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Cole's French Dip
Where the French Dip was born—historic LA sandwiches and classic cocktails since 1908.
4.6(5 reviews)
bar
$$
Where the French Dip was born—historic LA sandwiches and classic cocktails since 1908.
Cole's French Dip is a legendary Los Angeles landmark where the iconic French Dip sandwich was invented in 1908. Located in downtown LA, this historic bar and restaurant offers a nostalgic, old-school vibe with classic decor and photos that tell the story of old LA. We serve delicious French Dip sandwiches, including beef and lamb options, along with sides like garlic fries and atomic pickles, all paired with expertly crafted cocktails like smooth Old Fashioneds. As a piece of living history, Cole's provides a unique dining experience that blends authentic food, rich heritage, and a welcoming atmosphere—visit before it's gone!
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Signature beef and lamb French Dip sandwiches served on delicious bread with au jus for dipping.
Expertly made drinks like Old Fashioneds in a historic bar setting with a classic vibe.
Immerse in LA history with old-school decor, photos, and stories from the 1908 era.
Tasty options including garlic fries, atomic pickles, mac and cheese, and pickled eggs.
Ideal for tourists and groups looking to experience a piece of LA's culinary history.
I went here to check it out before it closes down. They've been threatening to close it for at least 6 months. Lol I went at around 430pm, there were only 8 people there. Food was good, a lil expensive for the portion you get. I had the classic beef dip, it was good- not great, opted for tomato soup, tasted tinney. It's more of a bar than a restaurant- a Nice bar. Inside is an old school vibe - classic old LA pictures on the walls. Bartender was very nice. Place was clean. Area is a lil sketchy, parking not easy. Mainly pay lots. 'Gritty LA' ;)
We had beef dip, garlic fries, and a pickled egg. Their bread is absolutely delicious ( wish they would share where it's from ) . The beef dip lacked flavor , needed improvement. The garlic fries were delicious and best I have ever had. Pickled egg was good , but costly.
Highly recommend a visit before they close at the end of the year (a true crime). The lamb sandwich with feta is fantastic, atomic pickles have a kick, mac and cheese yummy, and drinks are craft made. Great bartenders too!
Do you love French Dip Sandwiches? Did you know it was made in the heart of Los Angeles in a historic bar (formerly frequented by the old mobsters from the 50s). This is one of the few surviving historic places in LA that hasn't turned hipster, overpriced, or lost its charm and quality. My friend took us to her favorite bar with this cool history. The food as delicious, and the old fashioneds were smooth as hell. Definitely recommend checking this piece of history in case it ever closes down. (the varnish: which was the Coles restaurant prohibition era speakeasy is now forever closed) Make sure you come to where they invented the French Dip!
Update - You had better try Cole’s soon, as it has just announced it will be closing for good in Sept! Cole’s gets a 5 star across the board review from me. I went for the French Dip, but stayed for the Old Fashions! This place can seem a bit touristy, but the sandwiches live up to the reputation. I would rate them as better than the equally famous place near by. Notably, the ‘dip’ is better here. Plus the atmosphere is more old school, and the bar is an added plus. Overall, a good place to spend a little time when in downtown LA.
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