DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES (KABC) — Cole’s French Dip, a beloved landmark in downtown Los Angeles, closed its doors for good on Sunday.
After eight months of deadline extensions, the restaurant marked the occasion with a weekend celebration.
Cole’s French Dip has been in downtown Los Angeles for 118 years. For months, the owners have been searching for a buyer.
The rocky economy has been brutal for restaurants across the city, and sadly, Cole’s is closing its doors.
Customers lined up all day on Sunday to enjoy one last meal at the historic downtown L.A. restaurant and bar, famous for its French dip sandwich.
Coles’s has many faithful customers who have been visiting the restaurant for decades. They say they love the food, the friendly atmosphere and the history of the restaurant.
The owners said they made the difficult decision to close due to financial losses caused by the pandemic, entertainment industry strikes and the economy.
Cole’s was originally set to close last August, but decided to stay in business while the company that owns the restaurant tried to find a buyer.
The owners say they were looking for a buyer who was interested in continuing the legacy of one of the oldest restaurants in L.A.
Customers say Cole’s will be missed.
“We used to come here for brunch all the time, a group of girlfriends, we used to hang out for hours and stay for the mimosas. It was amazing, so we’re going to miss this place,” said Nannette Chavez.
“Easily 40 years, my dad used to take us down here back when I was in my early 20s,” said customer Shawn O’Casey. “The quality, the sandwiches are just, you can’t beat it.”
“My grandparents were so good at making everybody feel like family. Everyone felt like family when they came here. It didn’t matter if they were coming over for dinner or into the restaurant, they just made everyone feel at home, and it showed,” said Alex Mandekic, who is related to the former owners.
She said her family owned the restaurant from 1957 to 1990. The restaurant has had a number of owners throughout its 118-year history.
Despite Sunday being the last day, the atmosphere was very upbeat in the restaurant.
Some customers told Eyewitness News they still have hope that someone will buy the restaurant and bring it back. Until then, the owners say they simply can’t go on, and Cole’s will serve its final meal on Sunday night.
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