Philippe The Original, located on North Alameda Street in Los Angeles, California, is a culinary landmark renowned for being the home of the French Dipped Sandwich. This historic eatery offers a unique and authentic Los Angeles dining experience, drawing locals and tourists alike to savor its signature creation and classic American fare.
The undisputed star of Philippe’s is the “French Dipped Sandwich.” Guests can choose from a selection of thinly sliced, roasted meats – roast beef, roast pork, leg of lamb, turkey, or ham – each piled high on a freshly baked French roll. The roll is then, as the name suggests, dipped in the savory natural gravy from the roasting juices, imparting a depth of flavor and a delightful, slightly softened texture. To customize your sandwich, Philippe’s offers a variety of cheese options including Swiss, Cheddar, American, Monterey Jack, or Blue cheese.
Complementing the iconic sandwich is a selection of classic sides. Philippe’s tangy cole slaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich sandwich. Homemade potato and macaroni salads offer comforting, familiar flavors. For a unique twist, try the hard-boiled eggs pickled in beet juice and spices, adding a vibrant color and zesty taste to your plate. Large Kosher-style dill or sweet pickles and black olives are also available, along with Philippe’s famous hot yellow chili peppers for those who crave some heat. A testament to tradition, Philippe’s still serves a significant amount of pigs feet each week, showcasing their commitment to classic recipes.
Adding another layer to the Philippe’s experience is their renowned hot mustard. Prepared in-house twice weekly in 40-gallon batches, this French mustard is known for its intense heat and should be used sparingly. However, when used judiciously, it elevates the French Dipped Sandwich to another level of deliciousness. Bottles of this potent mustard are available for purchase, allowing patrons to take a piece of Philippe’s home with them.
Beyond sandwiches, Philippe’s menu features hearty and satisfying options. Their beef stew, made daily with choice beef and fresh vegetables, offers a comforting and flavorful meal. Two soup selections are available daily, alongside their popular chili and beans, ensuring a warm and fulfilling choice for every palate.
To quench your thirst, Philippe’s offers a range of beverages including lemonade, iced tea, and various soft drinks. For those seeking something stronger, domestic and imported beers, house wines, and premium wines by the glass are also available.
No visit to Philippe’s is complete without indulging in their dessert offerings. A tempting array of cream and fruit pies are baked fresh daily. Additionally, ice cream, New York-style cheesecake, seasonal baked apples, custard, tapioca, and fresh fruit provide a sweet ending to your meal.
For early risers, Philippe’s serves hearty breakfasts from 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The breakfast menu includes eggs cooked to your liking, bacon, sausage, ham, corned beef hash, and their signature fried potatoes. Homemade salsa is available to accompany egg dishes. Omelets, cinnamon French toast, pancakes, and a variety of fruits and juices round out the breakfast selection. Coffee is included with most breakfast orders, and Philippe’s in-house bakery produces fresh biscuits, cinnamon streusel coffee cake, cinnamon rolls, donuts, and muffins daily. Notably, Philippe’s coffee remained a nickel until 1977, a dime until recently, and is now a still-affordable 45 cents a cup, reflecting its commitment to value.
The service style at Philippe’s is part of its charm. A long display counter is staffed by ten “Carvers,” many of whom have been with Philippe’s for decades, embodying the restaurant’s enduring legacy. Each Carver is equipped to handle your entire order, from crafting your sandwich or hot dish to serving sides, soups, and drinks, and processing your payment. This efficient, counter-style service contributes to the fast-paced yet friendly atmosphere. Philippe’s embraces a casual, communal dining experience. Meals are served on paper plates, and the ambiance is characterized by ceiling fans, vintage neon signs, and sawdust-covered floors. Seating is family-style at long wooden tables with stools, encouraging interaction and a sense of community among diners from all walks of life. The walls are adorned with press clippings and civic accolades, and even a vintage scale once used by Norman Rockwell adds to the nostalgic charm. Philippe’s invites you to feel at home and become part of its ongoing story.
Philippe’s, located at 1001 North Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a piece of Los Angeles history. Quotes from notable journalists over the years underscore its significance. Matt Weinstock of the Los Angeles Daily News in 1951 described Philippe’s as “something special” that evokes yearning even from afar. Merrill Shindler of the Los Angeles Herald Examiner called it a “marvelous phenomenon” connecting to LA’s past. MacDonald Harris of the New York Times in 1990 highlighted the “air of camaraderie” and “democratic spirit” that defines the Philippe’s experience. Visiting Philippe The Original on North Alameda Street is not just about enjoying a world-famous French Dipped Sandwich; it’s about stepping into a Los Angeles institution and experiencing a taste of history and community.
