In a surprising turn of events for one of Los Angeles’s most venerable culinary institutions, Cole’s French Dip has announced a significant extension to its operations, pushing back its previously scheduled closure due to an unprecedented outpouring of customer enthusiasm and community support.
The historic dining establishment, renowned for its claim as the inventor of the French dip sandwich, initially informed the public that August 2nd would mark its final day of service. This announcement, however, triggered an immediate and overwhelming response from patrons eager to experience the restaurant’s iconic offerings one last time.
Owner Cedd Moses, overseeing the Pouring With Heart company that operates the downtown Los Angeles eatery, observed a remarkable resurgence in customer traffic following the closure news. He noted that the lines snaking around the corner of 6th and Main Streets echoed the bustling “old days” before the pandemic significantly altered the landscape of the restaurant business.
The surge in demand, coupled with advocacy from various local organizations including the Central City Association, prompted Moses to re-evaluate the immediate future of Cole’s French Dip. A crucial deal was subsequently struck with the space’s landlord, securing a 45-day business extension for the beloved eatery, allowing it to continue serving its loyal clientele.
Diners from across Southern California have flocked to Cole’s, expressing their gratitude for the additional time. Moses confirmed a dramatic jump in sales since the initial closure announcement, with a notable shift in consumption patterns; the restaurant is now selling as many signature French dips as it sells drinks, a significant change for an establishment that recently saw more beverage sales. To accommodate the crowds, weekend opening hours have also been adjusted to noon.
Despite the recent boom, Moses, who also serves on the board of the Independent Hospitality Coalition, remains cautious about the long-term viability of this sudden surge. He acknowledged that the current wave of business is driven by a desire to say goodbye, making it an unsustainable model for the Los Angeles restaurants scene in the long run.
Moses candidly discussed the broader challenges facing the restaurant business in Los Angeles, describing it as a “broken model.” He cited increasing operational costs, particularly labor expenses, and a lingering lack of sustained demand post-pandemic as major inhibitors to growth. Ironically, the expected surge in business only materialized after the closure was announced.
In the interim, while patrons enjoy the extended farewell, Moses is actively seeking a new buyer for Cole’s French Dip. His primary objective is to find an owner who will respect and preserve the significant historic value of the establishment, ensuring the legacy of the city’s oldest restaurant endures beyond this temporary reprieve.
