Philippe The Original
Business Information
Restaurants, SandwichesTraditional American
performance
Free Parking
Message from the Business
Philippe The Original is one of the oldest and best known restaurants in Southern California. Philippe's was established in 1908 by Philippe Mathieu, who claimed the distinction of having created the "French Dipped Sandwich."
Philippe's "French Dipped Sandwich" is the specialty of the house and consists of either beef, roast pork, leg of lamb, turkey or ham served on lightly textured, freshly baked French roll which has been dipped in natural gravy of the roast.
We our also known for our breakfast, deli sandwiches, salad, soups, bake goods, drinks, wine and beer. So check out our menu!
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CitySearch
Top Sentiments among Philippe The Original Reviewers
Famous French dip sandwiches
Delicious mustards
Best roast beef
Amazing potato salad
Good macaroni salad
Perfect lemonade
Recommend chili bean soup
Fabulous tastes
Juicy french dip lamp sandwich
Great desserts
Customer Reviews (209 reviews)
craig
on Yahoo Jan 05, 2010I went to philippe last week for the first time in 20 years,but have been going there since 1965.I read the reviews on how much they had changed for the worse...I strongly beg to differ...It was better then ever.I had... (more)
Something
on Yahoo Jan 05, 2010That's the best restaurant in the area for sure. If you are sick of industrial and annoying restaurants, you've come to the right place. (more)
WhateverZorz
on Yahoo Jan 05, 2010Great restaurant, I really love it, I hope that there'll be more restaurants like this one, really reccommended! (more)
Robert H
on Yahoo Jan 01, 2010Great food at great prices, and a pretty fast way of getting customers served. Ignore the negative reviews. These people must be on some bad weed. If the place has been around for close to a century, would you think its... (more)
jk
on Yahoo Dec 01, 2009Don't be a foolish tourist,this a RIP-OFF.the smallest portion i ever seen in a restaurant,rude service and they expect a tip even when the customer waits in long lines.Why be so stingy? they could care less about the... (more)
gotta beef
on Yahoo Nov 20, 2009I've been here a few times since I moved to LA six years ago. Each time I left dissapointed. I've tried the beef and the turkey, and always ask for extra au jus, but they refuse even if you offer to pay. I guess they don't... (more)
Charlotte
on Yahoo Nov 09, 2009I can say I did it once!. Very average food nothing special. I have had better beef dip sandwiches at undiscovered places. The quality of bread is awful. The lemonade was lacking in 'lemony' taste.... (more)
JonSoleymani
on Citysearch Nov 02, 2009If you're looking for an amazing, cheap French Dip, Philippe's is the place. The originator of the French Dip (yes, you heard me right), Philippe's is perfect right before a Dodger game! But get there early, as the... (more)
jrizal
on Citysearch Nov 01, 2009I believe this is the only place that serves french-dip sandwiches. Good lamb sandwich but it does not taste lamby. Cole slaw is good, too. The cons: the service is inconsistent--sometimes good and sometimes bad.... (more)
Sheauen
on Citysearch Oct 20, 2009Breakfast is good. Lunch is good. so is dinner. Gets a bit crowded and the prices are immune to the economy but all in all, its a great place to get a good french dip that won't break the bank, and to get a good slice of... (more)
MikeM
on Yahoo Oct 19, 2009The food was pretty good but we were seated for a minute before a man came over and asked for money, I said no. Then maybe 2 minutes later a homeless woman came over and asked for money, before I knew what was happening she... (more)
sugartatas
on Citysearch Aug 18, 2009plenty of parking- the Roast Beef dip with cheese is a real treat!!! the only problem I have with the place is most of the time you get a rude or snotty sandwich clerk. I keep getting the tall blonde that has an attitude- I... (more)
OBETH Q
on Yahoo Jul 22, 2009It is history all right, but common the sandwiches are not to die for. Compare to other sandwiches is o.k. and fine. I will go back to eat out there maybe in 1 year just to check it out.... (more)
eatlikeachampion
on Yahoo Jun 29, 2009I've been going to Philippe's for years and it never dissapoints!! The sandwiches are nothing short of amazing! This place is great to go to before a Dodgers game. The lure has to rest with the mustard. If you are going,... (more)
Patrycja
