The End Of An Era: 5 Untold Secrets Of Cole's French Dip, The L.A. Landmark That Just Closed

The recent, permanent closure of Cole's French Dip in late 2025 marked the end of an astonishing 117-year run for Los Angeles’ oldest restaurant and saloon. This historic Downtown L.A. institution, a true culinary landmark, closed its doors after numerous extensions and a massive public outpouring of support, leaving behind a legacy that transcends a simple sandwich. The news of the final shuttering, which was extended from its initial August 2025 date to a final close around November 2025, sent shockwaves through the city, reminding everyone that even the most enduring establishments are not immune to change. For over a century, Cole's has been more than just a place to eat; it was a time capsule nestled within the historic Pacific Electric Building. It was a dimly lit, cozy haven famous for its classic cocktails and, most importantly, its signature Original French Dip Sandwich. As the city mourns the loss of this venerable saloon, we look back at the fascinating history, the contentious claim to fame, and the secrets that made Cole's an irreplaceable piece of Downtown Los Angeles history.

The Contested Origin: Cole's vs. Philippe's and the French Dip Saga

The cornerstone of Cole's fame rests on a single, juicy, and hotly debated claim: the invention of the French Dip Sandwich. This simple yet perfect creation—thinly sliced meat on a French roll, dipped in savory au jus—is the subject of one of Los Angeles' greatest culinary rivalries.

The Cole's Version of History

The official story from Cole's states that the sandwich was invented shortly after the restaurant’s founding in 1908 by Harry Cole. The hero of this tale is Jack Garlinghouse, Cole's house chef. The legend goes that in 1908, a customer with sore gums asked for his sandwich roll to be softened. Garlinghouse, in a moment of brilliant improvisation, dipped the bread in the pan drippings (au jus) from the roast. The customer loved it, and the Original French Dip was born. Cole's was originally named Cole's Pacific Electric Buffet, catering to commuters from the adjacent Pacific Electric Railway terminal.

The Competing Claim from Philippe's

Just a mile away, another legendary L.A. eatery, Philippe's The Original, also claims to have invented the sandwich, though their establishment date is two years later, in 1910. The debate over which restaurant truly holds the title of "original creator" has fueled a friendly but fierce rivalry for over a century, making the French Dip a quintessential L.A. institution dish.

A Culinary Time Capsule: The Cole's Menu and Ambiance

Cole's was known for its simple, focused menu that centered around the Dip. The food and the atmosphere were designed to transport patrons back to a bygone era, making it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Los Angeles history.

The Legendary French Dips

While the Roast Beef Dip was the classic and most popular choice, the menu offered a variety of other savory options, all served with a side of their iconic au jus for dipping. The quality of the meat—slow-roasted and hand-carved—was always paramount.

• Roast Beef Dip: The classic, made with savory slow-roasted beef.
• Pastrami Dip: A rich, flavorful option for those who prefer the cured, spiced meat.
• Braised Pork Dip: A tender, slow-cooked alternative.
• Braised Lamb Dip: A unique and often overlooked specialty.
• Turkey Breast Dip: A lighter, but equally satisfying choice.

More Than Just a Sandwich

Beyond the dips, Cole's offered a small selection of elevated pub fare. The Four Cheese Mac 'N Cheese was a cheesy delight and a highly-recommended side dish. Their House-made Pickles were a perfect, tangy counterpoint to the rich, savory sandwiches. The restaurant also featured a full bar serving classic cocktails, which contributed to its reputation as a historic saloon.

The Secret Speakeasy and Legacy of the L.A. Landmark

Part of the charm and mystery of Cole's was its hidden elements, which spoke to the building's deep history and the vibrant life of Downtown L.A.

The Red Car Bar

Tucked away in the back of the restaurant was the Red Car Bar, a classic, dimly lit speakeasy. Named after the Pacific Electric Railway's famous Red Cars that once stopped right outside the building, the bar was a hidden gem. It maintained a sophisticated, intimate atmosphere, serving up craft cocktails and acting as a nod to the building's past as a bustling transit hub. The bar's name and decor were a constant reminder of the historical context of the Pacific Electric Building and its role in the city's development.

The Cedd Moses Era and Final Days

In the early 2000s, the restaurant was restored by entrepreneur Cedd Moses and his hospitality group, who worked to preserve its original character while updating the menu and bar program. This revitalization effort ensured the L.A. institution survived into the 21st century, continuing its legacy of serving the Original French Dip and classic drinks. The final closure in late 2025 was reportedly due to a failure to reach a new lease agreement, a common challenge for historic buildings in rapidly developing areas like DTLA.

An Unforgettable Legacy

The permanent closure of Cole's French Dip is a significant cultural loss for Los Angeles. It was a place where generations of Angelenos, from railway commuters to modern-day downtown residents, shared a meal. It stood as a tangible link to the city's past, a place where you could almost hear the ghosts of the early 20th century. While the doors are now closed, the legacy of the Original French Dip Sandwich, the contentious history with Philippe's, and the memory of the cozy, timeless historic saloon will live on as an essential chapter in Los Angeles' culinary and cultural history. The au jus may no longer be flowing at 118 East 6th Street, but the story of Harry Cole's enduring establishment will forever be etched into the fabric of the city.

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