The City of Angels is also the city of foodies! Good thing we have countless restaurants that cater to us when we’re hungry — and some of them have been providing us with scrumptious meals for a long time now! Some of the oldest restaurants in LA are so well-loved, that they’ve stuck around for so long in order to give us (and the generations before us — and hopefully, the ones after us) the best dishes they can whip up.

5 Oldest Restaurants in LA

1. Philippe the Original (1908)

To most Angelenos, when they’re in the downtown area, it’s almost always guaranteed that Philippe’s is an option whenever they think of where they should grab a meal! This restaurant serves its dishes cafeteria-style — where one has to line up with their food trays and choose which dish they’d like to eat — making this popular to people of almost every demographic. 

Moreover, Philippe’s is often cited as the inventor of the “French dip.” Additionally, their chili, stews, and sandwiches remain a favorite among Angelenos.

2. Cole’s (1908)

Cole’s is also another of the oldest restaurants in LA that’s credited for inventing the French dip sandwich by some — and both Philippe’s and Cole’s were established in the same year. But regardless of who the true inventor is, we’re not going to complain, are we? After all, that means there are more French dip options for us!

Cole’s is also considered to be “the oldest pub in LA” — and you can tell by the design of the establishment that it’s been around for a while. Nonetheless, the place remains cozy and their sandwiches remain delectable! Did you know Cole’s, one of the oldest restaurants in LA, has a “secret” speakeasy (a cocktail bar named The Varnish) tucked away in the back?

3. Magee’s Kitchen (1917/1934)

One of the best things about living in LA is it’s home to glamorous people, but there’s always room for casual clothing, living, and dining! That’s why Magee’s Kitchen also remains one of the Angelenos’ favorite Farmer’s Market stopovers! But don’t be surprised if lots of people do get out of their way just to visit Magee’s Kitchen. Their corned beef sandwiches and delicious side dishes are — indeed — worthy of traveling there for.

But those who can’t go to Magee’s Kitchen can order via Doordash, Postmates, or Grubhub — because everyone deserves access to a good deli!

4. Musso & Frank Grill (1919)

Musso & Frank Grill is not just considered to be one of the oldest restaurants in LA. To some writers, going to this establishment was significant to their careers — Musso & Frank Grill lies a few doors next to the Stanley Rose Book Store, and the restaurant was situated across the street where the Screen Writers Guild was located.

In 2019, the restaurant was also given its own Hollywood Walk of Fame Star just outside the establishment on Hollywood Boulevard. According to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, Musso & Frank Grill was given the star as a form of “award of excellence.”

If you plan on going to Musso & Frank Grill, you can try the steaks that they’re known for — as well as their lobster thermidor. But almost all of their menu items are delicious. That’s why Musso & Frank Grill is dear to us Angelenos!

5. Barney’s Beanery (1920)

If you can’t decide between wanting to eat or have a drink, or if you’re unsure if you’re looking for a pub or a diner, Barney’s Beanery has got you covered! This beautiful, colorful, and automobile accessory-adorned Route 66 staple is over a hundred years old — yet people from all walks of life visit Barney’s Beanery for a good reason!

Barney’s Beanery is famous for its chili that pairs so perfectly with the tortilla chips it’s served on the side with. Moreover, their burgers, calzones, burritos, quesadillas, and pizza dishes are also just as satiating — but you would instantly know! The aroma of the spices and caramelized onions will be enough to make you hungry — or hungrier than you initially thought you were.

Conclusion

Angelenos love food — and the people, restaurants, and establishments that provide them with delicious meals. Some of the oldest restaurants in LA serve not only culturally diverse dishes, and they’re not just non-discriminating establishments — but they also offer an experience — and a feeling that you’re home. That’s why these mainstay restaurants are dear to “el pueblo.”

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