Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Binder.
Hi Andrew, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Philippe the Original opened in 1908 and has been credited with the invention of the French Dip Sandwich. The story goes that a customer was in a hurry and Philippe Mathieu accidentally dropped a french roll into a pan of meat drippings from that day. The customer took the sandwich as is, loved it, and the rest is history. Since then, Philippe’s has served thousands of French Dips daily and become a popular pre-game Dodger hangout due to its proximity to Dodger Stadium.
The restaurant is still family owned and operated since Philippe sold it in 1927. Currently, the restaurant is operated by Andrew Binder, Julia Tauscher, and Mark Massengill – All fourth generation family members.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The longevity of Philippe’s has presented many struggles. World Wars, the Great Depression and the most recent pandemic to name a few. For restaurants as a whole, the industry is notorious for being difficult to enter and even more difficult to maintain. The most difficult struggle Philippe’s continues to face is the availability and exorbitantly high costs post-pandemic. We have always offered Angelenos an affordable breakfast or lunch without sacrificing quality – our coffee is still .46 a cup!
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Philippe the Original?
Philippe the Original is the longest continually operating restaurant in Los Angeles. As mentioned, we are known for the invention of the French Dip. The most popular sandwich is the roast beef – But we offer leg of lamb, pork, pastrami, and turkey. Another item we are known for is our Famous Hot Mustard and pickled eggs.
We are very proud of our brand intimacy we have with our customers. Over the years, we have become a very family-orientated place to gather with our communal tables and “old school” style of service. Our customers appreciate the restaurant staying “as they remember it,” which can also bring some struggles as well. Any change we make to our menu boards, decor or service style is noticed immediately by our regulars.
Walking the fine line between keeping everything original vs making necessary changes is of the utmost importance. Some big changes have been accepting credit cards, online ordering, and easier-to-read menu boards – They used to be hand-painted! All in all, Philippe’s welcomes everyone to enjoy a reasonably priced and high-quality meal with a touch of nostalgia.
What matters most to you?
People. The industry relies on and revolves around people from staff to customers.
Pricing:
- French Dips 10.95-11.95
- Potato Salad 1.95
- Macaroni Salad 1.95
- Coffee .46 (.50 with tax!)
- Hot Mustard 5.50 a jar
Contact Info:
- Website: www.philippes.com
- Instagram: @philippetheOG
- Twitter: @philippetheOG
