Here is a list of the top frequently asked questions and answers at Philippe the Original.
What are your holiday hours?
We are closed on Thanksgiving & Christmas Day. We also close early at 8 PM on Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve. Otherwise we are open normal hours, 6 AM – 10 PM.
How is the name Philippe pronounced?
The French pronunciation is “Fileep’s”.
Who has worked at Philippe’s the longest?
Roasrio Villasenor, also known as “Chayo” worked for Philippe’s for 46 years before retiring
Does Philippe's accept reservations?
We currently do not accept reservations for any size parties. Our seating is available on a first come, first serve basis.
What kind of pies do you have?
A large variety of pies are available – apple pie, pineapple, cherry, berry, blueberry, peach, pecan, chocolate cream, pumpkin, lemon meringue, banana cream, coconut meringue and custard.
Are you owned by the Mayor? (Former Mayor Riordan)
No, Philippe’s has been owned by the same family since 1927 – the Martin/Binder/Downey family.
Did you used to be open 24 hours a day?
Yes, from 1927-1941.
Is this the original location?
No, Philippe Mathieu opened his first restaurant in 1908 at 300 N. Alameda Ave. Roasted meats were served, but no sandwiches. In 1918, it moved to 246 Aliso Street where the first French dipped sandwich was served.
How long has Philippe’s been at this location?
We moved to 1001 N. Alameda St. in 1951, due to the 101 Freeway’s construction and have been here ever since.
What forms of payment does Philippe’s accept?
Philippe’s accepts all major credit cards and cash.
What was the building before?
When the building was purchased it was a machine shop on the bottom floor and an Inn on the second floor.
Why is there sawdust on the floor?
It is a tradition to Philippe’s.
Is breakfast served all day?
Breakfast is available at Philippe’s every day until 10:30 am
Are sandwiches served all day?
You can get a beef or ham sandwich when Philippe’s opens, and the pork, lamb and turkey sandwich are available after 9:00 a.m. and served all day until we run out.
Is the owner French?
The original owner, Philippe Mathieu, from 1908 to 1927, was a French immigrant. The current owners are not of French ancestry.
Is Philippe still alive?
No, Philippe passed away in 1960.
Did Philippe look like the “French Man” logo?
No, it’s just a logo.
Do you bake the pies at Philippe's?
No, our pies are baked fresh at Martino’s Bakery and are delivered daily.
Why don’t you serve ketchup with lunch?
We are serving “French Dipped” sandwiches, not hamburgers.
What are your hours?
Our hours are 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. daily. We are only closed on Thanksgiving day and Christmas day
When are you the most crowded?
Between the hours of 11:30 am and 1:30 pm Monday through Friday. And most of the day on weekends and before Dodger home games.
Why don’t you sell your mustard in stores?
Our mustard contains no preservatives, therefore having a short shelf-life. We like the ability to control our inventory and ensure that fresh mustard is being sold.
Is there horseradish in your mustard?
it just tastes like it. “The plant that produces mustard seeds, the basis of all mustard, belongs to the Cruciferae family, as does horseradish, turnips, radishes, cabbage, and watercress, all noted in varying degrees for their sharp flavor.” (Cook’s Illustrated, “Is French Dijon Mustard Best?”, by Erika Bruce and Adam Ried).
Does the cage around the candy counter register really stop thieves?
Yes.
Where is the airplane from located at the candy counter?
In 1940, David Downey, Frank Martin’s son-in-law, gave Frank the model when he worked for the Douglas Corporation in Long Beach.
Where is the train museum and how big is it?
The train display is located in the room prior to the restrooms. It features a rotating display of trains and descriptions of their history. It is maintained by The Los Angeles Railroad Heritage Foundation. Philippe’s agreed that it would be an interesting display due to our proximity to Union Station.
Is parking free?
Parking is free and is available only while you are in the restaurant eating. Otherwise your car can be towed.
FUN FACTS
1. We have XXXL T-shirts available.
2. Employee with the most time worked at Philippe’s is 46 years.
3. Happy Time Circus used to meet every Monday at 12:00 pm.
4. Number of rolls used daily ranges between 2,200 – 4,500
5. Pounds of meat used weekly = 7000 pounds of beef, pork and lamb
6. Dozens of eggs used weekly = 300 dozen for breakfast and pickling
7. Number of customers weekly = approximately 25,000 customers
8. Our area code has never changed
