For more than a century, Cole’s French Dip has been more than just a restaurant—it’s been a living slice of Los Angeles history, where legendary sandwiches, vintage charm, and downtown grit came together under one roof. A beloved fixture since 1908, Cole’s wasn’t just a place to eat; it was a place to belong. But now, after 117 storied years, the restaurant is closing its doors for good. But what exactly brought this icon to the end of the line?
End of an Era: Cole’s French Dip Closing Its Doors This August
Located in downtown Los Angeles, Cole’s French Dip, is set to permanently close on August 3. In a statement provided to KTLA, a spokesperson for Cole’s outlined the difficult decision, citing “a litany of reasons” behind the closure. These include the ongoing financial strain from the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of the recent Hollywood strikes, a surge in crime, escalating labor and goods costs, high rent, and legal challenges.
Founded by entrepreneur Harry Cole, the establishment originally opened as the Red Car Bar before becoming the beloved Cole’s we know today.
As the final days approach, Cole’s is extending an invitation to the public to visit and savor one last meal within its storied walls. “We have cherished our time serving the downtown community and will continue to craft great drinks and our renowned French dip sandwiches until we shutter,” the statement read. “We care deeply about our family of staff and are immensely grateful for our amazing guests who have supported Cole’s over the years.”
Cole’s: The Original French Dip Pioneer
While the debate over who invented the French dip sandwich has simmered for decades, Cole’s French Dip proudly stakes its claim as the true originator of the beloved dish. According to a report by Eater LA, the story begins with chef Jack Garlinghouse, who is said to have dipped a sandwich bun into hot jus to help a customer with sensitive gums—a simple gesture that sparked a culinary icon.
Although Philippe the Original, another historic Los Angeles eatery, has long insisted it holds the same title, Cole’s has official recognition to back its claim. In 1974, the City of Los Angeles designated Cole’s as Historical Landmark Site No. 104 and a State Point of Historical Interest, explicitly acknowledging the restaurant as the birthplace of the French dip sandwich.
But Cole’s isn’t just famous for inventing the French dip—it’s equally celebrated for its timeless, old-school charm. Nestled in the historic Pacific Electric Building since 1908, the restaurant has endured for more than a century by maintaining its vintage character while adapting to changing tastes. In 2008, Cole’s underwent a $1.6 million restoration led by 213 Hospitality (now Pouring with Heart), a group known for breathing new life into LA’s historic spaces. The renovation carefully preserved its original details—glass lighting fixtures, red leather booths, and penny-tile floors—while updating the culinary program with help from renowned Los Angeles chef Neal Fraser, who infused the menu with a fresh, contemporary touch that honored the restaurant’s storied legacy.
Is Cole’s French Dip the Oldest Restaurant in Los Angeles?
Cole’s French Dip is not the oldest restaurant in Los Angeles. That title belongs to the Original Saugus Café in Santa Clarita. Founded in 1886 as the Saugus Eating House and strategically located alongside the Southern Pacific rail line, it was later renamed the Saugus Café and has remained in operation ever since, making it a remarkable living relic of California’s Old West.
But when it comes to restaurants within the city limits of Los Angeles, the spotlight shifts to two legendary contenders: Philippe the Original and Cole’s, both established in 1908. While Philippe’s has changed locations since its founding, Cole’s has remained in its original spot inside the Pacific Electric Building, giving it a unique edge in the ongoing debate over which is truly LA’s oldest dining institution.
Source: KTLA