Travel Back In Time At 9 Of L.A.'s Oldest & Most Historic Bars

Cole's

Step inside the timewarp that is Cole's, believed to be L.A.'s oldest bar and restaurant, as well as the originator of the French dip sandwich (Philippe's, however, argues it served the first). Established in 1908 on the ground floor of the Pacific Electric building which served as the main hub of the Pacific Electric railway network, Cole's was a popular, highly trafficked spot thanks to its prime location. Although it underwent renovations when it changed ownership in 2007, new management took special care to ensure that much of its original decor and details remain intact. So much so, Cole's was honored with the Los Angeles Conservancy’s Preservation Award for outstanding historic preservation. In its current state, Cole's boasts the original 40-foot mahogany Red Car Bar, penny tile floors and original glass lighting fixtures reminiscent of Prohibition Era-saloons. Take a seat atop the L.A. landmark's burgundy leather bar stools or slide into a booth as you sip on classic cocktails and drafts for trip back in time unlike any other. [Photo Via] [Photos via, via] Cole's 118 East 6th St. Los Angeles 90013