No matter what any trainer to the stars may tell you, Angelenos love to eat fatty comfort foods. Just look at L.A. institutions like Fatburger, a mainstay since 1952. Now along comes a concept even more audacious: Fat Sal’s Deli. Sal Capek and Josh Stone’s burgeoning chain has been a hit in Hollywood and Westwood, expanded to San Diego and Austin, and just opened in Encino at the corner of Ventura and Balboa boulevards.

Fat Sandwiches are among the most popular menu items, many of which include French fries stacked within the roll. The Fat Joey also features pastrami, turkey, melted Swiss, cole slaw and Russian dressing. Fat Texas (pictured) is even more over-the-top, also stacking BBQ pastrami brisket, chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, crisp bacon, grilled onions, melted cheddar and mozzarella, mayo and honey BBQ on a garlic hero roll.

Sal’s signature burgers, including the Pepperoni Pizza Burger and Buffalo Chicken Burger, are similarly outlandish. You can also order Fat Fries and Fat Shakes. More judicious sandwiches include Irresistible Italiano and Terrific Turkey Club.

Big Fat Fatty ($49.99) is the biggest indulgence. The 27-inch sandwich features cheesesteak, cheeseburgers, pastrami, chicken fingers, crisp bacon, mozzarella sticks, fried eggs, fries, onion rings, chili, marinara and “fat sauce” on a garlic hero roll. According to the rules, “If eaten by one brave adventurous soul in 40 minutes or less, the sandwich is free and that amazing human can create and name their very own fat sandwich. In store only. Not available for delivery or takeout.”

The deli occupies a former Johnny Rockets, abutting a dry cleaner, and offers counter and communal seating as well as a sun-soaked patio. Sports fans can enjoy 10 flat-screen TVs, and they blast rap music throughout the space.

Encino is the first Fat Sal’s location in California to sell beer and wine. To honor the occasion, Golden Road Brewing created their signature beer, dubbed Fat Ale. This “medium bodied pale ale with a bright citrus aroma and light floral notes” clocks 5.5% ABV, a respectable 45 IBUs and is crafted with Bravo hops and four different malts.

For the time being, Encino is the only Valley location in the cards for Fat Sal’s Deli, but they’re making it count. This location is open nightly until 3 a.m. except for Sunday, when they dim the lights at 2 a.m.

16901 Ventura Blvd., Encino, 855-682-4373