Philippe the Original, a Los Angeles staple, has been serving up delicious French dip sandwiches since 1908. With a history spanning over a century, this iconic eatery has become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating story of Philippe the Original, exploring its humble beginnings, its rise to fame, and what makes it a beloved institution in the City of Angels.
A Humble Beginning: The Early Years of Philippe the Original
Philippe the Original was founded by Philippe Mathieu, a French immigrant who arrived in the United States in the late 19th century. Mathieu, who had previously worked as a chef in Paris, opened a small deli on the corner of Aliso and Ord Streets in Los Angeles’ historic Olvera Street district. The deli, which was initially called “Philippe’s,” quickly gained popularity among locals for its mouth-watering sandwiches and soups.
The Birth of the French Dip Sandwich
According to legend, the French dip sandwich was invented by Philippe Mathieu himself. The story goes that a local police officer, who was a regular at the deli, asked Mathieu to dip his sandwich in the juices of the roast beef. Mathieu, who was happy to oblige, dipped the sandwich in the juices, and the French dip sandwich was born. The sandwich quickly became a hit among locals, and it remains one of the most popular items on the menu to this day.
Rise to Fame: Philippe the Original Becomes a Los Angeles Institution
Over the years, Philippe the Original has become a beloved institution in Los Angeles. The eatery has been featured in numerous publications, including the Los Angeles Times, the New York Times, and Bon Appétit. It has also been the subject of several documentaries and has been featured on food television shows such as “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” and “Man v. Food.”
Celebrity Patrons and Presidential Visits
Philippe the Original has been a favorite among celebrities for decades. The eatery has been visited by everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Johnny Depp. In fact, the eatery’s famous “Wall of Fame” features photographs of many of its celebrity patrons. Philippe the Original has also been visited by several U.S. presidents, including Harry Truman and Barack Obama.
What Makes Philippe the Original So Special?
So, what makes Philippe the Original so special? For starters, the eatery’s commitment to using only the freshest ingredients is unparalleled. The roast beef, which is slow-cooked in-house, is tender and flavorful, and the bread is freshly baked every day. The eatery’s famous au jus, which is made from a secret recipe, is the perfect accompaniment to the sandwich.
A Family Tradition: The Mathieu Family’s Commitment to Quality
Philippe the Original has remained a family-owned business for over a century. The Mathieu family’s commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every aspect of the eatery. From the moment you walk in the door, you are greeted with a warm smile and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff, many of whom have been working at the eatery for decades, are knowledgeable and friendly, and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the menu.
Philippe the Original Today
Today, Philippe the Original is still going strong. The eatery has expanded to include several locations throughout the Los Angeles area, but the original location on Aliso and Ord Streets remains the most popular. The menu has also expanded to include a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups, but the French dip sandwich remains the star of the show.
Awards and Accolades
Philippe the Original has received numerous awards and accolades over the years. The eatery has been named one of the “Top 10 Sandwich Shops in the Country” by USA Today, and has been featured in the Los Angeles Times’ “Best of LA” issue. The eatery has also received a certificate of recognition from the City of Los Angeles for its contributions to the city’s culinary scene.
Conclusion
Philippe the Original is a true Los Angeles institution. With a history spanning over a century, this iconic eatery has become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. From its humble beginnings as a small deli on Olvera Street to its current status as a beloved institution, Philippe the Original has remained committed to quality and tradition. Whether you are a foodie, a history buff, or just looking for a delicious meal, Philippe the Original is a must-visit destination.
Plan Your Visit
If you are planning a visit to Philippe the Original, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- The original location is open seven days a week from 6am to 10pm.
- The eatery is located at 1001 N. Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
- The menu includes a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups, but the French dip sandwich is the star of the show.
- Be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours.
- Don’t forget to try the eatery’s famous au jus, which is made from a secret recipe.
By following these tips, you can ensure a memorable dining experience at Philippe the Original. Whether you are a local or just visiting Los Angeles, this iconic eatery is a must-visit destination.
What is Philippe the Original, and how did it become a Los Angeles institution?
Philippe the Original is a historic restaurant located in Los Angeles, California, that has been serving high-quality French dip sandwiches since 1908. The restaurant was founded by Philippe Mathieu, a French immigrant who brought his culinary skills to the United States. Philippe’s innovative approach to sandwich-making, which involved dipping the bread in the juices of the roast meat, quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike.
Over the years, Philippe the Original has become an integral part of Los Angeles’ culinary landscape, attracting celebrities, politicians, and everyday people who come to enjoy its signature sandwiches. The restaurant’s commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking methods has helped it maintain its reputation as a beloved institution in the city. Today, Philippe the Original is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience a taste of Los Angeles’ rich history and culture.
