo ball soup, and late-night sandwiches to generations of Angelenos. The Fairfax location stays busy around the clock, with counter stools and vinyl booths filled by locals, industry night owls, and visitors chasing a classic deli experience. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Must-Try Dishes:
Pastrami Reuben on rye, Corned beef on double-baked rye, Turkey Reuben melt
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Historic Fairfax deli serving piled-high Jewish sandwiches day and night.
Who should go: Deli traditionalists and late-night sandwich seekers.
When to visit: Late nights or off-peak afternoons to avoid long waits.
What to order: Pastrami Reuben, corned beef on rye, matzo ball soup.
Insider tip: Ask for your rye extra-toasted and grab a seat at the counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small on-site lot with limited spaces; street parking on Fairfax and side streets is metered and tight during peak hours, easier after midnight.
Dress code: Casual—hoodies, jeans, and late-night attire are all normal. No need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate to lively depending on the hour; late nights can be energetic but you can still hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak deli rush, but the late-night hours often have seats available.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, with faster turnover at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several solid options including veggie sandwiches, salads, soups, and breakfast plates.
Vegan options: Limited—some salads and vegetable sides can be modified, but most menu staples contain dairy or eggs.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free bread is available for many sandwiches; soups and sides vary, so ask staff for safe picks.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great if the vibe you're going for is classic, casual LA history. Not ideal for a romantic, quiet first date, but perfect for a low-pressure, late-night meetup with character.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Canter’s doesn’t rely on reservations. Walk-ins are the norm, and the 24/7 hours make it easy to find a seat outside peak rushes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Booth seating, a wide menu, and quick service make it good for families. Younger kids may find the late-night crowd a bit loud, but daytime and early evenings are very kid-friendly.
Best For
Better for: Late-night deli classics, massive portions, historic character, and a wide-ranging menu that works for groups with mixed tastes.
Skip if: You want a modern, chef-driven sandwich shop, very quiet ambiance, or strictly vegan/kosher dining options (this is traditional but not fully kosher).