Number 19

Langer's Deli in Los Angeles is the definitive home of the Number 19, a sandwich that has become a cult classic among pastrami enthusiasts. Created by the deli's founder, this towering creation is built on double-baked rye bread, layered with hand-sliced, double-baked pastrami, melted Swiss cheese, and a tangy, house-made coleslaw, all held together by a Russian dressing that strikes a perfect balance between creamy and sharp. What distinguishes a great Number 19 is the pastrami's texture—smoked, peppery, and impossibly tender, with a fat content that renders into the bread—and the precise ratio of meat to slaw to dressing, ensuring every bite is moist without being soggy. While the sandwich is a Los Angeles institution, variations exist in other Jewish delis across the United States, with some substituting corned beef for pastrami or adding pickles to the slaw. However, the original remains the gold standard, praised by food critics and regulars alike for its architectural integrity and depth of flavor. As noted by Jack's Dining Room, the Number 19 is not just a meal but an experience, one that has earned its place in the pantheon of great American sandwiches.