Philippe the Original
LA's historic deli since 1908, famous for inventing the French dip sandwich with a classic, communal dining experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the lunch rush
Philippe the Original
Best Time
Beat the lunch rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
LA's historic deli since 1908, famous for inventing the French dip sandwich with a classic, communal dining experience.
"A taste of LA history with their legendary French dip sandwiches and a truly unique vintage atmosphere."
🎯 Double Dip for Flavor
Ask for a side of au jus to dip your sandwich in again for extra flavor!
🌶️ Mustard Caution!
The house mustard is famously hot. Use it sparingly at first, or ask for it on the side.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic French Dip
Main Counter
The legendary sandwich that put Philippe's on the map. Choose your meat and dip level for a taste of LA history.
Retro Sawdust Floors
Dining Area
A unique, old-school touch that adds to the vintage charm and historic ambiance of the restaurant.
Pickled Eggs & Desserts
Dessert/Side Counter
Don't overlook the classic sides like pickled eggs, or sweet treats like custard and pudding for a full meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Communal Dining
Master the French Dip Order
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Double Dip for Flavor
Ask for a side of au jus to dip your sandwich in again for extra flavor!
🌶️ Mustard Caution!
The house mustard is famously hot. Use it sparingly at first, or ask for it on the side.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Philippe's offers two free parking lots, a major plus in downtown LA.
🍽️ Embrace Shared Tables
Communal seating is the norm here. Don't hesitate to join a table!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Double Dip for Flavor
Ask for a side of au jus to dip your sandwich in again for extra flavor!
🌶️ Mustard Caution!
The house mustard is famously hot. Use it sparingly at first, or ask for it on the side.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Philippe's offers two free parking lots, a major plus in downtown LA.
🍽️ Embrace Shared Tables
Communal seating is the norm here. Don't hesitate to join a table!
📸 Vintage Photobooth Fun
Snap some retro photos at the vintage photobooth located inside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Philippe the Original is celebrated for its iconic, delicious French dip sandwiches and its deep historical roots in Los Angeles. Diners appreciate the affordable prices, efficient service, and unique vintage atmosphere, including the famous sawdust floors and communal seating. While parking is free and plentiful, some find the signature mustard to be quite potent.
"The French dip is absolutely amazing. I got double meat which was well worth it. Drink selection was very diverse. The decor inside was also something to take note of. I got pudding for dessert and that was also a great treat. Parking can be difficult at times but they have 2 lots and street parking as well."
Daniel Aguilar
"Went here on a Sunday morning. Parking was easy to find since the establishment has 2 parking spaces for patrons.
The line was pretty long, but with the amount of workers at the register the line moved pretty quick. The menu is somewhat extensive, so being in line for a long time is a plus. I ordered a beef single-dipped sandwich with a side of au jus, pickled eggs, custard and their house lager. The cashier prepared everything for you and they give you a tray to take to a table. Everything was delicious. Personally, I'd have more meat on my sandwich, but now I know to ask for extra. The pickled egg was delightful along with the custard. The beer was delicious and refreshing. The house hot mustard is definitely something not to mess with. Enjoy in light portions, but I did take some home.
Overall, a great experience! Historical, the atmosphere is a cafeteria environment, and the food was delicious. Definitely worth coming to the inventors of the French dip sandwich."
Jerome Melgar
"Pro Tip ⚠️: Try the beef with cheddar—but go easy on the signature mustard, it’s hot (in the best way). Also, free parking is a win!
When I Visited: We stopped by Philippe’s before a Dodgers game, based on a solid rec from a stadium employee.
Food/Drink Details 🥪: This place is a classic American diner—simple, tasty, and affordable. I had the French dipped beef with cheddar and it was on point. Ingredients were fresh, flavors hit just right. For dessert, the cheesecake was old-school and delicious.
Service 🤝: Friendly and fast. Perfect for grabbing a bite before the game.
