15 Chain Restaurants Known For Their Pastrami Sandwiches

Craving that peppery, smoky bite that hits like a hug? Pastrami sandwiches are the bold, messy heroes of the deli world, and plenty of chains serve them in seriously satisfying ways.

From melt-in-your-mouth hot stacks to toasted, drippy builds that demand extra napkins, these spots keep the cravings alive. Here are 15 chain restaurants where you can chase that pastrami fix with confidence and a big appetite.

1. The Hat

The Hat is pure Southern California comfort, built around hot pastrami that lands with serious heft. You get that peppery crust, tender bite, and just enough fat to feel indulgent without going overboard.

Pair it with chili cheese fries and you will need a recovery walk.

Expect counter service, big portions, and no-nonsense energy. The pastrami stacks tall, spills out of the roll, and begs for mustard.

If you want extra texture, add pickles or a side of peppers, then settle in for a glorious mess.

2. John’s Incredible Pizza

John’s Incredible Pizza is better known for games and buffets, but the pastrami can surprise you. It leans savory and heavy, exactly what you want after a round of rides and ticket sprees.

Grab a seat, build your plate, and let that smoky meat anchor the meal.

Expect family-friendly chaos and big flavors. The sandwich skews simple, often melty and comforting, with a soft roll that soaks up juices.

It is not a classic deli, but it satisfies when you need something reliable and bold.

3. Jason’s Deli

Jason’s Deli nails the dependable deli experience, and their pastrami plays the hits. Expect thin slices, rye bread, and a clean mustard snap that lets the meat shine.

It is a go-to for a balanced, classic build that feels fresh yet familiar.

Customization is easy, so add Swiss, slaw, or Russian dressing when the mood hits. Portion sizes are satisfying without being overwhelming.

You get fast service, quality ingredients, and a sandwich that delivers every time without drama.

4. Arby’s

Arby’s is not a deli, but when pastrami-style sandwiches appear, fans rush in. The builds often include melted cheese, tangy mustard, and a toasted bun that stands up to the juices.

It is indulgent fast food with just enough smokiness to scratch the deli itch.

Keep an eye on limited-time releases, because availability can come and go. When you see it, grab it hot, add extra pickles, and enjoy the salty-sweet balance.

It is a craveable detour from their usual roast beef lineup.

5. Jersey Mike’s Subs

Jersey Mike’s is famous for cold subs, but the hot pastrami option hits differently. The meat gets warm, juicy, and seasoned, especially when you go Mike’s Way plus mustard.

Toss on grilled onions and melted provolone for a richer, stick-to-your-ribs sandwich.

The fresh bread holds together under serious heat, and the team usually nails the balance of meat to toppings. Customize the crunch with pickles or banana peppers.

When pastrami cravings strike, this is a reliable stop with big flavor.

6. Firehouse Subs

Firehouse Subs thrives on hot, melty builds, and pastrami fits right in. Expect steam-kissed bread, gooey cheese, and a generous layer of meat that unfolds with each bite.

The mustard tang and pickles provide lift, keeping everything from feeling too heavy.

Ask for extra heat with peppers or a splash of their sauces. The texture stays tender and cohesive, making it easy to finish the whole sub.

It is a comfort-forward take that still respects deli roots while leaning into warmth.

7. Which Wich

Which Wich lets you design your pastrami dream with precision. Choose bread, cheese, heat level, and crunchy extras, then watch it come together fast.

The pastrami brings pepper and smoke, while toppings like slaw or pickled jalapeños add texture and brightness.

Toasted bread helps handle the juices without falling apart. You control the richness by dialing in sauces and portions.

It feels personal and fun, especially when you are craving something bold yet customizable. Build it your way and enjoy the payoff.

8. Togos

Togos is a West Coast staple where pastrami gets stacked high. The thin slices layer beautifully, creating a tender, juicy chew that feels classic.

Mustard brings acidity, and the bread stays sturdy even when loaded to the brim.

Order a bigger size and commit to the full experience. Add Swiss or pepperoncini for extra character, or keep it simple and let the meat lead.

It is a go-to when you want generous portions without sacrificing balance or freshness.

9. Lenny’s Grill & Subs

Lenny’s Grill & Subs flies a little under the radar, but their hot pastrami deserves attention. The sandwiches lean hearty, with melted cheese and often grilled onions to deepen flavor.

It is a deli-style experience without pretense, just dependable, tasty bites.

The rolls are soft and supportive, making big builds easy to handle. Add spicy pickles for contrast, then settle into that satisfying meat-forward rhythm.

It is the kind of sub that makes lunch feel like an occasion.

10. Capriotti’s

Capriotti’s is known for The Bobbie, but their pastrami builds bring real deli energy. Expect well-seasoned meat, soft bread with chew, and options like slaw for sweet-crunch balance.

It is a bold, satisfying sandwich that rewards a little customization.

Go hot with melted provolone and a hit of mustard or Russian dressing. The textures land just right, especially when you add pickles or peppers.

It is a reliable fix when you want something richer than turkey but still neatly constructed.

11. Schlotzsky’s

Schlotzsky’s brings a unique bread texture that complements pastrami beautifully. The warm, slightly tangy loaf hugs the meat and melts cheese right into the crumb.

You get deli depth with a bakery twist, especially with mustard or zesty dressing.

Add crunch with pickles and a little heat from peppers. The balance of airy and hearty makes each bite feel composed.

It is a great option when you want a pastrami sandwich that feels both familiar and distinctly Schlotzsky’s.

12. Denny’s

Denny’s might surprise you with a legit diner-style pastrami when available. Think rye, melted Swiss, and mustard, with a pickle spear standing by.

It hits those nostalgic notes that make a late-night meal feel extra cozy.

Menus vary, so check your location. When it appears, order it hot and ask for extra pickles for crunch.

It is hearty, straightforward, and exactly the comfort you want when the craving hits at odd hours.

13. IHOP

IHOP is more than pancakes when lunch hours roll in. Some locations run diner-style sandwiches, and pastrami shows up as a comforting heavy hitter.

Rye, Swiss, and mustard keep it classic, while the relaxed vibe lets you linger.

It is a fun twist to order a pastrami sandwich alongside hash browns or pancakes. Menus vary, so ask what is hot.

When available, it is simple, satisfying, and a great break from the usual breakfast routine.

14. Langer’s Deli

Langer’s Deli is legendary, and even with limited locations, it belongs on any pastrami list. The hand-cut slices are juicy, smoky, and impossibly tender, stacked on rye that crackles.

Mustard snaps, and every bite reminds you why people line up.

It feels like a masterclass in balance, from spice to fat to bread texture. If you count multi-location operations, it qualifies.

Go hungry, bring napkins, and prepare to compare every other pastrami against this benchmark.

15. Pick Up Stix

Pick Up Stix is not a traditional pastrami stop, but location-dependent offerings and similar concepts sometimes dabble. Think fusion ideas where smoky meat meets sweet-savory sauces or crisp slaw.

When you spot it, expect bold flavor that plays with texture and heat.

Availability varies widely, so ask or watch local promos. It is more novelty than staple, but the results can be craveable.

If you are adventurous, this is where pastrami gets a fun, unexpected twist.