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Category: Sandwiches
Neighborhood: Downtown3-7pm, Monday - Friday Saloon Special: $2 Off All Spirits and Cocktails, $1 Off Beer & Wine. Drink Specials All Day Tuesday.
Mon-Wed. 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Thu. 11:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Fri-Sat. 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Sun. 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
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I'm a big Phillippes fan but I've got to say...Cole's beef dip sangwich is better. The bread was nice and crusty and they give you the au jus on the side so you dont have to eat the entire sangwich with a soggy roll. The mac and cheese was very good as well. The spicy mustard is quite good but this is one area where Phillippes wins out over Cole's. Phillippes mustard is much, much hotter and therefore better.
I was in here on a Saturday afternoon and the place was pretty empty so service was prompt and good. They have Franziskaner on tap, that alone is worth 1 to 1.5 stars just on it's own.
Many years ago, the infamous Mickey Cohen, a member of the mafia--make that the jewish mafia--the kosher mafia--enjoyed a good, if not great french dip....as long as it was kosher.
Now, in 2009, as I requested his seat, I contemplated: the kosher mafia...must have had a lot of accountants. And they must have done alot of this: http://video.yahoo.com...
I'm going to give Cole's one star for hanging in there all these years as a part of Los Angeles history. It's menu, while limited, consists of the lamb dip, pastrami dip, beef dip, grilled cheese, spicy garlic fries, mac and cheese and french onion soup.
We love pastrami, so we ordered the half pastrami and a side of garlic french fries...fries that I proceeded to taste for the rest of the day....mmmmm....garlic....
The service was nice and we didn't have to wait long at all. I also managed to peruse their selections of whiskey, which means I'll be back here for happy hour.
If you don't mind walking through old downtown through a midst of crazies and dirty air, you might just like Cole's. Have fun.
Sometimes, it's good to judge a book by its cover. That was how my friend and I found this historic sandwich shop--as we walked along Main street early one night, Cole's neon sign caught our attention. We walked closer and upon inspection of the lacquered signs and gold leaf window messaging, I was drawn just like a moth to a candlelight--must be the graphic design blood in me.
After the shortest deliberation ever with my friend (literally an exchange of nods), we walked in and grabbed a open booth. While we waited for our waitress, we soaked in the interiors. Felted red wallpaper lined the sides of the dining room, with countless picture frames of black & white photos stuck in a haphazard grid. There was also antique lamps with Cole's painted on the big glass bulbs. It was a feast for the eyes.
The food was up to par as well, as they should be since according to their menu, Cole's was the originator of the French dip. I had the pastrami dip while my friend had their original beef dip. Since we placed our orders before 7p, we were able to get the half-sandwich and fries combo for just $5 via their happy hour special.
The combo came in a gold and black wicker basket--a generous serving of shaved pastrami on a toasted french roll, orange tinted spicy-garlic fries and a separate plate that housed a steaming cup of au jus and a single pickle spear.
The sandwich was solid, with tender beef and a crispy roll that was lightly scented by garlic oil. A short dip in the au jus gave the sandwich an extra layer of flavor as the bread soaked up the broth. Although, I must say, Cole's has nothing on Johnnie's in Culver City. Side note: According to Cole's menu, they started serving dip sandwiches to accommodate patrons with bad gums. Not a very appealing story, but interesting nevertheless.
The spicy garlic fries were piping hot from the fryer as they were inadequately drained, but tasted good with the added garlic flavored oil. Now that I think about it, it tasted almost the same as the Japanese shrimp chips.
The big downside of Cole's was their service. My friend and I suspect our waitress suffers from short-term memory lost because she tried to take our order twice, then proceeded to forget my friend's beer order. To which he reminded her twice, and then to a different server. He gave up halfway through our meal and asked our waitress to cancel the order, but then she charged us anyways for the missing beer. It was a pity as it marred an otherwise a decent dinner experience.
It kind of hurts me to write this update. A couple of weeks ago, I swung in with a party of 9 for a birthday.
Service was extremely slow. We asked several times to order. Since it was Tuesday, saloon specials (aka, Happy Hour) would also extend to the dining room all night. We later found they didn't take the full discounts. For example, if the cocktail was discounted $2, they took off only a buck. Huh?
But the worst part was the server went around the whole table, took everyone's order then SKIPPED me. I was pretty annoyed as I was looking forward to ordering since we had been waiting for a while. I managed to put in my order for pastrami and bacon potato salad.
The pastrami was okay. I've come to associate pastrami two ways- fine and UNBELIEVABLE. So, Cole's was fine. I should have probably gotten the lamb which is my ultimate favorite here. The bacon potato salad was still good but not the amazing salad I had months ago.
But the bourbon pecan pie? Still AWESOME. Overall, my experience was borderline 3 stars until the server messed up again. This time she charged my card $10 extra dollars.
Um, first she forgot my order then she wanted to charge me more? Oh hell no. I am still going back to the bar at Cole's or to Varnish (hi, I saw Matthew Morrison, the hot teacher from Glee vanishing into the Varnish while I was there) but I wouldn't go there with a large party.
