The true origin of the French Dip sandwich has been lost over time, but luckily for Angelenos the two landmark restaurants that claim to be its originator, Philippe and Cole’s, are both located in Downtown LA.

Philippe the Original was opened by Philippe Mathieu in 1908 and has been at its current location on the edge of Chinatown since 1951. Philippe’s “official” version of the legend says the French Dip was born when Mathieu accidentally dropped a French roll into a roasting pan filled with drippings, and the policeman who ordered the sandwich agreed to eat it anyway. He and some friends returned the next day asking for the “dipped sandwich.” The cafeteria-style ordering routine at Philippe hasn’t changed in decades - queue up in front of the long deli counter and order from a “Carver.” The iconic sandwich can be made with roast beef, roast pork, leg of lamb, turkey or ham and is served on a French roll with several cheese options. You can ask for “single-dip,” “double-dip” or “wet.” Find a seat at a communal table and top your sandwich with a squeeze of potent hot mustard.