Busy Bee Market

Located on South Walker Avenue in the heart of San Pedro, Busy Bee Market is a beloved sandwich shop that has become a cherished local institution. Specializing in classic American deli-style sandwiches, Busy Bee offers an impressive array of both hot and cold options, satisfying every craving from savory pastrami to hearty BBQ chicken. Whether you're in the mood for a traditional Pastrami Sandwich, a flavorful Italian Sausage, or their renowned Belly Buster — a generous sub piled high with combinations like beef brisket, pastrami, and corned beef — this spot delivers bold, satisfying flavors that keep customers coming back for more.

Step inside Busy Bee Market and you’ll immediately notice the vibrant hum of a bustling lunchtime crowd, a testament to its enduring popularity. The atmosphere here is straightforward and no-nonsense — exactly what you want from a classic sandwich joint with deep roots. It’s a place where quality and tradition take center stage, serving up sandwiches on soft bread with fresh, melt-in-your-mouth meats and perfectly balanced condiments. The aroma of freshly roasted pork and smoked brisket wafts through the air, promising a rich and savory experience with every bite.

One cannot talk about Busy Bee without mentioning the legendary pastrami — repeatedly praised by loyal customers for its tender, flavorful, and impeccably seasoned profile. Coupled with their option to dip your sandwich in warm pastrami broth, this elevated approach transforms a simple sandwich into a comforting, mouthwatering delight. Customers like Vanessa Cabezas rave about the “soft and savory” pastrami resting “on a soft pillow of bread,” while nalleli Garcia swears by the substantial portions and decadent dipping process that makes you forget about sides or drinks altogether.

The menu is truly a feast for deli lovers: cold sandwiches range from classics like Tuna, Ham, Mortadella, and Prosciutto to the substantial Belly Buster, which can reach $14.25, loaded with premium cuts. Hot sandwich aficionados are equally well served, with highlights such as the Roast Beef Dip, Meatball with Cheese, and BBQ Chicken Sandwich, all crafted to deliver bold layers of flavor and satisfying textures. Not to be overlooked are the variety of side salads including creamy Macaroni Salad, tangy Cole Slaw, and classic Potato Salad, which provide a perfect balance to the hearty mains.

Real patron experiences add genuine color to the Busy Bee story. Richard Cardenas shares his thrill at discovering the Belly Buster, mixing pastrami and corned beef for a truly decadent bite. Mark Gardner’s nostalgic revisit confirms that decades of family ownership have kept the quality “just as good” as it was 40 years ago, embodying a sense of heritage and community pride. While Nate Wooding notes the bustling atmosphere and cash-only policy may deter some, he acknowledges that for true locals this place is a go-to for satisfying, traditional subs.

Whether you’re a San Pedro local or a visitor seeking an authentic deli experience, Busy Bee Market offers a memorable, flavor-packed stop. Embrace the delight of digging into one of their generously stacked sandwiches and savor the comforting, timeless taste of an American deli classic done exceptionally well.