On the upside, sandwich prices seem to have gone down to a more reasonable $6.50. Sides are still outrageously overpriced though. And let's not forget the saloon specials which are all-night on Tuesdays.
Derek Z and I rolled into Cole's today for a little lunchy lunch. We had decided before we got there… Read more »
You seriously can't compare Cole's with Phillipe's. Remember the Sweet Valley High twins, Jessica and Elizabeth Wakefield? One of the twins was more serious-minded, down to earth, practical, and had less glamorous friends. The other was more polished with better clothes, make-up, and ran around with richer and hotter friends.
Cole's is Jessica Wakefield. Phillipe's is Elizabeth Wakefield. But this review is on Cole's.
The location is pretty snazzy. It keeps the "old-school" Los Angeles feel nicely, with well maintained dark wooden paneling and original (badly cracked) tiled floors, and amazing vintage chandelier/light fixtures. I suppose the employees attempt to carry the ambiance with the servers wearing fedoras and vests. The bar off to the side complements their daily happy hour specials, which is a mini- french dip sandwich and some choice of a side for $4. This is a steal, especially considering I could get mine to go.
The service seems a little weak. I sat and waited to place my order for about 10 minutes, all the servers determinedly avoiding eye contact with me until I practically had to tackle a guy down. That sucked, and while the staff are noticeably young (down to the meat-carving cook in the chef's whites and black jeep cap and tattoos, fresh from the Culinary Academy no doubt), age is no excuse for shitty service. My advice is to go straight to the small counter with the register, and let them know what you want (whether its take out or a table) just so they can't pretend you don't exist.
Food-wise, well, you get nicer condiments.I'd say that the sandwich here is marginally better, only because they are generous with their side of au jus, and you can control the moistness of your sandwich better. I also have a problem with a "french-dip" sandwich where you can't dip it yourself. They have some nicely fancy fries, your choice of sweet potato, garlic, or regular, and they aren't afraid of aioli or going a bit more upscale with their bacon potato salad. No pickled pig's feet here.
Overall, I'd come here after work for a couple nicer cocktails and a small snack. You know, come in your office casual and shoot the shit about design...but if I wanted to savor the authentic lunch diner feel, this is not the place for it.
In the Old Bank District of DTLA. Fabulous ambiance. Was here on a Monday night and it was buzzing. The 1908 interior is a great joint to hang out at the 40 ft maghony bar or get a bite to eat. Lots of architectural character with the orginal 20's lighting, red leather booths, stain glass, and penny tile floors. This place channels St. Elmos Fire & Cheers atmosphere. Great music selection. A continous cool stream of eccletic people pouring in and having a good time.
It took time getting seated since they were so busy. Once seated the service was top notch. Reed was attentive and prompt. I ordered the beef dip, garlic fries, spinach salad and apple pie.
The beef dip was great with the most delicious au ju sauce. French dip orginator or not it was really good. Tasty & hot Garlic fries. Spinach salad could be more refined. I liked the assortment of toppings with pine nuts but it could use just a little flavor of seasoning. A bit of bacon or prosciutto? The spinach was rather thick and lighter greens mixed with spinach could make it more refreshing & palatable. The apple pie was not that special priced at $6 a slice. A sign prompted me to order it 'The best apple pie in town!' Despite that I will definetly come back. Love the vibe of this place!
Before leaving Los Angeles, Sony and I decided to have lunch at a little spot in downtown LA's fashion district called Cole's that is famous for it's French Dip sandwich which originated in 1908. The restaurant is very charming, comfortable and cozy. It reminds me somewhat of John's Grill in San Francisco for it's ambiance and flavor. It is located within a historical landmark building and also houses a speakeasy in the back room. We wanted to get a glimpse of the room while there but they were so busy that afternoon that we just did not get a chance to see it.
The waitstaff was friendly and got our food to us very quickly. Because I was going to be flying back home to San Francisco shortly after our lunch I did not want to have a big meal. I don't like flying whether it be 45 minutes or 14 hours and I never like flying on a full stomach. So, we decided to split our order.
We had the Beef french dip sandwich, a side of bacon potato salad and a basket of garlic fries. The sandwich was very tasty on a crisp bun with the au jus on the side which I liked. So many other restaurants deliver the order with au jus already infused onto the sandwich which makes for a soggy mess. This was much more enjoyable. The potato salad had a distinct Mediterranean flavor. I'm not sure exactly what intensified this taste but whatever it was, it certainly made for a unique and scrumptious side dish. The garlic fries were delicious to say the least. Garlic roasted, crispy shoestring fries in a huge basket? You just can't get any better than that. It was truly a tasty afternoon treat and again, had I not been flying I would have had an order myself along with dessert. Next time I'll make sure to have lunch there again on the day I arrive rather than the day I leave.
We had a great time there and we'll definitely be going back again.