on Yahoo Jun 23, 2009Let's get right to it! Lines are long and unmanaged. It's very congested and does NOT have a 'stay and eat feeling'. They refused to serve au jus on the side, not even at a cost. I choke on dry food(as I have dysphagia)and... (more)
a Yahoo! Local User
on Yahoo Jun 23, 2009i have been going here for 39 years. and as a kid i loved the cold glass of lemonade. and the pickles. and the old ladys who served the food. i came back to bring my hubby the only thing thats diff is th sandwich is small now... (more)
lmo1823
on Citysearch Jan 25, 2009I went for the first time yesterday, and it was really, really good. Just yum. Everyone hates on the beef dip, but I had that-- I think asking for "double dip" is a must-- and it was really good. The lamb was also good, but... (more)
davisby23
on Citysearch Jan 03, 2009not traditional as it was back in the day, small two slices roast beef with bread, did they pay food network off to show a large back in the day sandswich? big joke, go to chinatown right behind restaurant... (more)
Tarantura
on Citysearch Jan 02, 2009Their sandwiches aren't that filling by themselves, but they are fairly good. Maybe a little too expensive (OK, 9 cent coffee is nice). Tasty hot mustard on the tables. Worth it once in a great while to eventually make... (more)
moontan
on Yahoo Dec 17, 2008Come to Philippe's when you're in town.: Thanks to KCET's program, "Visiting With...Huell Howser, I visited this over 100 years old cafe and have been there several times. From city officials to celebrities, many... (more)
I B Oso
on Yahoo Nov 24, 2008The sandwiches are to die for. My personal preference is the lamb, double-dipped. The meats are slow roasted--always moist and flavorful. Sometimes I put their homemade mustard on and sometimes I have it Au... (more)
NativeSon
on Yahoo Nov 21, 2008Words just cant describe the aura of this place, and the great taste,...I lived in SoCal from 72, to 75,..and this place is a favorite spot, with fond memories,..I'd like to make a Special trip back out west,..just to... (more)
nitekatt2009
on Yahoo Nov 11, 2008We have been going to Philippes the Original for many years and it has always been good. I always order the turkey, dry without dip with some American cheese. I of course love their hot mustard and apply it liberally. We... (more)
whitneymuse
on Yahoo Nov 11, 2008I you're in downtown LA, and have never tried this place, it's as everyone here has said; it's great. Their lamb, roast beef, pork french dip sandwiches are an institution. My father went there as a kid and it's always... (more)
David S
on Yahoo Oct 09, 2008I love this place! I have been coming here with my family since I was a little kid. If I get to choose where I spend my birthday this is where I will go. I love to share this place with out of town friends as this place is what... (more)
fudgebrownie
on Citysearch Sep 16, 2008The atmosphere is beautiful and reminiscent of times gone by, and I love eating upstairs where it is nice and quiet, or if I want to turn up the volume a notch downstairs is also cool, and they have this cute little museum... (more)
RRAT
on Yahoo Aug 24, 2008I want to say that "Philippe the Original" is both an Icon and living memory. You just need to visit and become part of LA's history... (more)
mad7jad28
on Yahoo Jul 24, 2008Ok, I am an Angelino born and raised in the best city in the world... I was brought up enjoying every part of the melting pot that is my city. Let me tell you from a true Angelino that there is nothing better and more... (more)
jojo64
on Citysearch Jul 15, 2008I've been there many times in the last 5 years and this place's food is so great comparing to the price I've spent. The sandwiches always come with big sizes and the dessert is super generous. The only cons is the service... (more)
patrick
on Yahoo Jul 13, 2008After reading all the great reviews about Philippes on this site, I decided to give it a try. We had tickets to a Dodger game which also seems to add to the history in many peoples minds. Walking in, the decor was just what... (more)
skilar
on Yahoo Jul 05, 2008Sandwiches are good, not real big. The place is not always the cleanest. (more)
Citysearch User
on Citysearch May 26, 2008Phillipe's is the best french dip sandwich place is all of the country. The bread is so fresh and the mustard they use is amazing. I would definitely recommend this place to everyone.... (more)
nelson k
on Yahoo May 22, 2008this was the best french dip sandwich place ever. great price, great place, great people. had to go upstairs to eat cuz there were a few hundred people downstairs on friday at lunchtime. felt like i was in a 1910s school... (more)
anthony
