A gunman robbed the landmark Pink's Hot Dogs early Monday, stealing a tip jar when employees were unable to open a safe, Los Angeles police said.

The thief, who was captured on surveillance video, walked up to the restaurant at the intersection La Brea Ave. near Melrose Ave. around 3:35 a.m. and demanded cash from a safe.

When employees said they could not access the money, the man stole a tip jar from the counter.

Pink's, known for its chili dogs and long lines, was founded in 1939 opened it's La Brea Avenue restaurant in 1946.

Wilshire Division Robbery detectives are handling the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the station's detective desk at (213) 922-8205

--Andrew Blankstein

Photo: Pinks Hot Dog stand in Hollywood. L.A. Times file