Philippe The Original

Philippe The Original, Los Angeles, CA

Roast Beef Sandwich, Potato Salad, Coleslaw

I remember watching the Travel Channel four years ago and watching episodes on historic restaurants in the U.S. The next restaurant up was Philippe The Original which was established in the early 1900s. The story tells about Philippe himself when he accidentally dropped the sliced french roll in the pan of sauce. The policeman who ordered, just accepted the way the sandwich was and returned the next day with his friends asking for more dipped sandwiches. This had become the beginning of  the “French Dipped Sandwich”. 

Well after waiting for years, I finally got to come with my sister and enjoy the experience of their dipped sandwich. As I walked inside, I noticed the restored look of the place. It seemed as if nothing was changed one bit. The furniture remained the same, the counters, telephone booths, uniforms of the employees, and of course the food. It was like re-living the 20’s all over again!

I ordered the original roast beef “double-dip” sandwich with a special side of their famous potato salad. They automatically make the sandwich from scratch as you pay and then hand it on a tray. The lines move quick and the food is handed off quick & fresh. My sister and I carried our trays as if we were kids in a school cafeteria and making our way to the community table. We sat on these low bar seats which were nice and comfy. The meat from the roast beef was tender and juicy; there were trimmings of light fatty ends and juice dripping. The bread still had it’s crunchy texture with a light covering from the juice. I squeezed a light amount of Philippe’s Hot Mustard which contained a creamy horseradish with spicy brown mustard. This topping is a must on the sandwich and should be used lightly due to the hotness of the mustard. Finally, their potato salad had a creamy texture with a sour pickle bite. It makes a great pair with the beef sandwich because it balances out the saltiness from the sandwich with the sweet & sour taste from the potato salad. 

I am thankful for having the opportunity to eat at historic establishment. This place has so much history and soul. Having the experience of trying the famous French Dipped Sandwich is something everyone should have; not because of the history of it but because their sandwiches are great tasting. The quality is all there from the way the beef is cooked, the freshly dripped jus, to the perfectly toasted roll. This deli spot is a must try for all!

- Thank you Mr. Officer for showcasing your palate. You just made history out of it.

Taken by: Allister de Vera

Philippe The Original, Los Angeles, CA