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 the French dip's birthplace since 1908 — sawdust floors, dipped sandwiches, and lines that have not changed in a century. Regulars order double-dipped lamb sandwich and beef french dip.
Philippe the Original is priced at $ — approx. under $20 per person.
Philippe the Original takes reservations by phone — call (213) 628-3781 to book.
Philippe the Original is at 1001 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, in Chinatown. Free lot behind the restaurant on Ord St
Philippe the Original is open Daily 6 AM–10 PM. Hours can change on holidays — confirm on Google Maps before a long drive.