LOS ANGELES, CA – Cole’s, a venerable institution in downtown Los Angeles with a history stretching back 117 years, has confirmed its permanent closure scheduled for August 3, 2025. The restaurant, established in 1908 and widely recognized as the alleged originator of the iconic French dip sandwich, is set to dim its lights for the final time, marking the end of more than a century of culinary tradition in the city.
Located within the historic Pacific Electric Building in the heart of downtown LA, Cole’s has been a fixture in the city’s dining landscape, serving generations of patrons. Its longevity and historical significance made it more than just a restaurant; it was a tangible link to Los Angeles’s past.
The Storied History of Cole’s
Founded in 1908, Cole’s P.E. Buffet, as it was originally known, opened its doors during a transformative period for Los Angeles. The restaurant quickly became a popular spot, particularly benefiting from its proximity to the busy Pacific Electric Railway terminal, hence its original name and location in the Pacific Electric Building. For decades, it served commuters, businessmen, and residents alike.
Central to Cole’s fame is its association with the creation of the French dip sandwich. While often contested with crosstown rival Philippe’s, Cole’s maintains its claim to originating the beloved sandwich. The commonly recounted story involves house chef Jack Garlinghouse. Legend has it that in 1908, Garlinghouse dipped bread into Au Jus (the natural juices from the roasted meat) to soften it for a customer with sore gums. The customer enjoyed the moist sandwich so much that he returned the next day requesting it again, purportedly coining the term “French dip” due to the customer’s French heritage. This simple, perhaps accidental, innovation cemented Cole’s place in American culinary lore, even if the origin remains a subject of friendly debate.
Factors Leading to Closure
The decision to close after such a long and distinguished run was not made lightly. Cole’s management cited a confluence of challenging factors that ultimately proved insurmountable. Foremost among these are the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. While many businesses have struggled to fully recover from the unprecedented disruption of the past few years, the pandemic’s impact on dining habits, foot traffic in downtown areas, and operational costs has presented persistent hurdles for establishments like Cole’s.
Compounding the challenges, increasing labor expenses have placed significant pressure on the restaurant’s finances. Rising minimum wages, higher costs for benefits, and the competitive landscape for skilled hospitality workers have all contributed to a substantial increase in operating expenditures. For a historic restaurant with traditional staffing models, absorbing these costs while maintaining affordability for its diverse clientele became increasingly difficult.
Additionally, the impact of the 2023 writers and actors strikes in Hollywood significantly affected businesses in the Los Angeles area, particularly those in and around entertainment industry hubs. While downtown LA is not the primary location for many studios, the strikes led to a broader economic slowdown, reduced corporate spending, and decreased patronage from industry professionals who frequent establishments across the city, including downtown restaurants like Cole’s. The prolonged nature of these labor disputes created an uncertain economic climate that further strained the restaurant’s viability.
Owner’s Reflection and Community Impact
Owner Cedd Moses, whose company operates Cole’s and several other downtown venues, issued a statement regarding the closure. In his remarks, Moses expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support of the restaurant’s dedicated customers over the decades. He also offered sincere thanks to the long-serving and hardworking staff whose efforts were integral to Cole’s operations and atmosphere. His words acknowledged the deep connection the restaurant held with both those who dined there and those who worked there.
The closure of Cole’s represents more than just the loss of a dining spot; it is the farewell to a piece of Los Angeles history. For 117 years, it served as a gathering place, a repository of stories, and a symbol of downtown’s enduring character. Its alleged role in inventing the French dip sandwich ensures its name will remain part of the city’s culinary narrative, even after its doors close.
Looking Ahead
The final day of service for Cole’s is set for August 3, 2025. Until then, patrons will have the opportunity to visit the historic location in the Pacific Electric Building, savor the atmosphere, and perhaps enjoy one last French dip sandwich from the establishment that claims to have started it all. The end of its 117-year run marks a significant moment for Los Angeles, highlighting the evolving landscape of the city’s downtown and the challenges faced by legacy businesses in a rapidly changing economic environment.
