Good fresh pastrami. Good service. High price. Not a lot of flavor. Not the pastrami I was looking for. If you are from LA and expecting a Steven's pastrami or Johnnys pastrami this ain't it. Lol. If you know and Steven's there is no match read more

The only place to go for pastrami, but it would be nice to have a greater variety of breads.

Whenever I visit LA I go out of my way to come here. One serving of pastrami fries is around $16 and enough for 2-3 people depending on your appetite! One order holds a bed of fries topped with chili, cheese and pastrami shavings. read more

The Hat - Pastrami fries - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

The Hat is located in East LA Across the street from East Los Angeles City College. The inside is a like a blast to the 70s complete with wood panels, green plants hanging and old photographs. The scent of beef and french fries lingers attaching itself to my clothing. The menu is simple of course I had to try the Pastrami dip, I mean its in the name. I told the woman at at the register that this was my first time and was looking for a recommendation. She answered "we dont have combos" and exhaled as though she was preparing herself to dive into the pacific ocean. Roast beef ill take the roast beef. She rung me up still holding her breath only to be interupted by my credit card. The sandwich was served on a deflated french roll with two slices of roast beef wrapped on a paper and placed in a double paper bag. Its a bit wasteful. The sandwich was sad and although It as bathed in a sauce, it was still bland. Looking around many people ordered fries topped with pastrami, perhaps thats a better choice. Soft drinks are $3.19 a bit steep for a coca cola the sandwich $10.79 If youre jn the area perhaps the fries are worth a try, but I dont think Id come back read more

The Hat - The Menu at The Hat. - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

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Small parking lot so it's a great idea if you're in the mood for pastrami or roast beef dip sandwiches, get there early so you get a parking space. There's also a parking security guard walking around, nice. I ordered a pastrami sandwich and it was delicious. Not a stringy or fatty pastrami sandwich. One of the best around. lol I drove from Gardena just for this pastrami sandwich. The chili cheese fries was enormous. I cut out a quarter of it and there was still a lot leftover. I'll post a picture of that. Service was fast and friendly. I would recommend studying the menu so you don't look like an amateur when ordering. People must be regulars here because they order a bunch of things that aren't on the menu. Things like chili cheese pastrami burger? What? Chili cheese pastrami fries? Like it! read more

The Hat - Here is the current menu as of 2/17/17 - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

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Love their perfectly seasoned onion rings and cooked to a perfect crisp. The pastrami sandwich is always my to to.

I have been coming to this location since I was a child and the quality has not changed. I usually get my food to go (tip: call in bc they get busy!!), but have ordered in as well. The restaurant is clean and staff is friendly. This is a staple for friends returning to the area or anyone visiting LA for the first time. My faves: -chili cheese fries with gravy on the side -roast beef sandwich with gravy -pastrami sandwich with gravy -chili cheese fries with onions and pastrami Ugh, writing this is making me super hungry. read more

Ok, I get everyone standing outside to wait to order due to COVID-19. But to wait for almost 20 minutes to just get in and order??? I saw the reason why the most young staff was seriously disorganized with one register open. The typical pastrami was another hot mess as the bread actually disintegrated into my hands. It was disgusting. Also, when you order fries, PLEASE DO NOT serve half-cooked 100% limp fries. They are inedible! Lastly, putting so much Thousand Island mix on the burgers is not needed. It overwhelms the burger, and we should have just stayed home and made it ourselves as it would have been much better. There was a lack of care, rigor, structure, and an overall sense of feeling of getting out as fast as possible losing all sight of the quality of the food. Which in this case, there was zero quality! read more

I remembered this place from when I used to work sometimes in LA. I heard it wasn't as good as I remembered. Whoever told me that was wrong. It is still awesome. Great pastrami sandwiches and pastrami fries. Huge portions. Great buns. Look forward to going back on my next so cal trip read more

This location compared to the one in Alhambra is mid unfortunately. The service was terrible which was unusual because I'd never experienced that at the other location and it literally took so long for the food to come out that everyone was complaining. read more

This spot is my go-to spot for their bomb pastrami chili cheese fries, crispy ontion rings, and juicy pastrami sandwich w/ the dip. I'm so glad that my dad's coworker had recommended this spot for us to try out. The flavors of the pastrami are just 100% "mwah" and if you need some comfort food this is the place to go. read more

The Hat - Try chili cheese fries with pastrami on top of some onion rings - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