on Yahoo May 22, 2008Maybe Lakers fan should just eat at the game. The lamb sandwich is the best with wither bleu cheese or ssiss cheese, a side of their great potatoe salad and a dill pickle. Better than out of any deli pack from the store.... (more)
CyclingFoodie
on Citysearch May 21, 2008Unless you have to go, just to say "I've been there" steer clear of this tourist trap. Poor quantity (sandwiches are very small) Poor quality ( I tasted the bread, remeber the old "where's the beef?!?!") (pickled... (more)
ErikH
on Yahoo May 21, 2008If you're leaving by train and don't want mexican this is the best place around. Colorful crowd, everbody is nice. (more)
sanchoClause
on Yahoo May 04, 2008The sandwiches here are not all that & flavorless. Buy your own deli meats, buns & save some money. (more)
eatme
on Yahoo Apr 10, 2008This place is great. A landmark AND great sandwiches and chili too. (more)
Citysearch User
on Citysearch Mar 31, 2008This place has been around for a long time. The french dipped sandwiches are terrific. You can get lamb, turkey, beef, and they are all great. It gets crowed during lunch hour. Lots of people from downtown go for lunch.... (more)
roselyn
on Yahoo Mar 22, 2008how did you say that your restaurant was haven't change in prices? (more)
Citysearch User
on Citysearch Mar 16, 2008For realm the best French dip of your life. Good side items, all served a la carte at prices that are so low you'll do a double take. Also, wines by the glass at unreal prices, though I am not sure who's enjoying a glass of... (more)
a Yahoo! Local User
on Yahoo Mar 11, 2008I didn't find the sandwiches here that good. They are your average sandwich and I probably won't go back... (more)
Bader A
on Yahoo Feb 16, 2008over rated........ we went there to eat for lunch and the dijon mustard is super hot!!!!!!! you would think they would say something but after we left upset and still hungry, some guy outside started giving us a hard... (more)
Aine de Burca
on Yahoo Feb 02, 2008I have been to LA six times over the past 7 years and each time I am there I always visit Philippe's for their French dipped beef sandwiches and homemade lemonade. I think their sandwiches are fabulous and the staff are... (more)
PIERCE
on Yahoo Feb 01, 2008An L.A. ICON of a Restraunt, others have came and gone over the years that this place has been in business. Stood the test of time. Ive heard of the place for years and have only REALLY Started to eat there with in the last 7... (more)
Carol
on Yahoo Jan 25, 2008This place is.awful....: This place is.awful. Stale bread with grey meat that tastes like the recycled paper plates they serve them on. I think nostalgia more than anything else brings people back.... (more)
LV Foodie
on Yahoo Jan 24, 2008This is a wonderful sandwich shop. My dad and I used to stop here when we would visit L.A. We always made a stop before we went to the airport and get the macaroni salad and a lamb sandwich with their extra spicy mustard... (more)
a Yahoo! Local User
on Yahoo Jan 10, 2008a must stop......gre...: a must stop......great sandwiches (more)
Monica
on Yahoo Jan 02, 2008Nothing like heading to Philippe's before a Dodger game. Best place to grab a french dipped sandwich, some potatoe salad, and a glass of pink lemonade. Tradition. (more)
heninger85
on Yahoo Jan 01, 2008My daughter and I visited Philippe's after the Rose Bowl. We were visiting from Illinois and had to "cab it". The cab never came to get us. The employees at Philippes took care of us and helped us get back to the hotel. The... (more)
Victoria
on Yahoo Dec 28, 2007Really good food and cool compartments to eat in. If you are lucky, you can get a small room to yourself, looking out onto the busy streets of Downtown LA. It's also cheap, which is always good.... (more)
yummmay
on Yahoo Dec 27, 2007Been going to Phillipe's since I was a small child. We always sat in the booths in the back, and I loved looking at all the circus memorabilia and the paper straws. Definately a must for any tourists visiting China Town... (more)
Tim M
on Yahoo Dec 25, 2007Philippe's has been in LA over 70 years. My dad used to take me here before attending Dodger games. I am now an attorney for a firm in Downtown and find myself slipping over to Philppe's, rather than the fufu restaurants... (more)
jansydmom
on Yahoo Nov 29, 2007No other like Phillippe !! It's not the least expensive sandwich but well worth every penny and the ambiance just takes me back. The quality of food is excellent, meats are very lean and produce fresh. The location is... (more)
coachcharlesayso
