Canter's Deli in Los Angeles, California

This is a pretty old school place, but is an institution here in LA (419 North Fairfax Avenue, 323-651-2030). Indeed, the last time I was here was maybe 25 years ago, and I'm not sure if much has changed. Either way, there is a huuuuge but dimly lit dining area with lots of booths and old photos on the wall, as well as a big laminated menu featuring everything from pastrami sandwiches to three-egg omelettes.

I wanted a fish plate, and went for that cheapest whitefish above. In retrospect, I should have paid more for the sable instead, as the flesh in this one was so mild that it was forgettable aside from the thick skin. It was still cool to come to this place though; I loved how the corned beef came with a gigantic head of tenderly stewed cabbage. The pickles were decent too, even if I still prefer delis in New York.