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All I have to say about this place is that the food is greasy, fattening, not healthy and utterly delicious! I buy the chili cheese fries with pastrami and pray I don't get a heart attack as I gobble down all of it within two days. Yes, I eat it for two days on my own without sharing cuz that what I do when I go the The Hat. I usually don't let anyone know and keep it as a secret because I'm known to be a healthy eater. However, there are times when you have to treat yourself and this is mine. I enjoy picking up the salty, cheesy, chili moistened fries with my fingers and sometimes a fork as I gobble them up. It's the best cheat meal ever and I will always sneak over and order once every few months. True, I have to add more cardio in my weekly routine, but it's so worth it! read more

It has gone downhill. The chili cheese fries were dry and hard and the pastrami tasted old. We asked for extra cheese and paid for it and there was barely any. Cashier was nice but lady who gave us our food was rude. read more

The chili burger was good! I'd recommend it if you're craving one. It's only 5.99 so not bad for a quick bite! read more

The Hat - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

Wow my life has been forever changed by The Hat!!! I've always loved chili, cheese, fries, and pastrami and never knew a place could put them all together so perfectly! We tried the chili cheese fries and added pastrami and it's honestly one of the best things I've ever eaten! The fries are perfectly crispy (pro-tip: order them extra crispy so they stay xxxtra crunchy for your drive home/as you're munching away) and the meat is mouthwateringly delicious. The pastrami is the perfect balance of lean and fatty and salty and chili is sooo smooth and flavorful! The whole thing is the perfect especially when you share with someone else! We brought it home to watch basketball with some beers and it was perfect! Service is fast and friendly, but the parking lot is a little on the small side! Would definitely recommend and I'm so excited to go back and try more of the menu!! read more

Great burgers at a great price!!!! The service is always great and the dine in area is always clean!!

Awesome service!! I placed an online order and it was ready when we came to pick it up. We still had to wait in line to pay, which was a little annoying since I wanted to just get in and out and not be around people.(online pay and pickup through the outdoor sliding window would be awesome!!) There was also a delay because their card machine was down, which wasn't an issue for me because we paid cash. What impressed me was the employees attitude, I could tell that the employees were a little flustered trying to troubleshoot the issue with the card machine, and customers getting upset with them because they couldn't take payments by card, but they remained friendly and professional throughout the ordeal. The people preparing the orders were nice too. Will definitely be returning to this location. read more

Best Pastrami Sandwichwes in L.A.! SITREP My god! If Godzilla were a sandwich, he'd be served piping hot with all the fixens here! *jesus* take a look at this monster!: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/the-hat-monterey-park?select=JITDEPbL8Ta13L3TRaF2Nw&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w#JITDEPbL8Ta13L3TRaF2Nw THE SETUP The Hat is THE place, bar none, where you need to come to get your Pastrami Sandwich fix! My colleague Veronica and I stopped in after we set up our training-site in Monterey Park, and we were just blown away by the sandwich offerings! Look at my face! That's my *BLOWN AWAY* Face! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/the-hat-monterey-park?select=JITDEPbL8Ta13L3TRaF2Nw&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w#9za4YPHhi6WHz8OMuggYHw WET FRIES! The sandwiches are amazing, but then the fries are stupendous as well! Heart-clogging with the gravy, the chili, whatever you put on top of them, they are pretty yummy! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/the-hat-monterey-park?select=JITDEPbL8Ta13L3TRaF2Nw&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w#Rta-_ALLo7g9xTUi23pmRw JALAPENOS! Being in East L.A., The Hat is very big on the condiments that the locals also enjoy, and so you will see plenty of hot sauces and jalapeno dispensers. YUM. THE LOWDOWN The best pastrami sandwich in L.A., or really, ANYWHERE! read more

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They do it simple and do it well. I had a pastrami dip and horchata (yum!) to drink. The perfectly done pastrami chopped into bite-sized pieces with pickles and mustard is nothing fancy but it's all that is necessary for a fantastic pastrami sandwich. Order at the register and pick up at the other end of the counter, fast food style. This place was very busy when I visited and once a table opened up we jumped on it but had to clean it ourselves as the dining area wasn't being attended to. Our order came up quickly and the people behind the counter, while not exactly oozing warm fuzziness, were efficient. Which is all you care about when you want one of those delicious pastrami sandwiches in your mouth ASAP! read more

The Hat - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

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I'm a fan of pastrami but I truly didn't think it was amazing here. The chili cheese fries with pickles and tomatoes were under seasoned to me. The pastrami dip was decent but that's just about it, and it was almost lacking in flavor as well. My food came out in under two minutes - I'm not sure whether to be grateful about the quick service or whether to question it. read more

