Philippe the Original

Philippe the Original

Classic french dip and potato salad

Sometimes the history of an eatery adds a little something extra to the food being served there.  Philippe the Original is one such place. Laying claim as the longest continuously operating restaurant in Los Angeles, Philippe the Original is popular for something even more famous.  It is the birthplace of the French Dip Sandwich. While the story of how exactly the sandwich was invented is up for debate, from a happy accident for a fireman named “French” to the owner not wanting to throw out stale rolls, the flavor of the sandwich is unmistakable. 

The cooks at Philippe’s, roast their own meat in house and from that the gravy or “jus” it’s served with is made.  They don’t stop there though. They also make their own mustard and it’s of the spicy variety.   Available as an accompaniment to the sandwiches and for purchase by the jar in the gift shop, it takes the sandwich to a whole other level.

Typical day at "Frenchy's"

With as many as ten “carvers,” many of which have been working there for over 20 years, the service is special and unique. Sandwiches are offered with half of the roll dipped, both sides dipped or the entire sandwich soaked in gravy. While roast beef is the most popular, other cuts offered are roast pork, ham, turkey, and lamb.

Located in the historic district of Downtown Los Angeles adjacent to Chinatown, Frenchy’s  as it’s also known is open for breakfast and offers awesome soups, salads, and desserts. While they do offer other sandwiches including a peanut butter and jelly “jamwich.”  It’s the french dip the people line up for; and they do line up.  You may be waiting awhile for it but it’s well worth it. .  Have it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it. I live 2 hours away yet still consider myself a frequent customer. It’s the best french dipped lamb I’ve ever had.

Philippe the Original
1001 N. Alameda St.
Los Angeles, CA  90012
http://www.philippes.com/
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About the Author

Restaurant chef, Food and travel blogger, Social media addict, Blackberry lover, Toys 'R Us kid.