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FAIRFAX DISTRICT, LOS ANGELES () — Canter’s Deli celebrated its 95th anniversary on Tuesday by offering 95-cent pastrami sandwiches, drawing hundreds of customers eager to take advantage of a deal decades in the making.
The promotion ran from 6 p.m. to midnight, with the sandwiches offered at a fraction of their usual $22 price.
Inside the Fairfax District deli, employees worked continuously to prepare and serve the discounted sandwiches as customers lined up throughout the day and into the evening.
AIR7 video showed loyal patrons camped outside for hours, with a line stretching down the sidewalk and past several neighboring businesses.
“It’s a special moment for Canter’s Deli,” owner Mark Canter said. “You take a bite, you’re kind of hooked.”
Canter inherited the business from his grandfather. It’s considered one of the oldest sandwich delis in America.
“Canter’s is a place where grandkids grow up and bring their grandkids,” Canter said. “I’ve seen people in their late 80s tell me they had their first birthday party here.”
Photos displayed throughout the deli highlight its long history on Fairfax Avenue.
The diner still looks classic, having stood the test of time for nine decades.
It has remained a fixture in Los Angeles through major historical events, from the Great Depression to the COVID-19 pandemic.
After dark, the line still wrapped around the block, with customers waiting outside for hours.
Among them was Judy Diamond of Northridge, who said she waited three hours to become the first customer to receive the discounted sandwich.
“It’s fun, and it’s part of the history of Los Angeles. I’m 84 years old. Why not celebrate with something that’s been here longer than I have?” Diamond said.
She credited the deli’s longevity to its consistency.
“It’s homemade, and it’s made with love. The family has been doing it the same way forever,” Diamond said.
Another customer, Irene Eason of Santa Monica, wore a custom-made Canter’s shirt while waiting in line.
“I got this five years ago. Every time I come to Canter’s, I wear it,” she said. “The history, the warmth, the community — it’s just a good feeling to be here.”
Gilbert Fajardo, who traveled from the San Fernando Valley, said the trip was worthwhile despite spending more on gas than on his sandwich.
“It’s a reason they’ve been here for 95 years. You have to try it,” Fajardo said, laughing as he licked his fingers.
Looking beyond the anniversary celebration, Canter said part of the deli’s space is also available for customers to rent for special events.
“I’ve been doing this all my life, and I will see it through as much as I can,” he said.
He also expressed hope that future generations of his family will continue operating the business and keep it connected to the community for many years to come.
“I have other family and my own children, so we’ll see what they can do with it,” Canter said.
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