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Evoking the spirit of an early 20th century saloon, Cole’s French Dip boasts original glass lighting, penny tile floors, and historic photos, preserved in the restoration of the cherished landmark. The bar’s ample selection of premium spirits, drafts, and historic cocktails compliment the saloon’s classic French Dip sandwiches. All ages welcome until 7pm. 21 and over with valid ID after 7pm.
Landmark saloon known for French dip sandwiches & classic cocktails, plus hidden speakeasy in back.
Hours
| Thursday | 2 PM–12 AM |
| Friday | 2 PM–2 AM |
| Saturday | 12 PM–2 AM |
| Sunday | 12 PM–12 AM |
| Monday | 2 PM–12 AM |
| Tuesday | 2 PM–12 AM |
| Wednesday | 2 PM–12 AM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 118 E 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014
Website: http://colesfrenchdip.com/
Menu Photos
Order and Reservations
Order: Order online
Photo Gallery
Related Web Results
Cole’s French Dip | Historic Bars in Los Angeles | 118 East 6th Street …
Since 1908 when Cole’s invented the French Dip Sandwich, this historic neighborhood bar has been dilligently serving the DTLA community. Cole’s French Dip …
After More Than 100 Years, French Dip Icon Cole’s Will Close (For …
Cole’s, one of the oldest continuously operated restaurants in Los Angeles, will now close on March 29, 2026. The 117-year-old restaurant …
Cole’s, Originators of the French Dip | Los Angeles CA – Facebook
Cole’s, Originators of the French Dip, Los Angeles. 9524 likes · 6 talking about this · 43858 were here. Located in Historic Downtown LA “…the…
Reviews
Michael L. French
Cole’s Original French Dip in Downtown Los Angeles feels like walking straight into a lovingly preserved time capsule. This place is very dated, but in a way that feels intentional—like if they updated anything, the walls would revolt. And honestly, that’s part of the charm.
Cole’s famously claims to have created the very first French dip back in 1908, and whether or not that debate ever gets settled, you can feel the history here. This is the kind of spot where you half-expect a guy in a fedora to slide into the booth next to you and whisper about “business.”
The menu is super simple, which I appreciated. I ordered the half French dip and it was very good—the meat was tender, the bread held up, and the au jus had a slightly tangy kick that kept things interesting. I also got the butter garlic fries, which were rich, garlicky, and dangerously easy to finish.
The bartender was genuinely nice and even gave me a quick history lesson—apparently Cole’s has new owners as of August, and the local community really came together to help save the place. It honestly made the experience feel even better knowing this historic spot didn’t disappear quietly.
I have a strong feeling the owners will never read this review and wouldn’t care if they did. I’m also a little nervous posting it because the place gives off serious “historic LA bar where the mafia definitely held meetings” energy, and I don’t want any problems.
All in all: dated, full of character, good food, and worth a visit if you want a French dip with a side of history and mild paranoia.
… moreCole’s famously claims to have created the very first French dip back in 1908, and whether or not that debate ever gets settled, you can feel the history here. This is the kind of spot where you half-expect a guy in a fedora to slide into the booth next to you and whisper about “business.”
The menu is super simple, which I appreciated. I ordered the half French dip and it was very good—the meat was tender, the bread held up, and the au jus had a slightly tangy kick that kept things interesting. I also got the butter garlic fries, which were rich, garlicky, and dangerously easy to finish.
The bartender was genuinely nice and even gave me a quick history lesson—apparently Cole’s has new owners as of August, and the local community really came together to help save the place. It honestly made the experience feel even better knowing this historic spot didn’t disappear quietly.
I have a strong feeling the owners will never read this review and wouldn’t care if they did. I’m also a little nervous posting it because the place gives off serious “historic LA bar where the mafia definitely held meetings” energy, and I don’t want any problems.
All in all: dated, full of character, good food, and worth a visit if you want a French dip with a side of history and mild paranoia.
Robert Fernandez
01/17/26
I’ve heard that Cole’s French Dip restaurant is one of the best in Los Angeles. I saw on the news that it’s closing permanently this year due to high rent. The good news is that the owners have confirmed
they will keep the doors open while seeking a buyer for the historic 117-year-old establishment.
The locals said the sandwiches are better than Philippe’s and come with famous au jus to take the meal to an entirely different level. I was convinced, so I came to the restaurant on Saturday with high expectations to try the prime rib sandwich.
I tried the sandwich at the bar to compare its taste to Philippe’s. I took five bites of the sandwich. The meat lacked flavor, and I hadn’t even added the dipping sauce. That was test one. For my second test, I added au jus to my sandwich to boost the flavor and took five more bites to see if it made a difference. The sauce did enhanced the flavor of my sandwich, but not enough to deserve five stars.
In a comparison of the two restaurants, I think Philippe’s is better than Cole’s French Dip because their sandwiches are better. The sandwiches are tasty and have more flavor. On the other hand, the au jus at Cole’s is much better than Philippe’s, offering a superior taste.
I’m giving the restaurant a three-star rating because the sandwich was average.
… moreI’ve heard that Cole’s French Dip restaurant is one of the best in Los Angeles. I saw on the news that it’s closing permanently this year due to high rent. The good news is that the owners have confirmed
they will keep the doors open while seeking a buyer for the historic 117-year-old establishment.
The locals said the sandwiches are better than Philippe’s and come with famous au jus to take the meal to an entirely different level. I was convinced, so I came to the restaurant on Saturday with high expectations to try the prime rib sandwich.
I tried the sandwich at the bar to compare its taste to Philippe’s. I took five bites of the sandwich. The meat lacked flavor, and I hadn’t even added the dipping sauce. That was test one. For my second test, I added au jus to my sandwich to boost the flavor and took five more bites to see if it made a difference. The sauce did enhanced the flavor of my sandwich, but not enough to deserve five stars.
In a comparison of the two restaurants, I think Philippe’s is better than Cole’s French Dip because their sandwiches are better. The sandwiches are tasty and have more flavor. On the other hand, the au jus at Cole’s is much better than Philippe’s, offering a superior taste.
I’m giving the restaurant a three-star rating because the sandwich was average.
C G
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’ 😉
… moreI 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’ 😉
Julia Elizarraraz
Best french dip on the planet. Spicy garlic fries and lamb with cheddar were even better today than ever. Cocktails are always on point. Service was phenomenal and it always is. Don’t forget to tip staff. They work really hard and the experience is well worth it. I’m always come back.
… moreMichelle M
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!
… moreThis 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!
dawn sebastian
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.
… moreJohn Larson
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!
… moreNop Jiarathanakul
Catching Cole’s before the closing. A real old-timey place. Wasn’t as crowded as I’d expect. Quite low key actually. Feels like you’ve stepped into the past. Sandwiches were great. My fav was the default Prime Beef, real tender and juicy, and the au jus perfectly complements and brings out the flavor. I’d say that one is better than Philippe’s. Anyway, a pleasure to be able to catch this historical place before closing time.
… moreF R
I went a few years back and loved it. How they are closing soon they have fallen a bit. I’m trying to recall if they always used paper plates. Or had no waiters. The men’s restroom signs are gone. Food was good.
… moreVincent H
Originator of the French drip. Great martini at bar. Delicious and quick food. Enjoyed special too, which was braised beef pot pie.
… more