Cole’s , Los Angeles

An old-time rival of Philippe's famous French dip spot, Cole is the classier, more urbane of the two. Lovingly restored to its original glory and reopened after decades of inactivity, Cole's is one of the most popular downtown food destinations. Drop by during happy hour to enjoy a signature cocktail—some truly great concoctions!—and survey a slice of motley downtown demographics: mellow professionals draped over their after-work aperitifs, keen-eyed tourists, seasoned winos, local artists escaping their lofts for an evening break. The menu is short, perhaps the shortest in LA, but what's on it is finger-licking good. Vegetarians, beware: you would have to tough it out with a tomato soup and fries, the only non-meat choices on the menu. - Kate Sobol

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