on Yahoo Nov 10, 2007the lamb or porrk sandwiches with swiss cheese, definitely a side of straight chili with cheese, pickled eggs and their unique cole slaw. And don't forget a glass of lemonade to wash down all that delicious... (more)
ray.montano
on Yahoo Nov 08, 2007WOW brings back memories. For me it was French Sandwich & potatoe Salad. When is the area be sure to also visit " The Hat" in Alhambra, for the best Pastrami & Fries.... (more)
fizz
on Yahoo Nov 08, 2007Went to LA on business and had the french dip for lunch. Great sandwich, cool little place and excellent staff. A must try when you're in the area (more)
Renay @ Airgas
on Yahoo Nov 08, 2007There is nothing like the french dip sandwich before a Dodger game. Washed down with their delicious lemonade, it is the best!! (more)
Maria
on Yahoo Oct 09, 2007My dad was born in Watts, Ca in 1925 and ate French dip sandwiches here all his life. He has taken me there since I was a kid, I was born in 1979. I don't even live in the state of California anymore and I cannot wait to take my... (more)
Sokalina
on Yahoo Oct 09, 2007Been coming here for over 30 years...definitely one of the best sandwiches and all around eating "experiences" in the United States. Old School place with plenty of history...my favorites are either the lamb or... (more)
craftylady718
on Yahoo Sep 13, 2007Wow does this bring back memories!! Our family used to eat at Philippe's all the time and it was DELICIOUS!!! I live in FL now and there is nothing like it anywhere...if you are in LA by all means GO!!Enjoy a true... (more)
michelaay
on Yahoo Sep 13, 2007I have eaten at Phillpe's since I was a child in the 70's. It is an experiance not soon to be forgotten the brown mustard on the french dip is wonderful. Everyone should eat at Phillipe's for the true L.A. experiance... (more)
swchiefhogger
on Yahoo Sep 13, 2007Yuck!!! Bad service, overpriced bland sandwiches. The Subway a block away is better! (more)
yaya
on Yahoo Sep 13, 2007the sandwiches are ok and they are not a dollar, but let me tell you that the coffee is good. i don't know if its because its only .5 or because its really good. love that place for its coffee, not so much the sandwiches... (more)
yo momma
on Yahoo Sep 03, 2007Excellent sandwiches! the portions are small but only a dollar hello! love it (more)
photo.prose7
on Yahoo Aug 30, 2007I have been going to Philippes since 1970 and any time that I have a yen for a French dip sandwich I head downtown and sink my teeth in to one of Philippes. It is probably one of the best that I have ever tasted and the drive is... (more)
Dee-Dee
on Yahoo Aug 23, 2007This is the best place in the ENTIRE world to eat! My family and I live in Irvine and my Mom and Brother are on their way there today! (more)
Ziggy
on Yahoo Aug 18, 2007Philippe's - .09 cents for a cuppa Joe!: Philippe's the Original - it is simply the best french dip sandwich ever. Don't forget to ask for the double dip. (more)
Chi
on Yahoo Aug 12, 2007They claim to be the inventor of the French dip sandwich. I'm not sure if this is true or not, but their sandwiches are pretty darn good. (more)
a Yahoo! Local User
on Yahoo Aug 02, 2007Delicious!!!: I don't think I had a better tasting sandwich than Phillipe's! My mom and dad took me in the beginning of the year!...the people were kind of obnoxious but over all a great lunch!... (more)
shandenanne
on Yahoo Aug 02, 2007Been going there all my life...: The lamb dip sandwiches are the best on the planet! The custard is really good too! This place has it all- a nostalgic atmosphere, fast service, and the BEST food!... (more)
a Yahoo! Local User
on Yahoo Aug 02, 2007SANDWICHES, SAWDUST AND COFFEE FOR A DIME: My grandparents started going to Philippe's when they moved to Los Angeles in the 1920s. When my dad was a kid in the 1930s, they lived up on Sunset Blvd. not far from the... (more)
Darkjstz
on Yahoo Aug 02, 2007One of LA's best: Say what you will about NY Sandwiches - but LA has three of the Best - Cole's (which also claims it invented the French dip), Langer's which has the best Pastrami sandwich I've ever had; and Philippe's.... (more)
R. Owen J
on Yahoo Aug 02, 2007I remember: I remember the first time my ex took me to philippes he told me that they had the best french dip sandwhichs in the world and did I belive him no ?... (more)
Observer
on Yahoo Jul 19, 2007Best Sandwiches in LA!: Phillippe's is unique, there is nothing else like it in LA. The french dipped sandwiches are amazing, as are all of the side dishes. The cold slaw must be tasted to be believed, and don't miss the... (more)
LA HaPpY13420
