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13h ago

Cole’s French Dip to Close August 3 After 117 Years

The shutdown highlights how rising costs, crime, bureaucracy squeeze independent eateries in Downtown Los Angeles.

The exterior of Cole’s French Dip in Downtown Los Angeles.
A French dip sandwich at Cole’s, which claims to have invented it.
Cole's French Dip announces its permanent closure.
After more than 100 years in business, Cole’s French Dip is closing its doors Aug. 3. (Photo by Hazel Lopez)

Overview

  • Cole’s French Dip will end service on August 3, marking the permanent closure of Los Angeles’s longest-running restaurant and saloon.
  • Owner Cedd Moses cited the global pandemic, Hollywood strikes, soaring rents, labor and goods costs, crime and legal burdens as factors behind the decision.
  • No buyer has been secured as closing date approaches, though Moses says he remains hopeful a new owner will preserve the restaurant’s tradition.
  • News of the shutdown leaked on social media over the weekend, triggering more than 1,000 comments as patrons and preservationists call for action.
  • Established in 1908 and honored as a city landmark in 1974, Cole’s cultural footprint includes appearances in films like Forrest Gump and TV’s The Lincoln Lawyer.