The Los Angeles Post
California & Local U.S. World Business Lifestyle
Today: January 25, 2025
Today: January 25, 2025

Fentanyl and crime push famous LA deli to close after 76 years

Fentanyl and crime push famous LA deli  to close after 76 years
September 06, 2024
Sirisha Dinavahi - LA Post

Iconic Los Angeles eatery Langer's Delicatessen-Restaurant faces potential closure after more than seven decades, as owner Norm Langer grapples with escalating crime and homelessness in the MacArthur Park area.

Langer cited safety concerns as the primary reason for considering shutting down the establishment. "It's not safe," Langer said. "It's too many needles. Too much fentanyl. Too many drugs." His comments highlight the growing challenges businesses face in areas grappling with urban decay and social issues.

Various issues, including violence and sanitation problems, have plagued the restaurant's vicinity. Langer described scenes of public indecency and drug use occurring near the eatery. "People walking around here taking their clothes off, walking around naked. You know it's nuts. I don't want to spoil anybody's appetite, but you've got a problem with defecation on sidewalks, for somebody was strung out on drugs. There's something. They're trying to make a score on fentanyl. They're passed out on the sidewalk, and the city is lame and doing something about it," Langar said. 

If Langer's shuts down, it'll be the end of a 76-year run. Norm's dad, Al, opened the place back in 1947. Now, it's an L.A. staple. For years, everyone from movie stars to regular Joes have enjoyed the food at Langer's. It's part of L.A.'s food scene.

Langer wants better street lights, regular garbage pickup, and street vendors gone. He's at his wit's end, wondering why he's still fighting this uphill battle. He's just asking for the basics to keep his place safe and clean for folks. "Why am I pushing this cart uphill?" he said.

FOX 11 tried to get Councilwoman Hernandez's take but was unavailable for comment when the news went to print. 

Recent incidents in the area have further exacerbated concerns. Langer mentioned a homicide investigation from a couple of months ago, where a homeless individual reportedly dragged a dead body into the lake at MacArthur Park. 

The deli's possible demise shows how L.A. is struggling with crime and homelessness and keeping longtime businesses afloat.

Related

News|Local

Hughes Fire in Castaic Lake areas explodes to over 8,000 acres

A fast-moving brush fire raced across thousands of acres of thick vegetation near Castaic Lake Wednesday, forcing mandatory evacuations in the lake area and into the heart of Castaic, with warnings stretching toward Santa Clarita and reaching the Ventura County line. The Hughes Fire was reported at about 11 a.m. Wednesday in a remote area east of the lake, according to Cal Fire. Aided by gusting Santa Ana winds and thick, dry vegetation, the fire quickly gobbled up 500 acres of brush, but within a few hours, it had reached 8,096 acres. The winds and dry terrain led to rampant

Hughes Fire in Castaic Lake areas explodes to over 8,000 acres
Lifestyle|Local

Los Angeles Valentine's Day guide maps out romantic adventures

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Los Angeles is the perfect place to create lasting memories. From breathtaking views to delicious meals and unique experiences, the city offers plenty of options for a romantic day or evening. Whether people are looking for something relaxing or a little more adventurous, here are some of the best date ideas in L.A. for celebrating Valentine’s Day, complete with details on where to go, what to expect, and how much people can expect to spend. 1. A Romantic Sunset at Griffith Observatory A visit to Griffith Observatory is one of the most iconic

Los Angeles Valentine's Day guide maps out romantic adventures
US|Business|Entertainment|Local|News|Political|Travel

Council approves Hilton Universal City Hotel project

The Los Angeles City Council Tuesday approved plans to expand Hilton Universal City Hotel with the construction of a 18-story building connecting to the main property and providing more amenities to guests.

Council approves Hilton Universal City Hotel project
US|Celebrity|Crime|Entertainment|Local|News

Rapper A$AP Rocky Rejects Plea Deal Shortly Before Trial Begins

Rapper A$AP Rocky rejected a plea deal Tuesday that would have included 180 days in jail. The development came shortly before jury selection began in his trial on assault charges stemming from allegations that he pulled a gun on a hip hop artist during an altercation in Hollywood and then fired at him in a separate confrontation soon after.

Rapper A$AP Rocky Rejects Plea Deal Shortly Before Trial Begins
Share This

Popular

Environment|Local

Is the Air Quality Index reliable after wildfires in L.A.?

Is the Air Quality Index reliable after wildfires in L.A.?
US|Americas|Economy|Election|Local|News|Political|WrittenByLAPost

L.A. agencies attempt to adapt to immigration crackdown

L.A. agencies attempt to adapt to immigration crackdown
News|Local

Hughes Fire evacuations scaled back in Castaic Lake area

Hughes Fire evacuations scaled back in Castaic Lake area
Local|News

Palisades Fire 72% contained; red flag warning in effect

Palisades Fire 72% contained; red flag warning in effect