on Yahoo Jul 19, 2007Good food!: This place is tasty the double dipped beef dip is very good and tasty along with the slaw and baked apple! Don't forget to ask for a side of pickles and yellow chili's and be careful with the mustard it is very,... (more)
Eileen
on Yahoo Jul 16, 2007it's the best in alll the land.: i hve been going there sicne i was little my mom took me there i would tell evey body who like's dips go try it out and there chile oh my gosh. (more)
sprinklesgirl
on Citysearch Jul 15, 2007this place is tasty & addicting, You really can't go wrong here. service is fast, just have your cash ready. I love the roast beef double dipped!!! (more)
Ed M
on Yahoo Jun 13, 2007Philippe: THE BEST!!! I retired 5 years ago after 22 years in L.A. Philippe's is one of the things I miss after moving back east. They have great breakfast also. The secret is to know when to get good service. Before 10 am... (more)
richard m
on Yahoo Jun 13, 2007best in the west: A definite landmark and must eat at in los angeles place! Bring your wallet and time,because you might find yourself staying a while...If you can take the hot mustard,horse radish et al,then you will... (more)
jonc
on Yahoo May 18, 2007PHILLPE'S THE BEST !!: Oh my God. My father used to take us there when we were kids.over 50yrs ago. My family have been in L.A. Since 1905 so I'm sure my Grandfather or Great Uncle's took my father. It truly is the best !!... (more)
foos_king_2000
on Yahoo May 18, 2007The Best French Dip: When you place is open for close to 100 years, you know it is a landmark. The sandwhiches are delicious! (more)
humblepie_70
on Yahoo May 17, 2007Absolutely The Best French Dip Beef: sandwich in Los Angeles, and arguably elsewhere too. I used to go there when I was in college, and quite a few times afterwards. When I knew I was moving to Phoenix, I made sure I... (more)
Mary Jane
on Yahoo Mar 14, 2007Philippe's French Dip - Los Angeles, California: If you happen to be in downtown Los Angeles, my favorite place to go for lunch is Philippe's. They have out of this world french dip sandwiches! The restaurant has been... (more)
Charleen C
on Yahoo Feb 06, 2007Really Miss not being close: I grew up in southern calif. I started going to Philippes when I was around 4yrs old. I am now ..well lets its now about 55yrs later. I now live on the central coast but have their mustard... (more)
Senor Cosmonaut
on Yahoo Dec 21, 2006Nothing quite like it!: Philippe's is a Los Angeles landmark that serves the best French-dipped sandwiches around...even better than P.E. Cole's (my second favorite sandwich place in downtown). Walk on in (I go... (more)
Manuel C
on Yahoo Dec 15, 2006YES! can't wait to get back: I've been going since I was little I can remeber when my Father use to bring us here on the way to Indio to see my Causins, Now I'm 52 living in Ohio I make sure I pass threw here just get 2 pork... (more)
dalim80
on Citysearch Nov 19, 2006This place is Great I have been coming here since I was little they have the greatest french dip sandwiches out there. Also you must try their chili it is so good. The place is in the middle of downtown LA so if you want to... (more)
gsxr knee dragon
on Yahoo Nov 03, 2006the best: These are the best french dip sandwiches you can have..make sure you also try the straight chili with your order!! mmmm..also great before or after a dodgers game!! (more)
alisonkramer
on Citysearch Nov 01, 2006Apparently this is the original creator of the French Dip Sandwich. WHether or not that legend is true, the food is SO cheap (coffee is 9 cents!) and decent. The only downside is that they don't give you any au jus to dip... (more)
jenmempin
on Citysearch Oct 30, 2006A great bargain for your buck. Their legendary french dip sandwiches are the best this side of town! (more)
Chica Terremoto
on Yahoo Sep 29, 2006On your visit to L.A.: For all tourists, please circle Phillipe's on your map- you will definitely not regret it. Best French-dip sandwiches around, with a quirky old-style decor to boot....sawdust on the floor and... (more)
crazy4twins2
on Citysearch Aug 27, 2006Husband and kids got the French dip, just ok.... not much meat at all. I got the turkey dip and it was just ok as well. The potato salad on the other hand was awesome! The kids were totally grossed out by the pickled pigs... (more)
inspector72
on Citysearch Aug 07, 2006When I was a kid it was a very special treat, we were poor, to have Dad bring home sandwiched from Phillpe's. No after having grown up and able to cook myself I have found that I can make a much better sandwich at home.... (more)