Oldest LA restaurant permanently closing after 117 years | Official Website of Louis Velazquez, entrepreneur, finance guy and tech innovator

It is uncommon for a restaurant to stay in business for over a century, so when one is open for that long, it becomes a local legend and everyone’s go-to hangout spot.

Every city and town has a much-loved local restaurant that has stood the test of time, a place where many have created lasting memories and fostered meaningful connections.

💵💰 Don’t miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet’s free daily newsletter 💵💰

Although it’s sad when a place that brought us so much joy closes forever, this unfortunate event has become increasingly common in the restaurant sector.

Running a restaurant is no piece of cake, especially in today’s uncertain economy and amid a consumer slowdown that has been so disruptive, even major restaurant chains have been forced to close locations or file for bankruptcy.

Now, a local LA favorite has reached the end of its long-lived run after 117 years in business.

Cole’s French Dip announces its permanent closure.

Image Source&colon; Shutterstock

LA’s oldest restaurant is founded

Cole’s French Dip was established in 1908 by Harry Cole inside the historic Pacific Electric Building, making it the oldest public house in Los Angeles.

The restaurant has become one of the most iconic eateries in the city because it claims to have invented the French dip sandwich after the house chef, Jack Garlinghouse, dipped bread in meat broth (the “jus” accompanying a sandwich served “au jus”) to make it easier for customers with sensitive gums to chew. However, rival LA restaurant Philippe the Original has also claimed the title for years.

More Food News:

In 2008, Pouring With Heart, previously called 213 Nightlife, acquired Cole’s to continue the restaurant’s legacy. It spent $1.6 million on renovations and brought in chef Neal Fraser to improve the original French dip recipe.

Cole’s is so iconic to LA culture that it has appeared in various classic films and shows, including “Forrest Gump,” “The Lincoln Lawyer,” and “Mad Men.”

Cole’s French Dip delivers devastating news to the its fans

After 117 years of serving French dip sandwiches to Los Angeles locals, Cole’s French Dip announced that it will permanently close its doors on August 3.

Unfortunately, being a local favorite didn’t make the beloved restaurant immune to the aftermath of uncontrollable events, including the Covid pandemic, the SAG-AFTRA strikes of 2023, and steadily rising operational costs.

Compounded by an uncertain economy, these challenges created a financial burden that ultimately proved unsustainable for Cole’s, leaving it unable to pay rent.

Although shocking to the entire community, this was a devastating event waiting to follow after Cedd Moses, the leading partner of Pouring With Heart, closed Varnish, a speakeasy inside Cole’s, the year prior, after 15 years in business.

“We have cherished our time serving the Downtown community, and will continue to craft great drinks and our renowned French dip sandwiches until we shutter. We care deeply about our family of staff and are immensely grateful for our amazing guests who have supported Cole’s over the years,” said Moses in a statement to Eater.