On March 2, 2025, the Original Pantry Cafe in Los Angeles closed after 101 years of operation. This iconic diner, known for its 24-hour service, has been a staple in the community since its opening in 1924, raising questions about the reasons behind its closure.
- Original Pantry Cafe closed after 101 years.
- Opened in 1924 as a 24-hour diner.
- Closure linked to real estate value maximization.
- Union disputes over employee contracts occurred.
- Riordan valued restaurant's longevity and community.
- Emotional impact on long-time employees expressed.
The Original Pantry Cafe opened in 1924 and became a beloved dining spot in downtown Los Angeles. It moved to its current location in 1950 due to freeway construction and remained a 24-hour diner for decades. The restaurant was only closed twice before its final closure: once for a health inspection in 1997 and again during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite reopening, it no longer operated 24/7, limiting its hours significantly.
At the time of its closure, the diner employed 25 workers, a significant reduction from the 80 employees before the pandemic. The family trust managing the property stated that closing the diner was necessary to maximize the real estate’s value, particularly in light of its proximity to major venues like L.A. Live and Crypto.com Arena, which are set to play pivotal roles during the 2028 Summer Olympics. The trust’s statement emphasized the need to provide financial resources for its charitable foundation, which supports educational initiatives.
Union representatives expressed disappointment over the closure, arguing that the restaurant was profitable and that the workers were integral to its value. Union president Kurt Petersen criticized the trust’s handling of the situation, claiming that workers were given an ultimatum to either leave or face closure. The union is currently negotiating severance and other aspects related to the closure, highlighting ongoing tensions between the trust and the employees.
Despite the trust’s claims, many former employees and union leaders believe that the late Mayor Richard Riordan, who owned the diner for 42 years, would have preferred to preserve the restaurant’s legacy over financial gain. The Original Pantry Cafe’s designation as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 1987 adds another layer of complexity, as it could delay any potential demolition.
The closure of the Original Pantry Cafe marks the end of an era for a cherished Los Angeles institution. As the community reflects on its legacy, the future of the property remains uncertain, with the potential for redevelopment looming over its historic significance.