Atmosphere/Decor 🍽️: Retro diner vibes with a timeless feel. There’s just one TV if you’re hoping to catch the game, but it did the job.
Overall Experience ⭐: Philippe’s is a hidden gem just 10 minutes from Dodger Stadium, with two free parking lots and that no-frills, good-eats energy. Great spot for a pre-game bite or a casual meal with flavor and history."
Chisco Valdés
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Philippe the Original is located at 1001 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, near Union Station and Chinatown. Many visitors arrive via car, utilizing the restaurant's free parking lots. Public transport options include the Metro Rail B (Red) and D (Purple) Lines to Union Station, followed by a short walk. +1
Yes, Philippe's offers two free parking lots for patrons, which is a significant perk in downtown LA. Street parking is also available but can be more challenging to find.
Absolutely! The closest Metro station is Union Station, which is a short walk away. This makes it accessible for those using the Metro Rail system.
Visiting during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings or early afternoons, can help you avoid the worst of LA's notorious traffic.
Yes, Philippe's is a popular spot for pre-game meals before heading to Dodger Stadium, located just about 10 minutes away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required. Philippe's operates as a walk-in restaurant. You order at the counter and then find a seat.
Philippe's is open daily, typically from 6 AM to 10 PM, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
There is no admission fee. You only pay for the food and drinks you order.
Philippe's does not take reservations. It's a first-come, first-served establishment, encouraging a lively, communal dining experience.
Wait times can vary significantly. During peak hours or weekends, you might wait 15-30 minutes in line. However, the staff is efficient, and the line moves quickly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Philippe the Original is most famous for inventing the French dip sandwich, a culinary icon of Los Angeles. They've been serving it since 1908. +1
You can choose from beef, lamb, turkey, or pastrami for your French dip sandwich.
You'll specify your meat and your 'dip' level: single (lightly dipped), double (fully dipped), or dry (no dip). Many also add cheese.
Besides French dips, popular items include pickled eggs, coleslaw, beets, pastrami sandwiches, and various desserts like custard and cheesecake.
Yes, the house mustard is known for being quite potent and spicy. It's recommended to try it in small amounts first.
While primarily known for its meat sandwiches, Philippe's does offer sides like coleslaw, beets, and desserts that can be enjoyed by vegetarians.
Yes, Philippe's offers takeout orders, making it easy to enjoy their famous sandwiches anywhere.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vintage ambiance with shots of the sawdust floors, the bustling counter, the communal tables, and of course, the iconic French dip sandwich. The exterior also has a classic diner feel.
Generally, yes. Most visitors take photos of their food and the restaurant's interior. Be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography.
Yes, Philippe's features a vintage photobooth, offering a fun and unique opportunity for memorable photos.
Daytime visits offer the best natural light for food photography. However, the evening ambiance with its classic diner lighting can also be appealing for atmospheric shots.
It's best to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of staff members. Focus on capturing the overall atmosphere and your food experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the famous French dip (which can be ordered 'dry' or with less dip for younger palates), consider sides like coleslaw or fries, and don't miss the desserts like custard or pudding, which are always a hit with children.
💰 Budget Travelers
The communal dining setup means you're not paying for table service, and the efficient ordering system keeps costs down. Plus, the free parking eliminates another common travel expense in Los Angeles.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the vintage photobooth for some unique, retro-themed shots that stand out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Century of French Dip History
This rich history is palpable the moment you step inside. The sawdust on the floor is a deliberate throwback to the early days of saloons and eateries, adding to the authentic, old-school atmosphere.
Visitors often remark on the timeless feel of Philippe's, noting that it has retained its essence despite the changing city around it. It’s a place where you can feel the weight of history with every bite of a French dip, a true testament to its enduring legacy.
Navigating the Philippe's Experience
The communal seating is a defining feature. You'll be sharing long tables with other diners, which can be a fun way to observe local life or strike up a conversation.
For those looking for a quick bite or a unique photo opportunity, Philippe's also offers a vintage photobooth inside, adding an element of fun to your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit