With almost two months of chilly winter ahead, we’re craving cozy comfort food. From hearty soups to meatloaf, mashed potatoes, mile-high sandwiches, and decadent desserts, the popularity of timeless, traditional foods is spearheading a modern culinary phenomenon. Even chic DTLA hotels are getting in on the comfort food trend, with Moonlark’s Dinette at the Hoxton and Denae’s Diner at the Delphi, not far from Circa. For a more iconic experience, Philippe The Original, Coles French Dip and The Original Pantry offer satisfying meals with a side of LA history – some even have a shady past! And if you want to make a difference during these unprecedented times, José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen is distributing free hot meals to the public during the California Fires. Check their website for giving opportunities.

Denae’s Diner The Delphi 550 S Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Denae’s Diner is a modern take on a retro Hollywood diner that seamlessly blends the classic charm of the past with contemporary flair. Nestled in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, Denae’s Diner captures the essence of vintage Hollywood glamour while providing a trendy and nostalgic dining experience. With a modern twist on classic American diner fare, the menu showcases both retro favorites and innovative culinary creations. Diners can indulge in dishes such as the signature smash burger, house Hot Beef, over-the-top milkshakes, and traditional diner breakfast items. Cocktails include classic twists, and even a frozen drink machine serving an all-fresh Miami Vice. 

Moonlark’s Dinette The Hoxton 1060 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Where the laid-back atmosphere of your beloved childhood diner meets West Coast quality, product and preparation. Moonlark’s Dinette delivers a thoroughly unfussy, enticing exploration of Americana on a plate. The menu marries locally sourced, approachable comfort food with Chef Chris Pandel’s signature style of “come as you are” hospitality. The all day menu features breakfast dishes, fresh baked items, snacks, sandwiches, desserts, cocktails, wines by the glass, beers, and cider. 

Fixins Soul Kitchen L.A. Live 800 W Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Oak Park native, former NBA All-Star and Mayor of Sacramento Kevin Johnson and his wife, Michelle, founded Fixins to combine his love of Black culture and her obsession with great food. Fixins seeks to set the standard for the American soul food experience by offering authentic fare and impeccable service in a hip, energetic atmosphere. Guests experience “Black Excellence” through their delicious cuisine, friendly service, and spotless restaurant.  Fixins staff anticipate the guests’ every need so that each and every customer leaves satisfied, full, and looking forward to their next visit.

Cole’s French Dip 118 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Cole’s, Originator of the French Dip Sandwich, opened in 1908 in the Pacific Electric building. Evoking the spirit of an early 20th century saloon, the welcoming 40-foot Red Car Bar boasts original glass lighting, penny tile floors, and historic photos, preserved in the restoration of this cherished landmark. During Prohibition, Cole’s was a favorite hangout for gangsters like Mickey Cohen (If you were a regular customer, your “coffee” came with a little something extra!). Today, continuing the tradition of the Golden Age of American cocktails, the Red Car Bar’s ample selection of premium spirits, drafts, and historic cocktails compliment the saloon’s classic French Dip sandwiches, appetizers, salads and sides.

Philippe The Original 1001 N Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Philippe The Original is one of the oldest and best known restaurants in Southern California, established in 1908 by Philippe Mathieu, who claimed the distinction of having created the “French Dipped Sandwich.” One day in 1918, while making a sandwich, Mathieu inadvertently dropped the sliced french roll into the roasting pan filled with juice still hot from the oven. The patron, a policeman, said he would take the sandwich anyway and returned the next day with some friends asking for more dipped sandwiches. And so was born the “French Dipped Sandwich,” so called either because of Mathieu’s French heritage, the French roll the sandwich is made on, or because the officer’s name was French. The answer is lost to history.

The Original Pantry 877 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Established in 1924, The Original Pantry has spent eight decades providing its customers with generous portions of traditional American cuisine. More than just a casual eatery, The Pantry offers diners an atmosphere rich in character and history. An integral piece of Los Angeles culture, The Pantry has served many movie stars, politicians and other celebrities, and continues to be a gathering spot for the city’s movers and shakers. As The Pantry’s past owner, former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan liked to boast, “We never close. We’re never without a customer.”

Engine Co. No. 28 644 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

An LA fixture for decades, Engine Co. No. 28 features new age American comfort food. Housed in a former Los Angeles Fire Department fire station built in 1912, the restaurant is reminiscent of the classic grills of San Francisco and New York with mahogany booths, granite bar, and an original brass fire pole with eclectic old filament light bulbs. The menu is based on recipes from American fire houses, with selections that include a “signature” meatloaf, crispy hand-breaded fried chicken, a burger to remember, a great assortment of handmade cocktails, a consistently updated wine list, and an impressive draft beer selection. 

Wexler’s Deli Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Wexler’s Deli stands for three things: tradition, craftsmanship, and quality. Born of a desire to serve classic Jewish deli food made by people who care, Wexler’s uses old-school methods to handcraft their pastrami and smoked salmon. After curing in a special blend of salt and spices, the meats and fish are slowly smoked in-house over apple wood and sliced by hand in front of your eyes. Wexler’s also serves breakfast sandwiches (Cheezy Eggs, Bagel with Lox) and a selection of sides including coleslaw, potato salad, egg salad, and tuna salad. Wash it all down with a good old fashioned Chocolate Phosphate or Chocolate Egg Cream.

Nick’s Cafe 1300 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Nick’s Cafe started back in 1948 by Nick, his Navy buddy, and Lois the server. Nick was just out of the Navy and decided to open a little diner across from the River Station freight yards. After a successful run, Nick sold his diner to a couple of LAPD detectives who put in a train that ran around the ceiling. After many good years, the place fell into dark times – the old rail yards were grown over and the freight buildings were empty. Flash forward to 2009, when the current owner took over. Now, over 60 years after its inception, Nick’s is still known for great food, the smiles, and the coffee. And be sure to check out their border-style skillets, such as breakfast quesadilla, huevos rancheros, and chilaquiles.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Cole’s French Dip

Photo #2: Denae’s Diner

Photo #3: Moonlark’s Dinette

Photo #4: Fixins Soul Kitchen

Photo #5: Cole’s French Dip

Photo #6: Philippe The Original

Photo #7: The Original Pantry

Photo #8: Engine Co. No. 28

Photo #9: Wexler’s Deli

Photo #10: Nick’s Cafe