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CRIME IN LA - Langer's Deli, a cherished Los Angeles institution renowned for its legendary pastrami sandwiches, is confronting the possibility of closing its doors, driven by the mounting challenges of operating in a neighborhood plagued by crime and neglect. Established in 1947, Langer's has long been a fixture in the Westlake area, known for serving what former Los Angeles Times restaurant critic Jonathan Gold once declared "the best pastrami sandwich in America."
However, since 2020, Langer's business has declined by a third, a downturn exacerbated by increasing crime and the proliferation of unregulated street vendors who crowd the sidewalks and park in red zones for hours without fear of enforcement. Norm Langer, the deli's owner and son of its founder, expressed his frustration to Times columnist Steve Lopez, saying he is weary of repeatedly asking city officials to clean up the area.
Langer’s concerns go beyond the immediate safety of his employees and customers. He longs for a broader revitalization of MacArthur Park, advocating for improved public safety measures such as better lighting, a greater police presence, and enhanced social services. "I want the city to focus on public safety and make MacArthur Park accessible to local residents," Langer emphasized, underscoring the importance of making the area safer and more welcoming for everyone.
In response to the challenges facing the area, city officials proposed an ambitious plan in June to close off a section of Wilshire Boulevard that cuts through MacArthur Park, aiming to eliminate vehicle traffic and encourage walkability. The initiative, introduced by LA City Council member Eunisses Hernandez, seeks to reconnect the two halves of the park and provide support for the park's unhoused residents by addressing public safety concerns and offering overdose prevention services.
Despite these efforts, the uncertainty surrounding Langer's Deli reflects a broader crisis faced by many small businesses in areas where rising crime and inadequate public services threaten their survival. For now, Langer's—a treasured landmark with a rich history—stands at a crossroads, its future tied to the city's ability to address the challenges of public safety and urban renewal in one of LA's most iconic neighborhoods.
