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manzana.pina
Jun 21, 2026No comment
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Bars & Nightlife
Cole's
2.3 · 3 reviews · $$
About
Cole’s, Originator of the French Dip Sandwich, opened in 1908 in the Pacific Electric building, once the nucleus of the Pacific Electric railway network. In 2007, 213 Hospitality purchased the establishment and Cole’s reopened in 2008 with great acclaim, receiving rave reviews in numerous publications such as LA Weekly by one of LA’s top critics Jonathan Gold and the ‘25 Best Bars in America’ by GQ Magazine. Evoking the spirit of an early 20th century saloon, the welcoming 40-foot Red Car Bar boasts original glass lighting, penny tile floors, and historic photos, preserved in the restoration of the cherished landmark. The Red Car Bar’s ample selection of premium spirits, drafts, and historic cocktails compliment the saloon’s classic French Dip sandwiches. Cole’s also opened a second location at the Los Angeles International Airport in late 2013.Cole’s, Originator of the French Dip Sandwich, opened in 1908 in the Pacific Electric building, once the nucleus of the Pacific Electric railway network. In 2007, 213 Hospitality purchased the establishment and Cole’s reopened in 2008 with great acclaim, receiving rave reviews in numerous publications such as LA Weekly by one of LA’s top critics Jonathan Gold and the ‘25 Best Bars in America’ by GQ Magazine. Evoking the spirit of an early 20th century saloon, the welcoming 40-foot Red Car Bar boasts original glass lighting, penny tile floors, and historic photos, preserved in the restoration of the cherished landmark. The Red Car Bar’s ample selection of premium spirits, drafts, and historic cocktails compliment the saloon’s classic French Dip sandwiches. Cole’s also opened a second location at the Los Angeles International Airport in late 2013.
Reviews (3)
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Amy F.
Jun 20, 2026I prefer the "sit-down and be waited-on" atmosphere here to the bustling counter service at their downtown rivals, Phillippe's. Prefer their options for sides, too. There's a "secret speakeasy" entrance to the bar, The Varnish, inside.
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robo21
Jun 20, 2026My wife and I went in to Cole's shortly after their reopening with no expectations. The sandwich was way below average, very little meat and it tasted boiled rather than roasted. The potato salad was awful with chunks of bacon fat (no extra charge) included. Also parking in this area is a major headache.