It is located on 6th and South Main street. It is very close to Pershing square and accessible public transportation. If you are in the Hollywood area, just take the Metro Red Line to Pershing square and walk a couple of blocks. It takes all of 15 minutes to get there. For more information visit Cole's Home of the French Dip.
Thanks Sone.
It was ok.
Coles or Phillipe's? I like em both! Everyone can continue on the debate of the origination of the french dip, I'm talking about dessert. What I loved at Cole's was the Guiness Ice Cream Float!! What you say? Beer and Ice Cream??? Yes, I said it, I drank it and I enjoyed it!! Try it!
The best perk was finding the Varnish hidden in the back!
This is a fun little bar/restaurant to chill out with a beer and a sandwich. Yes, they take credit for inventing the French Dip, and yes, they make a very good version. Exactly why the lamb is better than the beef I can't say (maybe it's the lamb's rosemary flavor). I'd advise going with the lamb, which is counter-intuitive, since most folks think beef when thinking French Dip. The bread is nothing to write home about, but this is junk food served with fries, so who cares? Add a reasonable beer selection and chill outdoor seating and you have three stars easily.
(Don't even bother with the Skinny Dip unless you just want a snack; it's mighty small). The potato salad is ungodly good. I could almost give them an extra star for that alone.
I work in downtown and I have to say that Cole's is like a trusty old friend.
Here are the 5 reasons why cole's gets 5 stars in no particular order:
1. The sandwiches are tasty and served on a crusty bun...with au jus on the side so that I can be in control of just how sloppy and soaky I want to get.
2. The spicy (though not that spicy) and delicious garlic fries are SO good. I am a fry lover and these basically made my day. They give you a huge basket with your meal so that you can absolutely overdo it. (and I did). Their sweet potato fries are also delicious, though slightly oily... I recommend going with a friend that will get one while you get the other...best of both worlds!
3. Good, friendly service. Yes, sometimes they get swamped but I have always felt that they were attentive and thoughtful. There's lots of seating but you may wait for a bit if you come at main lunch hours during the week. Just be patient.
4. The history of this place is just plain cool. They recently refurbished it and now it has a great atmosphere and vibe...and still the history. They have a full bar (and even a cute little tavern in the back of the place that serves as a GREAT place to hang out after work! They serve good beers and during the month of October, they have Oktoberfest where they have some of Germany's delicious beers and traditional food!!! This German girl is HAPPY!
5. The clientele is a mixed bag of wonderful. It's great for people watching, hot people staring (if that's your thing) or prancing. Everytime I am there I meet someone interesting and friendly. This is such a cool place to have in downtown!!!
Try it out...it's delicious, fun and historic. What more could you ask for?
I'm more a Phillippe's fan, but for the no waiting time and fast food delivery I must give this place 3 stars. It was just that OK, but don't get me wrong the Lamb dip with Swiss cheese was good. The bacon potato salad wasn't that good, but the spinach salad was decent. If you don't like real spicey mustard then I recommend you try Cole's mustard which is at each table chilled. I'm a huge fan of Phillippe's mustard but the mustard at Cole's was good just not hot enough for me.
No Lines and No wait make this place a nice place to grab a quick lunch; I work in Korean town and I was there and back within an hour no problem!
I didn't even know there was even a debate over french dip!
So anyways... my bf brought me here. I was looking forward to a really hearty good sandwich. I have to say, I felt the beef french dip was... a little underwhelming. I thought there would be more meat. Or even a bigger bun. Maybe a little crispy bun? Bigger portion would be nice. Im a small chick that eats a lot. Don't hate. On the other hand, the garlic spicy fries were really delicious. They were not spicy, but they were garlicky! We also got the Guinness float. It was awesome to say the least. Ice cream with beer, what could go wrong?
The atmosphere was alright. The pictures on the wall were cool... to see all the history and the textures of the place. Not bad at all. Service was great!
The debate continues, which is better: Philippe's or Cole's? To be honest, neither one is better because all of us have different likes and dislikes. Let's agree and say they're great in their own right.
With that said, let's begin exploring Cole's by first locating the actual restaurant. To be honest, its difficult to spot because its very inconspicuous and its located below ground level. Moreover, the sign is rather small and we're in downtown, so everything looks the same. Once you've located it, the difficult part is finding cheap, secure parking. You may have to pay $5 or up to $7 to find a parking spot. Unfortunately, Cole's has no parking lot, so you're on your own. Once you've parked, you walk to Cole's....this would be a non factor in a different part of town, but much to our chagrin Cole's is located on the edge of skid row; and therefore, you have to walk by and unfortunately listen to our homeless ppl (not a great experience if you're with a lady).
Once inside, if you get there at lunch time or happy hour, you may have to wait anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes, just avoid peak hours. Considering all those things, Cole's is a pretty great place. For starters the decor is incredible, you literally feel like this place was frozen in time since the 20's. Everything from the wooden floor, to the chandeliers, to the wooden bar gives you the feeling that in the backroom, Jack Dragna and his goons are bringing in beer. The colors, the smell, and the pictures on the wall remind you of pre-Prohibition LA, its awesome if you're a history junky (like myself) or just enjoy LA's culture.
