What is National French Dip Day?

National French Dip Day, celebrated on November 12th, is a day dedicated to savoring the classic French Dip sandwich, a favorite comfort food known for its tender roast beef served on a crusty baguette and dipped in rich, savory au jus. This sandwich, often accompanied by melted cheese and caramelized onions, is beloved for its flavorful combination of warm beef and the satisfying crunch of bread, enhanced by dipping into a hot, flavorful broth.

The French Dip originated in Los Angeles, and its invention is credited to either Philippe’s “The Original” or Cole’s, two historic restaurants with long-standing claims to creating the first French Dip in the early 1900s. This day celebrates the rich history of the sandwich, as well as the joy it brings to food lovers across the U.S.

History and Origin

The origin story of the French Dip is rooted in Los Angeles in the early 20th century. Both Philippe’s “The Original” and Cole’s Pacific Electric Buffet claim to have invented the sandwich in the 1910s. According to Philippe’s, the sandwich was created by accident when a customer’s French roll fell into the pan of meat drippings. The customer enjoyed it so much that it became a requested item on the menu. Cole’s tells a similar story, where the au jus dip was introduced to satisfy a customer’s request for a softer sandwich.

Despite the rivalry over its creation, the French Dip sandwich has become a staple in American comfort food, celebrated for its rich flavors and customizable toppings. National French Dip Day, recognized on November 12th, celebrates this iconic dish and honors the legacy of both restaurants that helped popularize it.

Who Celebrates National French Dip Day?

National French Dip Day is observed by food lovers, restaurants, and fans of classic American sandwiches. Here’s who typically celebrates this flavorful day:

• Food Enthusiasts and Sandwich Lovers: Fans of hearty, savory sandwiches enjoy National French Dip Day by indulging in a French Dip at a favorite local restaurant or trying their hand at making one at home.
• Restaurants and Diners: Many restaurants that serve French Dip sandwiches offer special deals, discounts, or unique variations on National French Dip Day, inviting customers to enjoy this classic meal.
• Philippe’s “The Original” and Cole’s: The two historic Los Angeles restaurants continue to celebrate their role in the sandwich’s origin. Both locations often see increased foot traffic on National French Dip Day, as locals and tourists alike come to experience the authentic French Dip.
• Home Cooks and Food Bloggers: Culinary enthusiasts and bloggers may celebrate the day by sharing recipes, photos, and variations of the French Dip, from traditional to modern twists like adding horseradish or extra toppings.
• Local Food Festivals and Events: Some cities and food festivals honor the French Dip by hosting special tastings or sandwich-themed events. This day gives communities a reason to come together over delicious, comforting food.

Slogans and Themes

National French Dip Day revolves around themes of comfort, indulgence, and tradition. Popular slogans include “Dip Into Flavor,” highlighting the appeal of the au jus dip, and “A Classic with a Twist,” celebrating the various ways to customize the sandwich. Another common theme is “Taste the Tradition,” emphasizing the sandwich’s history and its role in American cuisine. The overall message of the day is about celebrating a beloved comfort food that’s simple yet packed with flavor.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors

• Rich Browns and Golden Tones: Representing the crusty baguette and savory beef, these colors evoke the hearty warmth of the French Dip sandwich.
• Deep Reds and Burgundy: These colors reflect the savory au jus and add a touch of boldness, symbolizing flavor and indulgence.
• Classic White: Often used to represent the bread, white adds a sense of simplicity and cleanliness, much like a classic diner or sandwich shop setting.

Symbols

• Dipping Bowl with Au Jus: A bowl of au jus is the defining feature of the French Dip experience, representing the key element that sets it apart from other sandwiches.
• Crusty Baguette: The baguette or French roll is symbolic of the sandwich’s foundation, representing the perfect balance between crispy and soft textures.
• Beef Roast: Slices of roast beef symbolize the heartiness and flavor of the sandwich, a key ingredient that gives the French Dip its signature taste.

Patterns

• Rustic Textures: Patterns that mimic the texture of a crusty baguette or lightly charred beef add to the visual appeal of the French Dip’s hearty elements.
• Bold, Classic Fonts: Retro or classic diner-style fonts are often used in advertising and signage, creating a nostalgic feeling that evokes the tradition of this iconic sandwich.
• Checkered Diner Patterns: Black-and-white or red-and-white checkered patterns, commonly associated with diners, emphasize the classic American setting where French Dip sandwiches are often enjoyed.

How to Celebrate National French Dip Day

Here are some delicious and fun ways to celebrate National French Dip Day and make the most of this sandwich-centric holiday:

• Enjoy a French Dip at a Local Restaurant: Many restaurants offer special French Dip promotions or unique takes on the classic sandwich for National French Dip Day. Look for deals at your favorite sandwich spot or diner.
• Make a French Dip at Home: Try making a homemade French Dip! Using thinly sliced roast beef, a crusty baguette, and a savory au jus, you can create your own version of the classic. Add Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, or horseradish for a twist.
• Visit Philippe’s or Cole’s in Los Angeles: If you’re near Los Angeles, visit one of the original restaurants where the French Dip was born. Both Philippe’s and Cole’s offer an authentic experience and a taste of culinary history.
• Host a French Dip Party: Gather friends and family for a French Dip celebration at home. Set up a sandwich bar with toppings like cheese, onions, and sauces, allowing everyone to customize their own dip.
• Share Your French Dip on Social Media: Use popular hashtags like #NationalFrenchDipDay and #FrenchDip to share your favorite version of the sandwich. Whether dining out or making it at home, sharing photos is a fun way to join the celebration.

Why is National French Dip Day Important?

National French Dip Day celebrates a classic American sandwich with a rich history and universal appeal. The French Dip is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of comfort, tradition, and flavor. This day brings food lovers together, inviting them to indulge in a hearty, satisfying sandwich while honoring its storied origins in Los Angeles.

Beyond the enjoyment of the sandwich itself, National French Dip Day is an opportunity to appreciate the simplicity of good food and the power of local culinary traditions to become iconic. The day also highlights the role that classic diners and restaurants play in American food culture, preserving a piece of history and creating memories for generations of diners.