Sandwiches galore is what Philippe has to offer, but they also have sides, such as salads, soups, chili, and of course, desserts. Their famous sandwich is the French Dipped Sandwich, which is a French roll dipped with the “jus” from their meats. Sounds a bit odd, but it’s addicting. The potato salad makes a great compliment to any sandwich. If you’re looking for something different, they have picked eggs, beets, and even pig’s feet. Yep, that’s right. Pig’s feet.

Philippe isn’t just any sandwich shop, they get a bit classy with their wine and beer list, so you can take your meal up to the next level. They open at 6am and it’s worth coming in early just for their breakfast specials. Their French toast is thick and will melt in your mouth. If you’re looking for a healthier breakfast, they’ve got cereals, and even fruit.

Opened in 1908, they stay true to their recipes and are eager for customers’ feedback. They’ve been in the business for a long time, so they know what people like. Their proud of what they do and as they say on their website, only their prices have changed. Philippe is probably one of the best places to go to for a sandwich and the original French dipped sandwich was created here, so you know it’s got to be good.

Philippe The Original Restaurant
www.philippes.com
(213) 628-3781
1001 N Alameda St
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Mon-Sun 6am to 10pm

Everyone loves Italian food and pizza and Bottega Louie has some tasty dishes that are combined with beautiful décor that you’ll have a hard time believing that you’re in LA. You simply have got to try the Portobello fries that everyone is talking about. And you can’t forget the onion soup either. It’s a perfect side dish for any entrée. As far as main dishes go, you can’t go wrong when you order the pizza. The pizza comes straight out of the oven piping hot and the ooey, gooey cheese is fantastic.

The décor is breath taking. The ceilings are high and elegant and the simplicity of the design adds to the ambience. It mimics Italy with the white marble, glistening bar and white walls. But it’s not one of those little Italian cafes, it’s huge and is loud, so don’t plan on having important conversations. The wait staff is attentive and knowledgeable about the dishes and restaurant.

They’ve got a full bar, so you can get any drink that you want or have a bottle of wine to go with your romantic dinner. You definitely have to try their desserts. The chocolate peanut tart is a perfect blend of chocolate and peanuts. Overall, four stars and a nice place to go to escape LA.

Bottega Louie
www.bottegalouie.com
(866) 418-9162
700 S Grand Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Mon-Sun 6.30am to 11pm

Food, drinks, ice cream, and a bakery can all be found at Milk, a young, hip restaurant that constantly gets rave reviews. They’ve had their share of write-ups in newspapers and have even been on Cupcake Wars, so you know that they know what they’re doing. Reminiscent of an old-fashioned soda shop, you can find just about everything you want for a quick lunch.

If you’re hungry, then grab a soup, salad, or sandwich. They even have a couple of pasta dishes. Got kids? No probs. They’ve got a special kids’ menu just for them. As far as drinks go, they’ve got the regular coffee, teas, and juices, but they’ve also got a rocking dulce de leche latte. And if you need a pick-me-up, then try the caffeine rush. Coffee with a shot of espresso is guaranteed to knock your socks off.

Best of all is the desserts. They’ve got a gorgeous signature cookie basket with iced spiced molasses, snicker doodles, and more. And of course, you can’t forget the cakes. If you’ve got a birthday coming up, you should try the ones they have on offer. You can’t leave without trying their ice cream: shakes, ice cream cakes, and sundaes all add to the soda shop mindset. Next time you’re looking for something to do on a lazy afternoon, come to Milk.

Milk
www.themilkshop.com
(323) 939-6455
7290 Beverly Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Mon-Thu, Sun 9am to 10pm
Fri-Sat 9am to 11pm

Good food, great atmosphere and they even deliver. Vees Café has it all. Small and cozy this coffee shop offers tradition coffee shop fare such as chai teas and espressos as well as food with a Mexican twist, such as their spinach tortillas and green sauce. There are also hot and cold sandwiches that you can eat with a delicious smoothie or freshly squeezed juice, even veggie juice. Their wide selection of coffee and teas guarantees that you’ll go home happy. They have loose tea leaves as well if you’re looking for something more natural. As if that’s not enough, they even have milkshakes.

It’s artsy and you might see people playing guitar or looking through their camera lens. It’s a relief to find a coffee shop that’s not geared towards yuppies or dinks. True to its artsy nature they offer vegan options as well. Want soy milk? No prob, your wish is their command. Green and down to earth, they’ve got friendly service and value their customers. They even have those punch cards that will get you a free drink.

Don’t forget dessert. After all, coffee shops are just as famous for their pastries, cookies and other sweets. Their red velvet cupcakes are absolutely divine. The only downside is that on weekends they close a bit early. Yet it’s for a good cause, they want the staff to be able to go out and party. Life doesn’t get much better than that.

Vees Café
www.veescafe.net
(323) 931-8337
5418 W Adams Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90016
Mon-Fri 7am to 8:30pm
Sat-Sun 7am to 8pm

You really can’t go wrong with French food and Comme Ca cooks to perfection. A modern day French brasserie that open just three short years ago has already become a popular restaurant. Wine isn’t the only drinks they have to offer. They have an 18A drink menu that will wow you with their unique mix of drinks.

There are sandwiches and salad dishes galore to choose from in addition to seafood such as oysters and shrimp cocktails. No French restaurant would be complete without the cheese and Comme Ca is no exception, you can choose from a couple of cheese platters on offer. Dinner is especially nice and they have a different specialty every day to choose from. You should start with an hors d’oeuvres or too, with endive salad, crab cakes, soups, and many other dishes. Among the entrees you’ll find duck, salmon, lobster, as well as beef, and even cheese.

Not enough? There are plenty of side dishes, such as pommes frites, as well as dessert. The crème brulee and profiteroles are especially tasty. The owner and main chef is especially proud of his restaurant, so if you have a suggestion or would like to compliment the wonderful dishes, send your regards to the chef.

Comme Ca
www.commecarestaurant.com
(323) 782-1104
8479 Melrose Ave
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Mon-Fri 11:30am to 3pm
Mon-Sun 5:30pm to 11pm
Sat-Sun 10am to 3pm

Photo by Talya Stone