Philippe The Original

Step inside Philippe The Original and you’re transported to a different era entirely. This 107-year-old Chinatown institution looks and feels like it hasn’t changed in decades—sawdust still covers the floors, a nostalgic candy counter sits off to the side, and veteran servers who’ve been slinging sandwiches for three decades or more work the lines with practiced efficiency. It’s the kind of authentic old-school atmosphere that most historical restaurants only dream of achieving.

The main event here is the Double Dip Beef, and there’s a reason this place claims the title of French dip originator. The tender beef gets dunked twice in savory au jus, yet the bread maintains an impressive crunch despite its bath. Don’t skip the fiery house mustard waiting at your table—it’s the essential finishing touch that ties the whole experience together. While the beef dip is king, the rest of the menu holds its own with solid deli classics that prove Philippe’s knows what it’s doing across the board.

This is a cafeteria-style operation, so expect to queue up in one of several fast-moving lines before placing your order at the counter. The system works remarkably well, keeping things efficient even when the place is packed. The sprawling dining hall can accommodate large groups easily, making it ideal for everything from quick solo lunches to dinner with the whole family before a downtown adventure.

Whether you’re showing visiting relatives a true LA landmark, grabbing a budget-friendly bite that won’t disappoint, or just craving one of the city’s most iconic sandwiches, Philippe’s delivers without the letdown that plagues so many historic spots. This is one field trip destination that actually lives up to the hype.