Instead of being located in a happening strip mall, the latest sandwich sensation in Los Angeles can be found in an industrial area of Santa Clarita, nearby a collection of warehouses.
Chef James Dalton, previously the personal chef for Dodgers player Mookie Betts, quietly launched the restaurant, Table 504. Just last week, it started gaining attention.
The star of the menu is the pastrami sandwich, which, true to its name, requires a full 12 days of preparation. This includes soaking the bread in brine for 10 days followed by an eight-hour smoking process in-store.
Local patrons are also enthusiastic about the 504 Italian, a $20 delight packed with prosciutto, imported mortadella, sweet soppressata, burrata, red wine vinaigrette, house-made pepper spread, all served on freshly made focaccia.
Dalton’s background sets him apart from typical sandwich makers. Originally from Florida, he has spent 26 years in the hospitality sector and became Betts’ private chef when the MLB star moved from Boston to Los Angeles.
After a lengthy professional partnership, Dalton and Betts developed the Table 504 brand.
The restaurant’s launch has been described as “hidden in an industrial area behind a public warehouse,” with a minimalist aesthetic that feels more upscale than a typical lunch spot in a warehouse district.
Betts, who has a stellar record as an active player, is expected to make a comeback for the Dodgers after dealing with an oblique strain that sidelined him during a recent game.
His return seems timely, especially since the Dodgers’ offense has struggled in recent weeks. Even though Betts has had a rough start to the season, batting only .179 over eight games, his presence remains crucial for team balance.