What is the story behind the invention of the French dip sandwich at Philippe the Original?
The origin of the French dip sandwich at Philippe the Original is a topic of much debate, with several stories circulating about how it came to be. According to one account, Philippe Mathieu accidentally dropped a sandwich in a pan of au jus, and the customer, who was a police officer, loved the resulting flavor and texture. Another story claims that a customer, who was a regular at the restaurant, asked Philippe to dip his sandwich in the juices to make it easier to eat.
Regardless of the true story behind its invention, the French dip sandwich has become an iconic dish at Philippe the Original, with the restaurant serving over 300,000 sandwiches per year. The sandwich typically consists of tender roast beef, crispy bread, and a side of au jus for dipping. The restaurant’s commitment to using only the highest-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods has helped to make the French dip sandwich a beloved favorite among locals and visitors alike.
What sets Philippe the Original apart from other restaurants in Los Angeles?
Philippe the Original is set apart from other restaurants in Los Angeles by its rich history, commitment to traditional cooking methods, and high-quality ingredients. The restaurant has been family-owned and operated for over 100 years, with each generation passing down its culinary secrets and techniques. This dedication to tradition and quality has helped to establish Philippe the Original as a beloved institution in the city.
Another factor that sets Philippe the Original apart is its unique atmosphere, which is reminiscent of a bygone era. The restaurant’s decor, which includes wooden booths, vintage photographs, and antique fixtures, transports customers back in time to the early 20th century. This nostalgic atmosphere, combined with the restaurant’s exceptional food and service, makes Philippe the Original a truly unique dining experience in Los Angeles.
What is the typical menu like at Philippe the Original, and are there any vegetarian or vegan options?
The menu at Philippe the Original is simple yet satisfying, with a focus on traditional French dip sandwiches, soups, and salads. The restaurant’s signature sandwich features tender roast beef, crispy bread, and a side of au jus for dipping. Other menu items include roast pork, roast lamb, and turkey sandwiches, as well as a variety of soups and salads. Philippe the Original also offers a selection of sides, including pickles, coleslaw, and potato salad.
While Philippe the Original is primarily a meat-based restaurant, there are some vegetarian options available, including a cheese sandwich and a variety of salads. Unfortunately, there are no vegan options on the menu, as the restaurant’s sandwiches typically feature animal-based ingredients. However, the restaurant is happy to accommodate special requests and can modify menu items to suit vegetarian or vegan dietary needs.
Has Philippe the Original received any notable awards or recognition over the years?
Yes, Philippe the Original has received numerous awards and recognition over the years for its exceptional food, service, and contributions to the Los Angeles community. The restaurant has been featured in several publications, including the Los Angeles Times, the New York Times, and Bon Appetit magazine. Philippe the Original has also been recognized by the James Beard Foundation as one of “America’s Classics,” a designation that honors regional restaurants that are “treasured for their quality food, local character, and lasting appeal.”
In addition to these accolades, Philippe the Original has received several awards from the City of Los Angeles, including a proclamation from the mayor declaring the restaurant a “Los Angeles Treasure.” The restaurant has also been inducted into the Culinary Historians of Southern California’s “Culinary Hall of Fame,” a recognition of its significant contributions to the city’s culinary heritage.
Can I take a tour of Philippe the Original, and are there any special events or activities available?
Yes, Philippe the Original offers guided tours of its historic restaurant, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the kitchen, dining areas, and other facilities. The tours are typically led by a member of the restaurant’s staff or a local historian and offer a unique perspective on the restaurant’s history and operations. Visitors can also explore the restaurant’s museum, which features exhibits on the history of Philippe the Original and the French dip sandwich.
Philippe the Original also hosts several special events throughout the year, including wine tastings, live music performances, and holiday celebrations. The restaurant is also available for private events, such as weddings, birthday parties, and corporate functions. Visitors can check the restaurant’s website or contact the staff directly to learn more about upcoming events and activities.
How can I support Philippe the Original and help preserve its legacy for future generations?
There are several ways to support Philippe the Original and help preserve its legacy for future generations. One way is to visit the restaurant and enjoy a meal, which helps to ensure the continued operation of this beloved institution. Visitors can also purchase merchandise, such as T-shirts, hats, and souvenirs, which helps to support the restaurant’s operations.
Philippe the Original also relies on donations and support from the community to help preserve its historic building and continue its culinary traditions. Visitors can make a donation to the restaurant’s preservation fund or become a member of the “Friends of Philippe” organization, which provides ongoing support for the restaurant’s operations and preservation efforts. By supporting Philippe the Original, visitors can help to ensure the continued success of this Los Angeles institution for generations to come.