Phillipe's: home of the original french dip sandwich
Phillipe's, established in 1908, is where the French Dip Sandwich was born. Located just a block from Union Station, in downtown Los Angeles, Phillipe's is a must-do when visiting Los Angeles.
The story goes that original owner Phillipe Mathieu accidentally dropped a roll in pan drippings, and the customer who had ordered the sandwich agreed to eat it anyway. That customer brought several friends in the next day, and for days after, for the same sandwich. The birthplace of the French Dip certainly makes a great French Dip (and you can substitute turkey for roast beef), but they also make other items -- freshly-made soups, beef stew, baked apples, and pickled pigs' feet, among others -- that make this both a local and tourist favorite.
You'll walk in to this deli style restaurant, and see long community tables. You'll stand in line (the lines move quickly) to order, and then you'll take your meal, served on paper plates, and carry it to your table. It's a casual and very friendly atmosphere; you'll most likely have a great conversation with others at the table, probably while passing the homemade mustard (it's the best you'll ever try).
Have some homemade lemonade, or a 10-cent cup of coffee (yes, you read that correctly, coffee is 10 cents), or maybe a glass of California wine, of which there's always a great selection. Perfect before or after a Dodgers Game. Cash only, about $15/person. (1001 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012; 213-628-3781).
Phillipe's is close to all Downtown L.A. hotels, such as the Kyoto Grand Hotel and Gardens and the Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza, and easily accessed by public transportation.
- Lesley Bracker
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