The food at Cole's is definitely different from Philippe's, there's no way around it. The beef, lamb, turkey, pork dips are all tasty, flavorful, and tender. However, if you like your meat cooked well done (like me) and without any blood on your bread, tell the waiters. The bread itself is a little too plain for my tastes, and its also on the stiff side As plain as the bread may be, the au jus on the side gives you the option of how flavorful and soft you want your dip to be.
As for the sides, the potato salad and the garlic fries are great. I've yet to try any other sides, but these two are definitely 2 thumbs up, they compliment the French Dip just right.
Usually by then I'm full, and so I can't give you my 2 cents on the pies, but give them a try just the same if your not stuffed.
For those who like the bubbly, the coolest feature at Cole's is the wooden bar in front and the speakeasy in the back. The ambiance is just incredible at the bar, because the bartenders are dressed in white just like they were back in the 20's. The speakeasy out back is so hidden, you'd think the Prohibition agents were outside getting ready for a liquor raid. The only way you'd know there was a speakeasy is by the martini glass on the door that it leads to. I'm pretty convinced that the parties that go on at Cole's in the evenings are colorful to say the least.
All things considered, Cole's is a legendary place where you can eat a good French dip, and soak in alot of ambiance.
This French Dip paradise offers up great dips, and even better fries. Nice atmosphere and bar, but the even better bar at the back of this place (Varnish) is what truly sets this place a part.
Ok. My boyfriend and I ate at Philipes the night before and thought it was only fair to go Coles the following night.
Which French Dip is better? Man. It's like Sophie's Choice. But I will say this:
If you are lazy, like me and want your bread dipped for you...if you want some really yummy chili on a cold LA night... if you like the softer bread because you have bad teeth, or if you like the cafeteria-style old school diner environment -- Philipes it is. YAY!
However, if you are like my boyfriend and you like to be a man all up in your sandwich junk, and you like to have the control... if you're a dipper... and you like the more chill nightlife vibe of LA with cool booths and freakin' good Guinness beer floats, garlic fries and good service, then Coles is your place. YAY!
The best part about Coles which trumps Philipes is the secret jazzy/speakeasy type bar attached to it called Varnish which I accidentally found looking for the bathroom. What a happy mistake! It was like one second I was in the French Dip heaven and then found a time portal to "Coolville". YAY!
Coles Vs. Philipes? I love them both. Philipes is my quick f. dip fix. Coles is my sit. Stay. Good dog. Chill for a bit.
It just depends on the mood you're in.
Hmm. Which is better, Coles or Phillipe's? Cole's? Phillipe's? Phillipe's? Cole's?
Who cares? Say it with me and say it slowly: It doesn't matter. Both establishments are totally, completely, utterly different from one another.
Phillipe's is basically a dive, bordering on a dump, in a fairly divey, dumpy neighborhood. The sandwiches are cheap and delicious.
Cole's was formely a dive and is now a refurbished dive that is in no way a dive any longer. But it's literally located on the edge of Skid Row. If you are looking for parking and end up passing Cole's, congratulations! You're in Skid Row! Find the next available side street and get out.
And Cole's is pricey. It just is. Where you can probably order two sandwiches at Phillipe's and a couple of Cokes and get out for $10 to $15 bucks, there ain't no way, my friend, that you'll be getting out of Cole's for that much.
The sandwiches alone are around $9. You pay more for extra meat (which you don't need) or cheese or whatever. I will mention that the pork French dip is excellent and my lamb with blue cheese was also wonderful. I almost licked my plate.
The spicy garlic fries were not that spicy but were very, very salty. But they were also delicious and more than enough for two to share.
Finally, if you don't order a "classic" cocktail at Cole's, don't bother going because you would be missing out on one of the real reasons you should go. It would be like going to Disneyland without riding Pirates, even after Disney inserted that French guy Depp into the ride.
The classic cocktails are extremely well-made and are a real treat to see, smell and drink. They're not cheap but you may have never had cocktails like these before. And if you don't get one, ain't that a shame.
So Cole's is great all around and you should go. It's worth it just to get a cocktail and to check out the excellent rehab job of the joint. You can really feel the history in there. Just watch yourself in that neighborhood. The, um, interesting street people don't always stay on their side of the street.
Cole's has contended for years that it discovered the beef dip, something that Phillipe's hotly denies. Huell Howser has sided with Phillipe's and that to mee is gospel fact.
That doesn't mean Cole's isn't without its merit. I remember Cole's when it was more akin to a 40's working class joint laid out horizontally with restrooms downstairs. You could get a cheap pint and hear an inordinatley loud band in a tiny ass room.
Now it's been reborn in a style more akin to high Jazz age, with a "speak easy" to boot.
The food is filling, good sandwiches with plentiful aujus on the side. Did not like their bacon potato salad. mild flavor bordering bland although the concept is good: new potatoes, bacon, dill, mayo, vineagar?. It was just meh to my dad, sis, and me.
