The Journey to Someplace Special

A few weeks ago, I got the opportunity to sit down with Suzee Markowitz, the manager of Factors Famous Deli in Los Angeles. She started working there at just 14 years old and has been part of the restaurant’s story ever since. 52 years and counting! I’m just starting out in this world, and am trying to learn what it really takes to create a place people love. Talking to Suzee reminded me that the core of any great restaurant isn’t flash, it’s humanity. Factors is entrenched in its community, with loyal customers and a strong identity. 

Suzee said to me that over the years, Factors had become a home away from home for many people in the surrounding community, and she’s right. When my grandmother was alive, my family ate brunch at Factors every Sunday. I have tons of fond memories there, us all in our favorite booth, everyone ordering their usual. Now I even own a hat with their logo plastered across the front.

I asked Suzee if there was ever a moment that made her think, “This is what it’s all about,” and she didn’t hesitate. She spoke about some of the people she’s met through the restaurant. She told me that when she’s out and about in the neighborhood, she almost always sees a familiar, friendly face. Whether it be a regular, a friend, or coworker, they’ll stop and chat on the sidewalk. People often thank her for what she does, ask how she’s doing, and just in general show appreciation. Suzee joked that some of them see her on the street and instantly feel hungry! Not because she’s marketing anything, but because she reminds them of Factors. She laughed as she told me that, but there is something uniquely special about that. That human connection shows up in all kinds of ways. 

I asked her about the balance between running the deli and the restaurant. I assumed it must be a managerial nightmare, but according to Suzee, it’s actually one of Factors greatest strengths. The deli supports the diner and the diner supports the deli. Someone might come in for a pickup and end up sitting down for a full meal, or sit down to eat and end up leaving with some Factors Deli staples.

There’s so much more I want to say. We spoke for around half an hour and I know now that Factors didn’t become a pillar of their community by accident. Factors in part built that relationship by donating to schools, police stations, fire departments, little leagues, and more. “It’s about getting your food in their hands and your values across”. I hope that one day my restaurant can bring people together the way Factors does.

If you’re ever in the LA area, Factors Famous Deli is located at 9420 West Pico Blvd. You can meet Suzee, have a meal, and more. I can assure you, you won’t regret it.