The Hat - Chili cheese fries with tomatoes and pickles and the pastrami dip - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

Love the pastrami from this place. Fries are also good and they have cherry soda, which is hard to find in fountain drinks. Greasy comfort food for sure. read more

This is a legit Avocado Sandwich! http://bit.ly/28U1s2k ...yes, I'm gonna be that Yelper that talks about an Avocado Sandwich at a place known for their pastrami. Get over it! ;P I only end up at The Hat because the Meateater BF drags me to one whenever we are near any location. In the past, he's been able to distract me with veggie options nearby. But this Monterey Park location doesn't really have many neighboring alternatives. Which is why I was forced to take a closer look at The Hat's menu. The Avocado Sandwich doesn't come with cheese but I requested they nix the mayo. It also comes on your choice of bread. Rye is my fave! Besides the ABUNDANT amount of avocado, it also comes with lettuce and tomato. As an avocado fan, I'm glad that The Hat isn't stingy about the portion size! It was so big that I was only able to eat half :) read more

The Hat - Avocado Sandwich on rye - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

On my birthday I shall review a place that is dear to my heart. The Hat. Deep down I'm not bougie, I just like simple eats such as The Hat. A place that serves up pastrami so good that it's made me cry on occasion. You come here for the pastrami.. anything with pastrami. What do I get? The Pastrami Dip. A sandwich packed with so much pastrami that it spills out on every side. It's impossible to fit all the pastrami in, it's like me trying to squeeze into a child's pants - not happening. And who doesn't love excess pastrami? Who?! There is nothing better than finishing up your sandwich and then having tons of pastrami leftover to clean up! Nothing!!!! In case you are brave enough or brought along some backup - you can order up some fries to go with your dip. Fries, Onion Rings, Fries with Gravy, Chili Cheese Fries, but beware cause these portions are ginormous. I am talking not be able to finish with 2-3 people helping you big. The Chili Cheese Fries on it's own if you got nothing else would be difficult to finish with help. The Fries and Onion Rings are enough to feed a family of four (slightly exaggerated). I like getting Gravy Fries but I don't like them dumping gravy all over the fries cause they get soggy. I ask them for extra crispy fries (so they are in the fryer a bit longer) then I ask for the gravy on the side so I can just dip the fries in as I eat. In case you were feeling adventurous I would recommend the Pastrami Burger. It's good cause there's pastrami on it.. Duh. Parking here is kind of a pain and space is pretty limited, but service is fast and friendly as they are at all Hat locations. read more

The Hat - Chili Cheese Fries - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

I'm not much of a pastrami lover, but The Hat made me like it a little more. It was the perfect midnight snack after a long day. You can never go wrong with chili cheese fries, but how about going that extra mile and adding pastrami as a topping? Trust me. If you love all of these components, they go well with one another. Not to mention, it is the biggest portion ever. If you get this, you'll have leftovers for days. I mean, you should be able to for around $12. They put it in a little carton and smother it with extra fries and all the good stuff on top of a drink carton holder. Pretty innovative, clever, and different. It's pretty hilarious, but it works! Honestly, I feel like there's a pound of pastrami toppled on top of the fries, but I have no complaints. This is definitely capable of being shared by 2-3 people. My sister and her boyfriend shared the pastrami dip (a sandwich) and it came with the perfect dipping sauce. It reminded me of the sauce you use for roast beef. The aesthetic vibe is very 70s to me, but I can dig it. I think this place is a must if you love pastrami! It's open pretty late, until 1AM! The food is good, the workers are friendly, and the place is huge! read more

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The pastrami sandwiches ($11) are delicious. The meat is flavorful, the bun is soft, and, together, it just melts in your mouth. I love that they don't skimp on the pastrami. Add a little mustard, and it hits the spot! There was no wait to order around noon, and my meal was ready within 5 minutes. Bonus points for the small parking lot. read more

Delicious food! I had the pastrami chili fries. Friendly staff and family environment! I would come back!

