Sorry New York, New York
Bedbug infestations. On-the-money Onion headline stories exposing your structural flaws. Unspeakable, horrific acts of terrorism.
New York, it admittedly hasn’t been an easy time for you in recent years. I love you. If you are privileged enough to have a modicum of free time and resources, you are truly an incredible city to visit. It therefore hurts me to kick you further when you are down when I say this:
The best pastrami-on-toasted-rye sandwich in the country does not reside in one your vaunted delis.
It’s the #19 from Langer’s. Hands down. Indisputable. Take it to the bank.
Nestled on a horribly conjested corner on Alvarado and 7th near downtown, Langer’s is also the ideal place to visit if you want to be accosted in the street by 3 homeless men or entrepreneurs selling fake I.D.’s (watch out, compadre, Homeland Security is serious about this stuff these days). I once saw a woman take a shit out in the open about 3 blocks away. Despite this act of terrorism-on-my-eyes, I still eagerly take the subway from downtown to eat at the counter while listening to the awesome 89 year old retiree next to me flirt with the 65 year old waitress. That should tell you how great this place is.
But not to worry, New York. You still have the Yankees and Wall Street.
Langer’s, 704 S Alvarado, Los Angeles, CA 90057, (213) 483-8050.
