Foodie Friday - The Original

Believe it or not, there's a bit of a fight in Los Angeles about just who originated the french dip sandwich. Two restaurants share this claim to fame, Philippe the Original and Cole's Originator's of the French Dip. Both places were opened in 1908 and neither one of them is budging an inch about who made the popular sandwich first. They both also have great neon signs and darn good food. 

"Philippe's" 

Philippe's was the first of the originals that I tried. I loved the old brick building, the sawdust floor and the vintage style counter service. Their famous french dip is different from the mainstream version you'll find in that the bread is dipped in au jus instead of the au jus being poured over the meat once it's in the sandwich. Believe me when I say you won't need extra au jus on the side. Cole's was a completely different take on the sandwich, but I'll save that for another Foodie Friday post. I do have to say that of the two places, I prefer Philippe's french dip. 

"The Original" in my Retro Roadside Photo Etsy Shop 

Have you eaten at either Philippe's or Cole's? Do you have a preference? And what's for lunch today?

Happy Friday!

- Stefanie

Foodie Friday - King Me Johnnie!

Johnnie's Pastrami for sale on my Retro Roadside Photography shop

A few days ago I featured the Astro Motel and Deano's, two vintage motels on Sepulveda Boulevard in Culver City. I thought I'd stick with Sepulveda for the rest of the week and feature Johnnie's Pastrami. 

Johnnie's opened in 1952 and was packed with patrons when I snapped it's photo last year. The food looked mighty tasty and smelled delicious. Why have I always just eaten? Johnnie's vintage neon sign looks as great as the food smelled. I still love the crown dotting the I. It's just classy.

Happy Friday!

- Stefanie