The Hat — Restaurant in Murrieta

Love Pastrami, so two of us decided to stop by to give the place a try. We ordered the following selections: 2 Pastrami, $8.99 each. The reason why we went there, this Pastrami had low quality compared to better made ones. A brief explanation of Pastrami: pastramă, Bulgarian: ) is a meat product usually made from beef, and sometimes from pork, mutton or turkey. The raw meat is brined, partially dried, seasoned with herbs and spices, then smoked and steamed. In the United States, although beef plate is the traditional cut of meat for making pastrami, it is now common to see it made from beef brisket, beef round, and turkey. Like corned beef, pastrami was originally created as a way to preserve meat before refrigeration. This version lacked the most important aspect: great taste. Amount included was plentiful, the Pastrami cut into little pieces, it covered the Hoagie type bread with no problem. The bread dull and nothing special about it. Plenty of packaged mustard and other assortments to minimize and disguise their mediocre meat. 2.5 Stars. Chili Tamale, $4.88? I will never know what prompted me to order this concoction, must have been the pressure of having others behind on line, but I did and after the initial bite, both of us who decided to thankfully share so as not to eat the whole thing by just one person, were regretting the rash decision. 2 Stars. Fries, forgot exactly how much, but must be said that what came to the table was a generous amount. Very hot in temperature, right off the frying basket, it sealed the deal on any possible hunger. 3.5 Stars. Two small drinks (free refills) and the total came to $33 plus on the unsuspecting credit card. The place was filled to capacity at around 7:30 PM, still brand new and apparently kept clean. Will not be returning as filling as it...

Southern California is famous for originating In-N-Out but The Hat is equally deserving of recognition for its contribution to the Art of Roadside Food. Featuring a truly outstanding pastrami dip sandwich, each item on the extensive menu is made of the very best ingredients and is served in giant proportions. Starting in 1951, at the intersection of 3rd Street and Ford Boulevard in Boyle Heights, Maurice Maretsky and Alvin Annenberg hit on a formula that has stood the test of time. The second location, a three-window, walk-up stand, at the intersection of Valley Boulevard at Garfield Avenue in Alhambra, is still in business. The chain has grown modestly and deliberately to its current 11 locations, with each restaurant following the same, exact formula of excellent food and speedy service. Unfortunately for me, the nearest Hat is over 36-miles from my home, so I get to treat myself only once in a while (usually when I am passing by a location on the way to someplace else). Of course, I recommend the signature masterpiece on a French roll, but I also love the roast beef (either au jus or with dark brown gravy), the chili burger with mustard, or the loaded hot dog. If you cannot make up your mind, get the best of both worlds by ordering the pastrami burger (which may have originated at The Hat). A cautionary note about the fries: The "small" will easily feed four people and you better be serving a platoon if you get the large size. If you cannot already tell, The Hat gets my Highest Recommendation. It is one of the many blessings we enjoy here in...

Visiting The Hat in Murrieta is more than just a meal; it's a journey through cherished memories. Every bite of their succulent pastrami sandwich, perfectly dipped in savory au jus, brings back a flood of nostalgia and joy. The pastrami is always cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, making each sandwich a masterpiece in its own right.

But let's not overlook the classic accompaniments – the steak-cut fries are a crispy delight, served in those iconic brown paper bags. They come with a generous helping of ketchup and Dijon mustard, creating the perfect blend of flavors. And for those who love a bit of heat, the small yellow chilies add just the right amount of spice to elevate each meaty bite.

One of my fondest memories associated with The Hat goes back to when I was seven years old. My grandpa would give my brother and me $20 to buy ourselves a pastrami sandwich and a large chili cheese fry each. Those were simpler times, yet so significant and heartwarming.

Decades have passed, but the quality and taste at The Hat remain unchanged. It's this consistency that makes every visit special. Whether you're a first-timer or a regular, the experience is always top-notch, filled with flavors that resonate with comfort and nostalgia.

Thank you, The Hat, for preserving these timeless flavors and for being a place where memories are both made and revisited. Your pastrami sandwiches aren't just food; they're a piece of history that continues to bring...