A history spanning over 100 years is about to come to an end. The iconic restaurant Cole’s French Dip, the oldest in Los Angeles, has announced it will permanently close its doors. Here’s when it will shut down and why the company made this heartbreaking decision.
When will Cole’s French Dip close?
The restaurant has announced it will close on August 3, 2025, after 117 years of service. On its website, Cole’s shared the following message with customers:
“After 117 incredible years of serving as LA’s favorite public house, Cole’s will be closing its doors on August 3, 2025. We are grateful to the Downtown LA community for joining us for good times, great cocktails, and the Original French Dip Sandwich.”
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Why is Cole’s French Dip closing?
According to owner Cedd Moses, the closure is due to multiple factors, including rising labor and rent costs, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2023 writers’ and actors’ strikes.
The history of Cole’s French Dip
Cole’s is a historic gem of Los Angeles, blending culinary legacy with urban heritage. Founded in 1908 by entrepreneur Harry Cole, the bar and restaurant is located in the historic Pacific Electric Building, once the hub of Henry Huntington’s railway empire. At its peak, over 100,000 passengers passed through the terminal daily, many stopping at Cole’s for its signature French Dip sandwich and a pint.
The sandwich’s origin has a unique backstory: Jack Garlinghouse, Cole’s chef, dipped the bread in hot beef jus (au jus) to make it easier for a customer with sore gums to eat. From this thoughtful gesture, one of L.A.’s most beloved dishes was born—now considered a culinary classic worldwide.
Recognizing its importance, the City of Los Angeles declared Cole’s Historic-Cultural Monument No. 104 in 1974 and a California State Point of Historical Interest. In 2009, Cole’s received the prestigious Los Angeles Conservancy Preservation Award, honoring its commitment to historic preservation. More than just a restaurant, Cole’s is a living tribute to the city’s rich history—where flavor and memory meet in every bite.
What is Cole’s French Dip sandwich like?
The French Dip at Cole’s is a warm, iconic L.A. sandwich. It’s made with thinly sliced roast beef served on a crispy baguette-style roll, accompanied by au jus—a savory beef broth in which the meat is cooked. The sandwich is dipped into the jus for enhanced flavor and a unique dining experience.
While Cole’s is widely credited with inventing the French Dip, there is a long-standing rivalry with Philippe’s, another local establishment that claims the same. Regardless, the sandwich remains a cornerstone of Los Angeles cuisine.
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What are Cole’s hours?
Cole’s is open every night.
When is Cole’s Happy Hour?
Happy Hour runs Sunday through Thursday, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and from 10:00 p.m. until closing.
Cole’s French Dip Menu
Cole’s French Dip offers a delicious selection of sandwiches, including the classic roast beef with full au jus and the braised pork combo with half jus. A standout is their BBQ pork sandwich topped with coleslaw and atomic pickles. Vegetarian options are available, along with irresistible sides like mac & cheese, and a full bar perfect for sharing with friends. Here are some of the dishes you’ll find on their menu:
- Roast Beef
- Pastrami
- Braised Pork
- BBQ Pork Sandwich
- Grilled Cheese
- Braised Lamb
- Cole’s Slaw
- French Fries
- Tater Tots
- Atomic Pickles
- Four Cheese Mac ‘N Cheese
- Tomato Soup
- Spicy Garlic Fries
- Side of House Au Jus
- House Spicy Pickled Egg
- Spicy Garlic Tots
