When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Johnny's Pastrami
Why Johnny's Pastrami is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Johnny's Pastrami, located in Culver City, California, is a beloved destination renowned for its outstanding pastrami sandwiches, making it an ideal place to meet up with friends and enjoy classic American diner fare. The moment you enter, you encounter a nostalgic 1950s diner ambiance featuring mini jukeboxes at each table, enhancing the friendly and inviting atmosphere. Known primarily for their pastrami, they serve it in a variety of styles including the much-praised Hot Pastrami French Dip. But Johnny's offerings go beyond pastrami, with customers frequently highlighting their burgers, fish items, crispy French fries, and indulgent milkshakes. The complimentary pickles add a delightful touch to every meal. The diner’s consistency in quality and reasonable prices have made it a local favorite for over two decades. Whether picking up an order, dining in, or using delivery services, Johnny's Pastrami ensures hot, delicious meals that satisfy both casual encounters and special get-togethers. This combination of quality food, nostalgic atmosphere, and attentive service makes Johnny's Pastrami a memorable and great spot to gather with friends.
Here's what people think of Johnny's Pastrami
As of recent, Johnny's Pastrami holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1565 reviews.
With an overall rating of 4.3 from over 1,500 reviews, the consensus among patrons is that Johnny's Pastrami offers some of the best pastrami sandwiches available in the Culver City area. Positive reviews commonly emphasize the exceptional quality and flavor of the pastrami, describing it as simply the best. Guests also appreciate the authentic 1950s diner experience, noting features such as small table jukeboxes and friendly service, which enhance the dining atmosphere. Many reviewers mention the satisfying variety beyond pastrami, including standout burgers, fish dishes, crispy fries, and milkshakes, with complimentary pickles often praised as a nice touch. Customers frequently remark on the convenience of ordering, whether by call-in, pick-up, or delivery. On the downside, some reviews express concern about rising prices, with certain long-time patrons mentioning that a family meal can become expensive, which may deter more frequent visits. Additionally, a few reviews note occasional issues with parking and seating arrangements, as well as sporadic service inconsistency. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment remains strongly positive, and many customers return repeatedly for the consistently flavorful sandwiches and nostalgic ambiance. In conclusion, Johnny's Pastrami is widely regarded as a culinary landmark known for its delicious pastrami and diner charm, maintaining a loyal following despite some concerns about cost and logistics.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
E Yen
The pastrami burnt ends were tasty. They didn't taste dry. The sandwiches were huge. There was so much pastrami; we could have made an extra sandwich. The outdoor seating is very nice. The tavern part only opens at night, but the dance floor looks inviting.
C Camp
Long time customer, first time review. Ive been eating here since long before the renovation. This place used to be a staple for me and my family. I'm not sure if its shrinkflation, or terrible circumstances, but my last visit was terrible. To start, my food took an extra 20 minutes due to a large order they were filling. If you know anything or this location, you know parking isn't the greatest. I was picking up on the way home with my kiddo as well, so this made the delay even more frustrating. Get home and I feel like the portions shrank from just a few weeks ago. I understand we are all suffering in this economy, but it still sucks. I open my chicken tenders and where there used be to 3 beautiful cuts, were 2 measley ones. They were so small, they even changed the box they used to come in. They used to come in a rectangular box, to hold their massive, juicy goodness. Now they come in a square box. Once again, I understand we are all suffering, but maybe dont skimp on the food, and spend on these ridiculously nice take out boxes. Branding at its finest. Name and location. I dont need this on my take out. What I need are my beautiful, juicy, thick chicken strips. This is a sad day indeed 😢 Pictures attached, amd dipping sauce for scale of chicken tender size
Jay Mamon
This spot is a hidden gem in Mid City—a great place to meet up with friends and relax. While it doesn’t have its own parking lot, street parking is usually easy to find.
alice chung
For vegetarians, the Green Goddess Salad is pretty legit and tasty. It’s not boring or your typical salad. Highly recommend. Another amazing selection is their Banana Cream Pie, one of the best I’ve ever had. The amount of whipped cream balances out the sweetness of the caramel drizzled on top. And the best part was the toasted almond slices that were truly the cherry on top. Simple, delicious. My only complaint was that there wasn’t enough crust! No crust at bottom of pie and barely any on the sides. Nonetheless, I’ll be ordering this dessert again. There’s a whole ‘another bar space right next door and plenty of outdoor patio dining space. Can’t wait to come here again.
Darryl Ford
The food here is spectacular. Worth a stop if you are anywhere in the area. The pastrami (sliced or chopped) is full of flavor and so soft and delicious they give you a healthy batch. Was less impressed with the brisket sandwich but certainly it was tasty. They give you a large portion of fries (the thick kind) though I would recommend the onion rings as a side. Don't forget to ask for your pickle slices. You will take a hit to the wallet but well worth it.
