Anyone who knows anything about food in L.A. knows about Philippe. The birthplace of French Dipped Sandwiches, Philippe has been a Los Angeles institution for over a century. Located in downtown Los Angeles, by Alvaro St., Philippe has two parking lots to cater to its large everyday lunch rush, but don’t let the crowds scare you away!

The restaurant has a large counter with many lines that move quickly. Once you get to the counter you order your food and wait (for only a few minutes) at the counter while your food is being prepared. Then you sit at one of the many, large communal tables with stools and enjoy one of the best sandwiches L.A. has to offer.

While the menu is fairly extensive there is really only ne thing you can order; a French dipped sandwich. Within that category you can choose between beef, pork, lamb, pastrami, ham, and turkey. Beef is the classic, but Pastrami is my personal favorite. You also have the option to choose between ‘single dip,’ ‘double dip,’ and ‘wet,’ which is basically asking how much gravy you want on your sandwich. Trust me, you want it ‘wet.’ Once you get to your table, make sure to find the squeeze bottle full of homemade spicy mustard.

But that’s not all Philippe’s has to offer! The counter you order your food at is set up like a deli, with large vats of potato salad, macaroni salad, coleslaw, pickles, and more as options for sides. With lots of spices and a nice consistency, the potato salad was my favorite side. The coleslaw was also delicious. A little sweet and not too mayo-y it was exactly how I prefer my coleslaw.

1001 N. Alameda St.

Los Angeles, CA 90012

philippes.com