For over a century, Cole’s French Dip stood at the heart of downtown Los Angeles—proudly claiming its role in inventing the French dip sandwich and serving generations of locals from its Pacific Electric Building location. Now, this iconic institution is preparing to close its doors for good—here’s what you need to know.
A Century of History
In 1908, Henry Cole established Cole’s Pacific Electric Buffet, later known as Cole’s French Dip, in downtown Los Angeles. This historic eatery claims the title of the city’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. Its roots are steeped in the bustling era of Los Angeles’ electric railways.
Located in the Pacific Electric Building, Cole’s became a beloved fixture for generations. With its classic interior, including original tile flooring and vintage lighting, it offered a nostalgic glimpse into the past. Throughout the years, Cole’s preserved its charm while catering to ever-changing dining trends.
Its historical significance and longevity have made it a cherished landmark, reflecting the vibrant evolution of Los Angeles’ food scene.
The Claim to the French Dip’s Origin
Did you know Cole’s claims to be the birthplace of the iconic French dip sandwich? Allegedly, chef Jack Garlinghouse concocted this delicacy by dipping a sandwich into beef juice to aid a customer with dental troubles. This simple act of culinary innovation sparked a century-long debate with Philippe the Original over who can truly claim the sandwich’s origin.
A friendly rivalry ensued, with both establishments serving their unique versions of the beloved dip. For locals and tourists alike, sampling each version has become a rite of passage.
The French dip not only embodies a piece of culinary history but also represents the spirit of competition and creativity that defines Los Angeles’ diverse food culture.
The Official Closing Date
Mark your calendars: Cole’s was originally set to close on August 3, 2025. However, due to an outpouring of public sentiment, the final chapter was extended to mid-September 2025. This extension came as a bittersweet reprieve to fans eager for one last French dip.
The revised closing date allows for farewell gatherings and celebrations at this beloved institution. Patrons can reminisce over meals shared and memories made within its walls.
As the closing date approaches, locals and visitors alike flock to experience Cole’s one final time. The restaurant’s farewell is not just an ending but a convergence of nostalgia, community, and culinary heritage.
Why It’s Shuttering
Facing numerous challenges, Cole’s closure is a microcosm of broader issues affecting many historic establishments. The lingering pandemic aftermath, coupled with the impacts of the 2023 Hollywood strikes, have left scars on its operations. Rising costs in labor and goods further strained the business.
The restaurant’s downtown location in the Skid Row area brought additional hurdles. Increasing crime rates and bureaucratic obstacles made it difficult to sustain operations. Employees often dealt with unsafe conditions, including frequent clean-ups due to vandalism.
The decision to shutter was not easy but inevitable amid mounting pressures. Cole’s story echoes the struggles of many cultural icons in the ever-evolving urban landscape of Los Angeles.
A Cultural & Literary Hub
Beyond sandwiches, Cole’s stood as a vibrant cultural hub. Its booths hosted literary figures like Charles Bukowski, whose gritty prose often mirrored the authenticity of Cole’s ambiance. The restaurant’s quirky charm is immortalized in a plaque dedicated to Mickey Cohen in the restroom.
Cole’s also featured a speakeasy, The Varnish, where cocktails flowed amidst whispers of jazz. Despite its 2024 closure, The Varnish added a layer of mystique to Cole’s legacy.
The restaurant’s cultural significance went beyond mere sustenance. Its presence in pop culture—appearing in films like Forrest Gump and The Lincoln Lawyer—cemented its status as a beloved Los Angeles icon, intersecting food, literature, and history.
