Chinatown · American · French Dip Sandwiches
The French dip's birthplace since 1908 — sawdust floors, dipped sandwiches, and lines that have not changed in a century
Philippe Mathieu accidentally invented the French dip in 1908 when a bread roll fell into the roasting pan drippings, and the restaurant has been running the same format ever since: cafeteria-style service, communal wooden tables, sawdust on the floor, and sandwiches served exactly the way Mathieu's customers asked for that first one. The lamb is the local's order — double-dipped for maximum saturation — and the mustard on the counter (hot enough to clear sinuses) is free. Breakfast service opens at 6 AM to catch the Chinatown and Union Station crowd, and it's one of the better deals in a city that loves to charge for nostalgia.
Philippe the Original is known for the french dip's birthplace since 1908 — sawdust floors, dipped sandwiches, and lines that have not changed in a century. Must-try dishes include Double-dipped lamb sandwich and Beef French dip.
Philippe the Original is priced at $ — approx. under $25 per person.
Philippe the Original takes reservations by phone. Call (213) 628-3781 to book.