la.foodblogging

Philippe is well known to most Angelinos. Yes, the sandwiches are great at an affordable $4.60. While I usually prefer the breakfast menu to the sandwiches because I’m just an omelet and pancakes kind of girl, I actually went to Philippe for lunch today. One of my friends in the office has the most adorable two sons. He and his wife humor me by letting me be Auntie Pauline now and again. The problem is these two kids are picky little eaters and get a little antsy when the grown-ups start talking, so finding a place to lunch together can be a challenge.

Philippe works out great for situations like these. First, this is such a casual environment that people are not uptight about kids being around them. Then the eclectic décor of model trains and other miniatures make kids comfortable to eat there. Okay, maybe occasionally the models make kids want to run up to see them, but that’s what they are there for. Finally, the most important reason – the food.

The kids understand simple foods like sandwiches, fruit cups, and milk, and one order is more than enough food for the two boys to share. For us grown ups, we usually get either a bowl of chili or a sandwich with a bit of mustard. One of the things that has always surprised me when I read or hear about other people’s compliments about Philippe is no one has ever said anything about the mustard. That mustard must have horseradish or wasabi mixed into it. It is some powerful stuff. My friend loves telling the story about a guy who used to work in our office lacing his sandwich with a huge dollop of the mustard. My friend tried to warn him about the mustard, but this guy said he was tough and could handle any mustard. Wanting to maintain his stoicism, he refused to say anything was wrong after his first bite, but then a tear rolled from the corner of his eye down his face, and that said it all. The mustard is for sale ($4.00) at Philippe, but if you choose to make a purchase, I recommend getting it from the lady at the candy counter. 1) the lunch line at Philippe can get really long; 2) if you buy the mustard from the candy counter, you will not be charged tax for it.

For dessert, while the parents and kids were eating healthily by enjoying the fruit cup ($1.70), I went for the custard cup ($1.40). The custard at Philippe isn’t anything special, but I love it nevertheless. It is the perfect texture, not too sweet, and just the right amount to end a meal. Today though, it’s not my decision about the food that matters. It’s the kids’, and I think this picture is the biggest compliment Philippe can hope to get from a mighty tough critic.

Philippe
1001 N. Alameda St.
Los ANgeles, CA 90012
(213) 628-3781
Open 7 days a week - 6am to 10pm
Free Parking!!!

By Pauline (see more of her posts).