Los Angeles has said goodbye to many longtime restaurants, but one historic eatery may be getting a second chance. Cole’s French Dip, which served its last meal in March 2026 after 118 years in business, is reportedly preparing to reopen as soon as November.
Founded in 1908, the Downtown L.A. restaurant is famous for its French dip sandwiches and claims to have invented the iconic dish. Now, new owners are planning to bring it back with an updated menu and a refreshed dining room.
A new look for this historic L.A. restaurant
Hospitality entrepreneur Jeremy Fall and former Mozza Restaurant Group executive Sean Maloney are behind the planned revival. While the French dip will remain the star of the menu, diners can expect some new additions.
The updated menu is expected to include fresh ravioli, prime rib frites, and salmon topped with trout roe. The signature sandwich will also get an upgrade, featuring dry-brined prime rib, au jus simmered for 24 hours, and a custom-made roll from L.A. bakery Clark Street Bread.
There could even be an au jus-infused martini, adding a creative twist to the restaurant’s traditional offerings.
The dining room is also getting a makeover with vintage-style ceiling tiles and a piano. Pool tables have been removed to make room for more diners, but the owners plan to preserve some of the restaurant’s old-school charm.
That includes a famous bathroom plaque referencing writer Charles Bukowski, which is reportedly staying put.
Why did Cole’s French Dip close?
Cole’s closed on March 28, 2026, after its previous owner, Pouring With Heart, cited rising labor and insurance costs, the lingering effects of the pandemic, and the Hollywood strikes as contributing factors.
The announcement brought crowds to the historic restaurant with customers lining up to enjoy one last French dip before its doors closed.
Now the new owners are hoping that a combination of nostalgia and a more upscale dining experience will give the restaurant a fresh start.
Although the exact reopening date has not been confirmed, Cole’s could return as soon as November. For longtime fans, that means the end of this L.A. institution may have been only temporary.
