Philippe the Original

An 1908 sawdust-floor institution that claims to have invented the French dip — order the sandwich, choose your dip level, grab a long communal table. A friend sends you for cheap, delicious history near Union Station. Caveat: it's busy and cash-preferred, and it's a nostalgia trip more than fine dining.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What should I order?

The French dip — beef, pork, lamb, or turkey — and pick how wet you want the dip, single or double. Add a side of their famous cheap coffee and a slice of pie for the full experience.

Is it worth it, honestly?

For the history, price, and atmosphere, yes. Don't expect a refined meal — expect sawdust floors, a solid sandwich, and a genuine slice of old Los Angeles.

What are Philippe's hours?

Open daily, roughly 6am-10pm, with breakfast served early. The wide hours make it easy to fit in around a train or a Dodgers game.

How does the ordering work?

You line up at the carving counter, order from an apron-clad server, then find a seat at the long communal tables. It's fast and old-school — have your order ready when you reach the front.

Is it good before a game or event?

Perfect — it's close to Chinatown, Union Station, and a quick hop to Dodger Stadium, cheap and quick. A classic pre-game or post-arrival stop.

Did they really invent the French dip?

Philippe's and a couple of other spots both claim it; the origin story here dates to 1918. True or not, it's a beloved century-old ritual and the sandwich holds up.

How do I get there?

It's a short walk from Union Station on the A/B/D lines, making it one of the easiest transit meals in LA. There's also a parking lot if you drive.

Is it cash only?

It's cash-preferred and famously cheap, so bring bills to keep the line moving. There's an ATM on site if you're caught short.

Nearby in Ask Los Angeles

• Olvera StreetNeighborhood0.26 km · 3 min walk
• Placita OlveraRestaurant0.26 km · 3 min walk
• EndorffeineCafé0.34 km · 4 min walk
• Union StationAttraction0.39 km · 5 min walk
• Howlin' Ray'sRestaurant0.39 km · 5 min walk