Wexler's Honors the Deli Tradition in Santa Monica

Farley Elliott is the Senior Editor at Eater LA and the author of Los Angeles Street Food: A History From Tamaleros to Taco Trucks. He covers restaurants in every form, from breaking news to the culture, people, and history that surrounds LA's dining landscape.

After much Westside clamoring, today is the day for Wexler's Deli in Santa Monica. The longtime Grand Central Market stall has fully expanded to the beach, complete with tables, a classic deli counter, and smoked fish galore.

Today’s the big first day for Wexler’s Deli in Santa Monica. as of 7 a.m. this morning the Jewish deli staple has been up and running, serving a mix of classic deli favorites like pastrami sandwiches and smoked fish, plus new options like specialty coffee and babka rolls made by Nicole Rucker and her team at Cofax.

Wexler’s Deli in Santa Monica is perhaps an even more accurate representation of what co-owners Micah Wexler and Michael Kassar first had in mind when they conceived of Wexler’s years ago. The place is fun but functional, a nod to the throwback counters of Jewish deli youth, but with a mural on the wall reading #smokefisheveryday. The space is still compact and cozy, but offers more room to relax — or grab and snack on the go — than the Grand Central Market original ever could.

The 30-seat Wexler’s Deli was designed by J. Marx Atelier, and sits along Santa Monica Boulevard just across the street from the library. The restaurant’s full menu will be available daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with expanded options for catering to come.

Wexler's Deli 616 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90401. 424-744-8671