Their mac n' cheese is pretty stellar though. Everything Mac n cheese should be, cheesy melty, not soggy, crispy top, hearty. Kuddos.
I finally had an opportunity to have lunch today at Coles for french dip. It is definitely a more substantial sandwich than Phillipes. I still like Phillipes French Dip better in terms of flavor but I've got to eat 2 of those to match the heft of a Coles French Dip
The coleslaw was a little too creamy for me but the mac and cheese was superb. It was so cheesy and tasty.
The best part of the meal was dessert. The bourbon pecan pie was superb..probably the best I've ever had. Make sure you get it ala mode.
Ambience is very oaky and the vibe is cool. I think my next visit will be to the bar.
After watching movies at the Regal, it was past midnight. It was our chance to check out a cool late night eatery in DTLA. I've been wanting to try Cole's and per Yelp, it was still open. We drove over and we were lucky to find street parking right away, just needed to make sure we got back to the car before 2AM since we couldn't park there between 2A-5A. After getting many parking tickets, I am a little paranoid when it comes to parking. There's also a parking structure nearby that charges $7.
We get there and I immediately like the place. It is very throwback and felt like I stepped back in time. It was built in 1908, so I love places like this that reflects the history of LA. There aren't many places like it around, so I am so happy that they have preserved it. Compared to Philippe's, Cole's is really small, but it has it's own character. I had the lamb french dipped with blue cheese. I ordered cole slaw and garilc fries and I washed everything down with a glass of Spaten beer. Not bad. The mister had the turkey french dipped with goat cheese. They give you au jous to dip your sandwich. As far as the food is concerned, I like Philippe's better. I don't mind that Philippe's pre-dips the bread. Their sandwiches are bigger and tastier. And the biggest difference, the price are lower at Philippe's. For a side of cole slaw at Cole's costs $3+ which I thought was pretty pricey. So for the food, I give Cole's 3 stars.
Really, the ambience is what I love about this place, so I give it 4 stars. It is a nice late night eatery to chill with friends. And the best feature is the speakeasy in the back. There is a door that you go through and there is small bar area with booths that you can continue hanging out with friends after dinner. You don't have to be overly dressed up either. Awesome!
Don't know why people are so caught up in the battle between this place and the other French dip restaurant.. my guess is that both of them are probably awesome.
As for Cole's, I think it's wonderful. Great 1920s decor.. their menu claims they invented the French dip back in the day for a guy with sore gums. My favorite is the skinny dip (1/2 sandwich, fries or soup) combo. The lamb French dip is delicious; each piece of meat melts in your mouth and the bread is perfect. Au jus is mmmmmm. Spicy garlic fries are to die for. Once they were a bit sub par and my friend asked if we could have a new basket. They replaced it instantly and with a smile! The drinks here are fancy and expensive. More than the meals! I know they have some kind of speak-easy in the back, but I haven't been to it.
It kind of sucks to try to park around here.. taking the subway or the bus is probably a good idea if you can do it.
The French Dip is worth 6 bucks, at best. Pimm's Cup was weak/watered down. Whiskey sour was good. Fries were good. Quality and quantity has been slipping since they opened.
The place is just overpriced. Admittedly, I'll go here once in a while but I try to avoid it if I can. Beautiful ambiance is not worth it.
You suck, Cedd Moses and 213.
I looked forward to hitting up your bars for Repeal Day and 75 cent…
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My friend and I stopped here because we were in the area and it was suggested to us, sense we had no clue where to eat! Coles had such a wonderful vibe. The history shoots right at you right when you walk in, the walls are lined with photographs of downtown in the early 1900s and with celebrties who have eaten there. The menu is basic, and for a girl like me who can never decide what to eat... thats a great thing! There is one booth where a gangster who frequented Coles used to sit at and you can request his table... i didnt know this until i sat down to read the history on the front of the menu. Stop by Coles if your downtown its worth it... specially if you like a good french dip. PS- there is more than just roast beef options!
I want to love Coles. No, serious, I want to LOVE Coles, I want to love it real good. Mmmm, I want to love it with juicy au ju sauce on a kaiser roll. I want to love it smeared in hot and spicy horseradish sauce and whisper sweet somethings into it's ear... but unfortunately Coles is a sammichinizer and forsook my drunk ass that wanted nothing more than a 9:45PM Pastrami booty call.... Out of Pastrami? Out of bread? Out of water? Come on now, you can't really be out of water! It's going to take 1 hour to make my french dip with regular old beef? Well, since I hadn't had a nice hot piece of beef in awhile I figured it was worth the wait, and then it only took 10 minutes. I think the chef was full of it and popped some viagra into the cooking pot. WALA!
Anyhow, I've had a better sammich at Marie Callenders, but thankfully there was some chillaxin historic ambience and they make some tasty cocktails. So, I'll be back to tap that again.
Okay, I was maybe a bit harsh on Cole's in my primary review. I received a couple of PM's from Cole's regulars insisting I give them another try, so I decided to give them a 2nd shot. To be fair, I didn't eat a French Dip the last time, only garlic fries and some off brand vodka.
