Los Angeles Explorers Guild: Langer’s #19
Our sincere thanks to Tom Fassbender, proprietor of Los Angeles Explorers Guild, a fascinating site that looks at all things Angeleno. Tom recently paid a visit to Langer’s and penned this homage to our legendary #19:
Langer’s No. 19 is a hot pastrami sandwich. The Langer’s menu says the No. 19 is comprised of Pastrami, Swiss Cheese, Cole Slaw, and Russian Style Dressing. But that description doesn’t really do the sandwich justice.
You see, Langer’s pastrami is the stuff of legend. Pastrami is beef brisket that’s been brined, seasoned, and smoked. Even though it’s steamed before serving, it’s typically a bit tough and chewy. But Langer’s steams their pastrami for three hours (much longer than normal) , a process that makes the meat so tender it can only be sliced by hand.
The sandwich is also served on Langer’s equally legendary double-baked rye bread that features a delightfully crispy crust and tender bread infused with just enough caraway seed. Matched with the tender, hand-sliced pastrami (along with a half-pickle and Gulden’s Spicy Brown Mustard), the No. 19 is a consistently great sandwich.
Our thanks for such a great write-up! Tom, please make sure you say hello next time you are in!
