Cole’s French Dip Now Set to Stay Open Through Mid-September

Introduction to the Reprieve

Following a July announcement that Cole’s French Dip would close on Aug. 3 after 117 years in business as the city’s oldest restaurant and bar, there now seems to be a glimmer of hope for the iconic eatery.
In a statement emailed to the Southern California News Group restaurant, officials said the restaurant — one of two historic L.A. spots that claim to have invented the French Dip sandwich — will remain open for another 45 days thanks to an influx of customers who have come to Cole’s ever since the closure was announced.

Reasons for the Initial Closure Announcement

In early July, Cedd Moses, founder of Pouring with Heart, which owns Cole’s, cited myriad reasons for its August closure such as the global pandemic, the actors and writers strikes, overall crime, as well as the consistently rising costs of labor and goods, unsustainably high rents, mounting bureaucracy and legal exposure.

Community Response and Advocacy

Restaurant officials also credited local groups like DTLA Residents Association, Independent Hospitality Coalition, Historic Core BID, Central City Association and the DTLA Alliance for advocating for the restaurant.
“This love and these rallying cries from the LA community have been so heartfelt during this difficult time –– it’s not only extremely appreciated, but truly eye-opening that, with enough noise and enough fight, change can actually be made,” the statement read.

History of Cole’s French Dip

Located at 118 E. Sixth St., in the Pacific Electric Building, Cole’s was founded by Henry Cole in 1908 and in 1974 it was dedicated as a city Historic-Cultural Landmark. Cole’s claim to fame is inventing the French dip sandwich, which nearby establishment Philippe The Original has also claimed.
Cole’s was purchased by Moses and underwent a $1.6 million renovation that brought it back to its 1908 state, with original glass lighting and restored penny-tile floors plus a 40-foot mahogany bar adorned with old photos that depict the history of Cole’s and Los Angeles.

Extended Operation and Customer Response

And after the news got out customers began lining up to get into the downtown Los Angeles restaurant.
“Diners and imbibers have been visiting from all across Southern California to say their goodbyes, for which we couldn’t be more grateful. Though it’s likely not going to be forever, it is still a gift to keep the ovens on, the drinks flowing and our family of staff employed for a little bit longer,” the statement continued.

Conclusion

The decision to extend the operation of Cole’s French Dip through mid-September is a testament to the power of community support and the enduring appeal of this historic establishment. As the restaurant continues to serve its iconic French dip sandwiches and other offerings, it remains a beloved part of Los Angeles’ culinary and cultural heritage.

FAQs

• Q: Why was Cole’s French Dip initially set to close?
  A: The initial closure was due to a combination of factors including the global pandemic, rising costs, and unsustainably high rents.
• Q: What led to the extension of Cole’s operation?
  A: An influx of customers and support from the community, along with advocacy from local groups, prompted the decision to keep the restaurant open for another 45 days.
• Q: What is Cole’s French Dip known for?
  A: Cole’s is known for its claim to inventing the French dip sandwich, a historic landmark status, and its rich history in Los Angeles.
• Q: When was Cole’s French Dip founded?
  A: Cole’s was founded by Henry Cole in 1908.
• Q: How long will Cole’s French Dip remain open?
  A: The restaurant is now set to stay open through mid-September, extending its initial closure date of August 3.
  Originally Published: July 30, 2025 at 3:33 PM PDT