So here is the update:
Luke warm au jus, tough bread and soggy wilted fries. Really Cole's? C'mon. These are Restaurant 101 issues. Very simple to rectify.
The bar and restaurant are beautiful, and the bartenders and servers are very good, but mediocre food ain't gonna cut if for me. Window dressing and ambience alone does not a good meal make.
This would be excuseable at a cheap diner in Fresno. But you are in a fantastic location in a major US city, and you advertise that you're the Original French Dip.
I tried to give you a 2nd shot, but you left me underwhelmed. Whoever is managing the kitchen needs a wake up call. Quality control and food temperature doesn't seem to be a priority.
I didn't even use the Cole's Poker Chip for a free sandwich that I received last time when the kitchen suddenly closed on me. I paid because I didn't want to review a free meal.
How the Hell we ended up in DTLA I'm not sure, but I saw Cole's neon sign and remembered something… Read more »
This review is just for the bar. So my coworkers took me out since it was my birthday, and we were waiting for Varnish to open so we waited at the bar at Cole's.
Some things I learned that night.
Just order what's on the menu or a simple drink. The first drink I got was an old fashioned and it was great. I ordered another drink on the menu, and it was great too....
When the 1 minute $1 drink comes, cheap whiskey is good. 6:30pm One minute...$1 shot of Buffalo Trace whiskey.
NEVER EVER EVER ask the bartender to make you a surprise drink. I ended up getting this New York Flip drink, that had a raw egg mixed into it. I was like "ummm...I don't think so...but since it was my birthday I was like WTF." Bad idea! Next day my stomach was so upset, that couldn't hold anything down til 1pm, and I drink A LOT, A LOT. I'm a good drinker. No real signs of a hangover the next day, except my stomach could not hold anything down.
So....The rule for Cole's is, just order off the menu and keep it simple. If it has a raw egg mixed into it, ask for something else.
I had to knock the bar down for 2 stars, because of that New York Flip.
Tasty food and its across the street from my place, so it is very convenient. A couple weeks ago they were filming an episode of Mad Men here. I'm especially fond of the lamb dip with blue cheese.
Be sure to check out the speakeasy Varnish located in the back of the restaurant through an unmarked (except for a tiny, painted, martini glass) door.
OK I didn't have any of the food...yet. If you eat with me then you know I'm a fan of dead bovine on a plate and this place smelled heavenly. You can also watch the guy put together the sandwich in the main dinning room. I will eat there soon.
What we did do was drink. Great bar, screw fake speakeasies this is an authentic bar from the 20s/30s. The bartenders know what they're doing. I ordered an old fashioned and the old fashioned here put hair on my chest. Yes they actually have Rye behind the bar. They cleave piece of ice off of an ice block so that the it doesn't melt and water down your drink like typical ice chips or cubes do....nice.
They also serve other classics like the Manhattan and various old school champagne cocktails including "Death in the Afternoon."
$10 cocktails so it's at the midpoint between good deal and Standard Hotel Rooftop Ripoff.
Can't wait to have the sandwich but I can definitely vouch for the drinks.
I have been introduced Coles by friends.
The menu is simple and straight forward. We ordered the following:
Pork sanwich w/ auju, grilled turkey and cheese sandwich w/ auju, tomato soup, mac and cheese, potato salad w/ bacon bits, and for shits and giggles we ordered some fries as if we didn't have enough carbs to last us a life time!
Like their menu, Coles food is straight forward. No foams, speheres or gelees (did I spell that right?!). Just flavorful and satisfying comfort food.
Average cost of food ranges from $10 and above. Alcoholic beverages are available, but I don't think people go there to drink.
I am not certain if they serve food earlier - like lunch or early dinner (aka 5pm). But if you decide to go on a whim after 9pm - make sure you get there and place your orders before the kitchen closes which is at 1:30am. Warning: be prepared to wait to be seated because a lot of people will probably do the same thing you will be doing around that same time and area in down town. (Note that this time is based on a Friday or Saturday evening of having fun at its neighboring bar - Association)
Street parking is the only way to go or parking lots if you are willing to shell out aobut $5 or more.
No dress code. Although there is a bounger outside that'll check for your ID. I guess its for their bar and also for Varnish which is located at the back of Coles. Its that black door towards the kitchen area for those of you whose always wondered where that door leads to. ;)
Over all - a very satisfying experience at Coles. Next time, I will have to try their deserts. Their chocolate cake and rootbeer float sounds yummy!
Now the million dollar question - "Is it better than Phillipe's?" To be determined.
I haven't had food here yet so I this review has nothing to do with the edibles. I went for drinks one night and we went straight into the back room, which was super cute. It had that retro feel that reminded me of the Edison.
I had a drink called (if I remember correctly) The Business and it was delish! So delicious that I had to get a second. ;)
The service was good. The waitress was attentive without being overbearing. The room was a little bit on the dark side, but once your eyes adjust and you get a few drinks in you, who cares? Just be careful that after the however many yummy drinks you have, you don't turn right when you exit the restaurant. :P
Description of a good friend:
Me: "I've had a really crappy day, Dee. Do you want to meet for Happy Hour?"
