Unearth The Voyage
Los Angeles isn’t just about new food trends and celebrity chefs – it’s also home to some of the most enduring restaurants in America, each with decades (or even a century) of stories behind them. From old Hollywood hangouts to family-run icons that survived the city’s constant reinvention, here are 10 historic LA eateries worth a meal – before they disappear into history.
1. Philippe the Original
Philippe the Original is steeped in history, claiming the invention of the famous French Dip. Opened in 1908, this iconic eatery still delights patrons with its simple yet flavorful sandwiches. Imagine the subtle crunch of the crusty bread, perfectly balanced with tender beef dipped in savory jus.
The ambiance is a throwback to a bygone era, with sawdust-covered floors and communal seating. Philippe’s is a time capsule of Los Angeles’ culinary past, where tradition is served on every plate.
A visit here is like walking through a living museum, where each bite tells a story. Don’t miss their spicy mustard, adding a kick to your meal and leaving a lasting impression.
2. Musso & Frank Grill
Musso & Frank Grill stands as a bastion of Hollywood’s golden age. Established in 1919, this legendary grill offers a glimpse into the glamour of old Tinseltown. Picture dining in red leather booths while a well-dressed waiter serves you a classic martini.
The menu reflects a storied past, featuring timeless dishes like flannel cakes and prime rib. It’s a place where tales of Hollywood legends unfold with every visit.
Whether it’s the aura of Charlie Chaplin or Marilyn Monroe’s favorite corner, Musso & Frank embodies a rich legacy. Indulge in the nostalgia and savor a piece of cinematic history amid its storied walls.
3. The Original Pantry Café
The Original Pantry Café, a pillar of downtown Los Angeles since 1924, offers comfort food around the clock. Imagine the hustle and bustle as loyal patrons line up for hearty breakfast plates at all hours.
In a city that never sleeps, neither does The Pantry, serving sourdough toast and hash browns to everyone from longshoremen to politicians. Its unpretentious charm and steadfast service are as reliable as the sunrise.
Step inside to find a place where time stands still, where the walls echo with decades of laughter and conversation. The Pantry remains a beloved institution, serving up tradition with a side of nostalgia.
4. Canter’s Deli
Canter’s Deli on Fairfax is as much a part of LA’s cultural landscape as the Hollywood sign. Established in 1931, this 24-hour Jewish deli has been a staple for generations of late-night diners.
Imagine biting into a pastrami Reuben, while surrounded by the lively hum of conversation and the smell of fresh bagels. The Kibitz Room offers a quirky backdrop, where you might spot a comedian or musician enjoying a midnight snack.
The matzo ball soup is legendary, warming both body and soul. Canter’s is more than a deli; it’s a community, a place where stories are shared over sandwiches and laughter echoes into the night.
5. The Tam O’Shanter
The Tam O’Shanter is a whimsical escape into a Scottish fairy tale. Founded in 1922 by the creators of Lawry’s, this restaurant charmed its way into Walt Disney’s heart, among others.
Envision sitting at a rustic table, surrounded by carved wooden interiors and enjoying a sumptuous prime rib with Yorkshire pudding. The Tam feels like a cozy storybook cottage, where every corner holds a tale.
With its unique blend of charm and tradition, it’s easy to see why it inspired Disney’s early animations. Here, the past is present, and history is savored with every bite. Don’t miss the chance to explore its enchanting legacy.
6. El Cholo
El Cholo, a vibrant cornerstone of LA’s culinary scene since 1923, boasts the birth of LA-style Mexican cuisine. Imagine the warm aroma of green corn tamales wafting through a lively, colorful dining room.
This family-owned gem popularized dishes like nachos, serving them with a side of history. From margaritas to enchiladas, each dish tells a story of tradition and community.
The walls are adorned with photographs of diners spanning generations, a testament to its enduring appeal. El Cholo remains a cherished fixture where flavors and family unite, offering a taste of history in every delectable bite.
7. Cole’s
Cole’s, renowned for its legendary French Dip, has been a downtown LA staple since 1908. Picture the rustic charm of its cozy interiors, where the Red Car Bar serves expertly mixed old-fashioned cocktails.
As you bite into a lamb dip sandwich, the rivalry with Philippe’s is a spicy tale that adds flavor to your experience. Each visit to Cole’s is a journey back in time, where the echoes of jazz age revelry still linger.
With its nostalgic vibe and hearty fare, Cole’s offers more than just a meal; it’s a portal to the past, where history is savored with every dip and sip.
8. Pacific Dining Car
Pacific Dining Car, though currently closed, whispers of a time when fine dining met the allure of the rails. Established in 1921, it once served as a nighttime retreat for bankers and celebrities.
Envision enjoying a baseball steak amid an elegant train-themed setting, where the opulence of a bygone era is palpable. This storied establishment remains in the hearts of many, with pop-ups and catering keeping its spirit alive.
Hope lingers for its full return, promising a revival of the sumptuous dining experience it once provided. Until then, it lives on in memory as a symbol of luxury and tradition.
9. The Smoke House
The Smoke House in Burbank is a place where Hollywood dines away from the spotlight. Since 1946, this dimly lit steakhouse has welcomed industry legends, offering a retreat from the studio glare.
Imagine sinking into a red vinyl booth while savoring their famous garlic cheese bread, a taste that lingers long after the last bite. The atmosphere is a blend of cozy and classic, where deals are made over steaks and laughter.
The walls, adorned with Hollywood memorabilia, silently recount tales of the stars who found solace here. The Smoke House remains a cherished hideaway, a place where history and flavor intertwine.
10. Formosa Café
Formosa Café is a beacon of Hollywood’s golden era, nestled next to a train car in West Hollywood. Since 1939, it’s been a haven for stars seeking refuge from prying eyes.
Picture the glow of neon lights as you explore its revamped menu, blending classic cocktails with modern Asian-American cuisine. The walls are alive with memorabilia, whispering secrets of Elvis, Bogart, and Monroe.
In this lively setting, the past meets the present, offering a unique dining experience where history is not just remembered but relished. Formosa Café continues to captivate with its rich tapestry of stories and flavors.