How to reach Johnny's Pastrami
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Why Johnny's Pastrami may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Johnny's Pastrami with your friends? Because this spot in Culver City offers an authentic, unpretentious slice of classic LA deli culture that’s as much about the experience as it is the food. With a solid 4.3-star rating from over 1,500 reviewers, Johnny's Pastrami stands out for its large, hearty sandwiches and welcoming vibes. It’s a perfect place to gather your friends or family who appreciate good, nostalgic eats served up with a side of old-school charm. The atmosphere is laid-back and inviting, far from fancy but full of character—think a 1950s diner feel with a counter, booths inside, and outdoor seating that lets you enjoy the bustling Sepulveda Boulevard scene. Whether your group is craving thick, smoky pastrami sandwiches dipped in a boiling-hot au jus or chili fries that steal the show, Johnny’s delivers generous portions and bold flavors that satisfy hunger and encourage sharing. It’s less of a polished restaurant and more of a neighborhood institution, creating a casual, lively backdrop where friends can relax, chat, and bond over classic comfort food, making it a prime rally point for meetups.
What activities can you enjoy at Johnny’s Pastrami to make it perfect for a group meetup? The main attraction is, of course, the food, which invites communal sharing and tasting. Groups can order a variety of iconic menu items like the famous pastrami sandwiches, chili fries, and cheeseburgers, each designed to be hearty and satisfying—perfect for splitting or sampling together. The large portions encourage a relaxed, family-style dining experience where everyone can try a bit of everything. The casual setting fosters conversation and easy camaraderie, whether you’re seated at the counter, a cozy booth, or outside with views of the lively street. Because the venue isn't overly fancy or formal, it’s easy to drop in and out, catering to spontaneous hangouts or planned gatherings. Furthermore, the friendly and expert service enhances the experience, helping newcomers navigate the menu and enhancing the communal vibe. Although parking can be challenging due to a small lot, this adds a bit of “insider” cachet, making your meetup feel like a discovered local gem rather than a tourist hotspot.
How does Johnny’s Pastrami’s atmosphere enhance group meetups? Johnny’s has an old-school diner aesthetic that instantly sets a nostalgic tone conducive to relaxed and meaningful interactions. Inside, the seating is limited to booths and counter stools, which naturally encourages groups to huddle together, fostering intimacy and warmth. The outdoor seating adds another layer of enjoyment, allowing groups to soak in the ambiance of Culver City’s busy Sepulveda Boulevard with its energetic flow of traffic and pedestrians. This mix of indoor coziness and outdoor vitality creates a dynamic environment where groups can enjoy either a quieter meal or a lively social gathering. The restaurant’s unpretentious decor means that attention stays on the food and company, helping groups focus on the joy of catching up without distractions. The staff’s gruff but friendly demeanor adds character to the service, making guests feel like part of a tradition rather than just customers, further cementing Johnny’s as a social hub for locals and visitors alike.
What makes Johnny’s Pastrami’s menu especially well-suited for groups? The menu’s highlight is the signature pastrami sandwich, known for being generously portioned, piping hot, and bursting with flavor when dipped into its unique, boiling au jus. This hearty sandwich can easily satisfy a large appetite and is ideal for sharing or recommending among friends who are pastrami aficionados or curious newcomers. Beyond the pastrami, the chili fries are highly praised; they feature a savory all-meat chili that adds a rich, indulgent flair to a communal appetizer or side dish. The cheeseburgers offer an alternative for those who may want something different but equally satisfying. Overall, the menu leans toward generous, comfort food classics that appeal broadly and foster a collective tasting experience. This diversity ensures that everyone in the group can find something they’re excited about, making it easier to plan a successful meetup without menu conflicts.
How accessible and convenient is Johnny’s Pastrami for group gatherings? While the venue is popular and well-loved, it does face some logistical challenges that groups should be aware of. Parking is limited due to a small and tight lot, and navigating the entrance can be tricky, especially with nearby heavy traffic and freeway access. However, these challenges also help keep the place authentic and less touristy—ideal for groups who value atmosphere over ease of access. The restaurant’s location on Sepulveda Boulevard places it in a bustling area rich with other amenities if your group wishes to extend the meetup before or after dining. Seating availability can vary but generally includes booths indoors and a decent number of outdoor seats, offering options based on group size and preference. For larger parties or special occasions, it’s wise to plan ahead. Despite these factors, many patrons find the effort worthwhile for the food’s quality and the experience’s genuine vibe.
Why is Johnny’s Pastrami a uniquely memorable place to host a meetup compared to other LA restaurants? Unlike polished, trend-driven eateries, Johnny’s embraces its roots as a classic, no-frills deli with a rough-around-the-edges charm that evokes a bygone era of LA’s culinary scene. This authenticity resonates especially well with groups who appreciate tradition, bold flavors, and a communal dining atmosphere. The smoky, thick-cut pastrami sandwiches and the well-regarded chili fries offer a shared culinary highlight that's difficult to find elsewhere in the city. The affordability and generous servings make it easier for groups to dine without worrying about the cost or leaving hungry. Additionally, the combination of attentive, seasoned service and a storied history in the neighborhood makes Johnny’s Pastrami more than just a meal—it’s an experience that fosters connection, conversation, and shared enjoyment, making it a memorable destination for family gatherings, friend reunions, or casual celebrations alike. Its distinct character and strong food identity ensure that meetups here are talked about long after the plates are cleared.