Dee: "Sure...! Let's meet at Varnish!"
**LOVE this girl...**
Varnish doesn't open till 8pm. So, we ended up at Cole's. Damn glad we did. They now carry Martin Miller Gin. To my surprise, these boys make one helluva drink. My Gin Sour was perfect. Beaten egg white and all. Looks creamy sweet but it's actually light, strong and refreshing. Just how I like it.
Dee and I had a great time laughing it up with the guys behind the bar.
I completely forgot about my rotten day.
Thanks girl..
-------------------------------------------------- ------
Damn fine bartenders.... =)
"Hi Anthony... *wink wink...* Thank you for my lovely gin sours. yummy... and... for also being easy on the eyes.."
I really should deduct a star because the garlic fries were wayyy too salty. I almost blew up like a blow fish. BUT.... The sweetie barkeeps made up for the salty fries. Hmm... Maybe I should have ate one of them instead?=)
Oh forgot to mention... One of the boys had the cutest crush on Ms. Dee. Made the night even more pleasurable. =)
Can a girl ask for a better Friday???
Happy Hour at Pete's. eh...whatevs... I'm with my gang of…
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Coles has good sandwiches but terrible beer and fries.
Why would you limit yourself to four taps and then, to add insult to injury, feature 4 marginal beers. Spaten is good if you have another pilsner backup. Guinness is standard but God forbid someone wants to have a real stout. Anchor Steam? Did you get a discount for selecting beers no other bars want?
Also, your deep fryer needs to be utilized correctly. Fries were soggy and obviously frozen. I was disappointed by a great concept, a great legacy brand and tradition with such lack of attention to detail. This restaurant could be so much more.
I thought the sandwiches were good and actually found parking on the street nearby. This was a Saturday, I should point out. The five stars, however, go for the fact that they've done an amazing job keeping the authenticiy of place.
As for the Philippe's / Cole's rivalry, I'm going to give it a tie. My wife, however, would probably give the blue ribbon to Philippe's because "she doesn't like so much bread" to use her line. As for me, its nice not having to wait in a giagantic line for my food, so I'm partial to this place.
Cole's had great old timey cocktails, and a really good sandwich. The meat approaches slow-smoked K.C. (Memphis, Texas or Carolina) barbecue or pastrami sandwich good. Don't get me wrong, it's not a barbecue place. It's a French Dip place. Meaty sandwiches with Au Jus. I'm just saying, if you LIKE barbecue or pastrami, you'll like these sandwiches. I could see all three of them attending the same meat-family reunion.
The place has been around for 100 years, so you've got that dark, rich, woody walls and tile floors. A robust kind of space like you'd see back in the FDR days (I was born in 1977, but I've seen "Annie").
If you've ever gone to a bar excited to order some new (yet ancient) drink like...I don't know, a sidecar or Manhattan - one of those tough old drinks you've read about in a bartender's handbook at Urban Outfitters. Those drinks from the days of prohibition, when a cocktail wasn't just alcohol added to a glass of sugary mixer, but with alcohol at it's core - a whiskey flavored with a dash of bitters, mint leaf, a sugar cube and an orange peel.
Anyway, yes. Those drinks. Something beyond the usual MGD or Jack and Coke. A lot of times you go to a bar, order a "French Connection" (not because you're a pretentious snob, but because it sounds like a fun one to try - and it is as delicious as candy and as strong as cleaning supplies), and the bartender, who was apparently hired just to be pretty, will say "A what?". Not at Cole's! They've been around and they know how to make a good cocktail. It's not cheap, but it's downtown, it's cool and the sandwiches are truly, truly delicious.
It's worth the subway ride from North Hollywood even.
And, if you have weird issues like I do - you'll appreciate the spacious and accommodating bathrooms.
I want to talk about a Cole's that once was, before The Varnish took up a great portion of this old haunt.
Ali Mazarei used to make me the best Manhattan I ever had. Now and then he would sneak to the back and grab a few french dip sandwiches wrapped in foil, still warm and delicious. We ate them up almost forgetting all the drinks at our table. Sawdust on the floor, cigarettes just outside the door. It was gritty, it was dark, and it was fun. Neighbors came down from their lofts now and then to check out the local bands, most of them my friends' bands. Long gone are the days of Silent Gray, Pleasant Something, Profugos, and Nu Republic playing in the back room and bringing in the indie rockers and brit poppers.
Sometimes, when the girls and I ran off to the ladies' room to talk about boys, we'd be a little scared taking those few steps down into the subterranean feel of the building though we were really not that far from the surface. We shook off the creepy feeling by handling our business and checking our lipstick.
I haven't been there since The Association opened, but I will try to check that out and come back to share about how it has changed.
So the low-down? Cole's beats Philippe's. Here's why...