Good pastrami I got the chili cheese fries with pastrami and Beverly not to salty for me read more

Pretty tasty pastrami sandwich. I like that they dip the bread in the au jus sauce. Makes it super flavorful! Definitely opt for the onion rings. Portion size is plenty. I got a large to share and it was more than enough. I will be back! They have following covid guidelines, have floor marking to aid in social distancing. All employees masked, and if I recall correctly there is a limit to how many people can be in at once. read more

If you grew up in the SGV, then chances are The Hat was/is on the top of your list if you wanted a burger or sandwich. While the original Hat was on 3rd and Ford, most of us have strong attachments to the Alhambra and MPK locations.Institutions. Dad took me to The Hat for as long as I can remember. He would order the chicken salad sandwich, I'd get the cheeseburger, split an order of fries and a cherry soda. I never tried the pastrami, so no judgment there. I stick with what works: Fries well done, burger, onion rings, and side of gravy. Unlimited condiments, peppers, and utensils take it over the top. Yes, parking is horrible, but it's part of the package. It really does get bad at lunch time. Upside, you can order your food to-go to make your experience more efficient. Give them 10 minutes and instant lunch! Added plus: Load up on the endless amount of condiments and peppers. Worth the trip alone! read more

The Hat - Can't decide? Get the cheeseburger and dog. - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

Parking is a challenge and it's tough getting a seat here, however, the place is worth a visit if you're craving a sandwich or a burger. The pastrami sandwich is tasty and packed with lots of meat, but I really like their cheeseburgers and hot dogs. Simple stuff but the quality is terrific. A small order of fries is actually large enough for two (I poured out a full plate and I still had half a bag left) and tastes great with a side of gravy. Free drink refills...woo hoo! read more

The Hat - Hot dog, root beer and fries with gravy - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

It has been a while since I have had The Hat. Why did I wait so long to come back?? I had the pastrami sandwich and pastrami chili cheese fries both to share because no one is able to finish either by themselves. The pastrami is very fresh and the sandwich is really good. The fries are fresh and the added toppings of cheese, chili, and pastrami make it a very generous portion of a meal. I'm salivating again! The dining area is fairly small, but the staff is very friendly. I'd love to come back here again. read more

The food here is delicious! I've had The Hat before but wasn't feelin' it then but decided to give them another shot years later. The BBQ pastrami and onion rings were hella bomb. I would come back just solely for the onion rings. Get the gravy on the side for your onion rings, it will be worth it. read more

Never disappoints!! A little pricey but if you know that when you walk in you'll be okay. You have to remember...it "the hat"

I don't usually get the pastrami here but I love the chili cheese fries! So good when it's piping hot. I also ordered a burger and a soda to go. The service is quick and food is always on point. I don't remember a time when I ever had problems with my order at this location or any of the other ones that I go to. Overall, best chili cheese fries ever! read more

You have to try their chili cheese fries. Their so yummy, and one order is enough for two people. This place does not disappoint. The service is good. read more

So obviously this is not the place to go if you're on a diet - not even a see-food diet, it's that heavy. First time at this particular location and liked that they had indoor seating as opposed to the Alhambra one, but parking lot was a little small. Most of us had to park on the residential street a walk away. I wanted to keep it slightly healthy so I opted for a turkey burger this time around and split a side of chili cheese fries. The turkey burger was actually pretty good and juicy, but a little small...and the order took forever to come out! The five people who ordered after me got their burgers before I did for some reason. The chili cheese fries will do nasty things to you. I don't want to talk about it! But if I were to make a recommendation, I would suggest you get the gravy fries instead. Overall, a solid place to get your burger/sandwich fix...just not a place I can frequent. And the wait was a bummer this time too. read more

The Hat - Condiments much? - Sandwiches Near Me - Monterey Park, California

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Best pastrami chili cheese fries would recommend if your looking for a big meal. I would also recommend the chili cheese burger with avocado it's worth the extra price read more

Service sucks, you must speak Spanish in order to ask for condiments. Food was ok at best, chili fries had one spoon of chili beans and a bunch of cheese. Backwards, chili beans first, then cheese, then chili beans again. Save your cash. Go elsewhere, even the one in Monterey Park is 90% much better. read more

The chili cheese fries with pastrami are simply tok good to pass. It's a huge portion topped with delicious thinly sliced pastrami. The place is clean and staff is nice. read more

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First time going there! A friend recommended several options to me, but I love hot dogs! So I ordered a hot dog with chili, onion, tomatoes, and pickles. The Winnie had so much beef flavor, it was so tasty! Chili had a balanced flavor, not too much beef flavor. Overall, I would order the hot dog again! I gave it a 4 because their online ordering does not allow you to pay, so when you get to the restaurant, there's no clear directions that you have to get in line to pay for your food first and then you pick it up. A person before me asked if we needed to get in line, but the person only spoke Spanish and didn't answer. I then proceeded to ask in Spanish and she then told me to get in line to pay for the food. read more