Tag: 1920s

the Tam O’Shanter

the Tam O’Shanter, shot with a Graflex Speed Graphic 4×5 on Kodak Tri-X 320

The Tam O’Shanter is the oldest restaurant owned and continually operated by the same family and in its original location in Los Angeles. Since 1922 on Los Feliz Boulevard, the restaurant situated in a Tudor-style roadhouse is still serving up hearty meals in the Scottish-styled Pub.

The menu at the Tam O’Shanter is decidedly Anglo-Scottish, featuring classics like Fish & Chips, as well as Toad in the Hole. However, even though Lawry’s Prime Rib is it’s own restaurant, all Lawry’s Restaurants owe the Tam for their start. So naturally the Sunset Diner enjoyed a lovely prime rib on their visit.

the Tam O’Shanter California Cut Prime Rib served with Mash, Gravy, Yorkshire Pudding, and Creamed Spinach (Photo curtesy of Josh Callahan)

The Tudor-styled roadhouse is eclectically appointed in a Scottish motif with large fireplaces in most dinning rooms and exposed wood beams throughout. There is a large bar with an impressive collection of single malt Scotch Whisky. At midday the bar doubles as a lunch counter. This long established restaurant is piece of LA history and a true experience in dinning.

Restaurant Quick Info:

Greenblatt’s Delicatessen

Greenblatt’s Delicatessen, shot with a Graflex Speed Graphic 4×5 on Kodak Tri-X 320

Greenblatt’s Deli is a gem off of Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, Calif. It is a great spot to grab a sandwich or other quick bite. However, the menu is much more extensive at this restaurant established in 1926.

Famous for their pastrami sandwiches, one will also find a number of chicken and turkey plates with an extensive selection of sides, soups, and desserts. The Sunset Diner had a number “3” on the menu, a classic pastrami with Swiss on rye with coleslaw. The sandwich was amazing, but a pleasant surprise was the pecan pie for dessert.

The #3 Pastrami with Swiss Cheese, Cole Slaw & Russian Dressing

The main level of the restaurant hosts a deli counter, wine shop, and some wood booths with wait service. Above the main level is a semi-mezzanine with more seating with wait service and stained glass to the front. One will be dining in Hollywood history.

Restaurant Quick Info:

  • Opened: 1926
  • Style: Jewish-American, New York Deli-Style 
  • Location: 8017 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood (Los Angeles), Calif 90046
  • Website: http://www.greenblattsdeli.com/
  • Cost: $ to $$