Cole's gives their sandwiches the time and lovin' that all fast-food ultimately deserves. When we got our food, it was served on a clean, white plate with lil black toothpicks poked thru each sandwich half. The au jus sauce was in a small soup cup on-top of a black napkin. Take all of this and throw in a pint of Hef, and dayyyyyyum.
- Pastrami is thinly cut, not too salty.
- Minus point for the non-french bread, tho. It was torta bread from a local panaderia in dtla, no doubt.
- Minus points for a spicy dill pickle, too! Dills are supposed to be served sweet, to counteract a deli sammich.
- Plus points for their garlic fries!
- Plus mo' points for their mac n cheese! It's semi-baked and cheddary!
So if you wanna french-dip dirty style and served in less than 5 mins during your power-lunch break, go to Philippe's. If you wanna french-dip done right so that you can end your day with a relaxing dinner n beer, go to Cole's.
That's all, suckas.
Why did I not know about this place? I have been near it for a long time, and even went to the bar next door without ever eating here. I was amazed to sit down and have the pastrami dip and spicy garlic fried the other night whilst bar hopping in downtown.
There isn't much one can say that hasn't been said about Cole's on Yelp, but if you haven't been you must go. It is one of the best meals I have had in Los Angeles, and don't think I can stay away for long. They have a diverse array of way to get the dip, with the meat choices, and the cheese choices, and I am certain any of them will fit your fancy.
If I could only live in their kitchen I would be in heaven.
I definitely want to go back and try more!
We went here after the Association and they ran out of fries =(
But their pastrami french dip with swiss cheese was really really good!
Great place to hang out. It's part of the Downtown Trifecta which includes the Association and the Varnish (in the back of Coles).
Next time I go I hope they have fries and I will also be checking out the Varnish. There was an unexpected celebrity sighting when we were there.
This place is a must if you are in the area.
overpriced, overwrought, unsatisfying.
i love a french dip, and philippe's (where these were invented, *ahem*, cole's you lie on your menu) serves amazing french dip sandwiches. cole's serves, well, something vaguely similar: slices of beef without enough fat content on a dry, hard roll with a side of au jus. there's no majesty to it, nothing that would make it cravable. it's just a sandwich.
they serve kettle chips, of which i'm not particularly a fan, and i probably paid an absurd amount for them. their mac & cheese was a too saucy and didn't wow me at all.
thankfully i was in excellent company otherwise i'd have been mighty disappointed with my lunch here.
I can't help but think of Philippe's in the same thought as Cole's. Maybe I shouldn't, but the whole who-made-the-french-dip-first thing kinda complicates that.
Anyway, I finally checked this place out recently after a Dodger game. Of course, I had to order a french dip sandwich. I'll say this now.... Philippe's sandwiches are way better than Cole's. The Cole sandwich had some nice meat to it, but the bread was meh and just kinda wasn't what I was expecting as far as a french dip sandwich (read: Philippe's).
But that's my fault for going in hell-bent on comparing the two.
But I'll gladly return here. The vibe is pretty cool, it's a great late-night choice. It's got a bar, it's a darker/city type ambiance, and the crowd seems pretty hip. I'll definitely try a new dish next time. There's a "secret" bar in the back, one that I'll remember frowns upon summer casual clothing.
Our waitress was fast and friendly, and the place seems well kept. See you next time, Cole's.
Food: Very Good
Drinks: Very Good
Service: Average
Ambiance: Lively
Portions: Just right
Facility Type: Old-School Speakeasy Saloon/ Diner
Cuisine: French-Dips, American Breakfast
Price: Average
Parking: Street parking if you can score one, or pay to park in nearby lots.
Best For: French-Dip cravings, Late night dinners depending on day of week, Groups, Casual Dates, Happy Hour
What I have tried so far:
Sandwiches-
Beef French Dip ($8.24)- Very Good
Pastrami French Dip ($8.24)- Excellent. I always get this. Has chunks of fat, but I just pick them off.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich ($5.04)- Very Good. Crunchy but greasy.
Sides-
Tomato Soup ($4.12)- Excellent, especially with grilled cheese sandwich
Mac and Cheese ($4.12)- Average, not creamy.
French Fries ($4.12)- Average
Garlic French Fries ($4.12)- Excellent. Spicy. May be salty for some people.
Classic "Cole's" Slaw ($3.20)- Average
Drinks-
Pastis & Water ($10)- Excellent for Absinthe lovers. It's basically Absinthe & Water. Not on menu anymore, but you can still ask for it. I always get this.
Death in The Afternoon ($10)- Very Good. It's Champagne with Absinthe.
I've had other tasty cocktails there specially made by the bartenders. The bartenders know what they are doing unlike a lot of other bars in LA/Hollywood. Also, there is a really cool tiny bar in the back room called Varnish. They serve vintage style spirits, cordials and liqueurs.
Neighborhood: Downtown
Category: Buffets
Neighborhood: Downtown
Category: Lounges
Neighborhood: Downtown
Category: American (New)
Neighborhood: Chinatown
Category: Sandwiches
Neighborhood: Downtown
Category: Diners
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