Workers, Customers Bid Farewell to Original Pantry Café with Last Meals
A Bittersweet Day for Long-Time Employees and Loyal Customers
Tearful last meals were served Sunday at the Original Pantry Café in downtown Los Angeles, where yearslong employees and devoted customers bid their goodbyes amid the restaurant’s anticipated closure.
Dispute with Union Leads to Closure
After being in business for more than 100 years, the downtown staple is shutting down Sunday evening. The closure comes after a dispute between its owners and the union representing the employees. After they weren’t able to come to an agreement for a new contract, the eatery’s owners decided to shut it down.
Workers Reflect on Years of Service
It was a bittersweet day for workers who’ve serviced their clientele for years as they wonder what’s next for them. The usual menu staples were offered at the café, but a sense of sadness was felt at the establishment as both customers and employees reflected on times at the restaurant.
Customers Share Memories and Stories
Monterey Park resident Wesley, who opted not to share his last name, said he felt compelled to have one last meal at the Pantry.
“This place is iconic, you know, it’s LA,” he said.
Wesley explained that he’d been dining at the Original Pantry since the late 60s, when his father would take him. As he grew up and began his own family, he made sure to take his daughter to the eatery.
“It is emotional just because it’s not going to be here tomorrow,” he said. “You talk to people in line and they all have stories… it really means a lot to them and that’s why there’s a line around the corner.”
The Original Pantry Café’s Rich History
The Original Pantry Café was once owned by former LA Mayor Richard Riordan. After he died in 2023, his trust took over and listed the diner for sale last August. It decided to close the restaurant amid a labor dispute with UNITE HERE Local 11.
Closing Day Ceremony
The restaurant is closing for good at 5 p.m. Sunday.
Conclusion
The closure of the Original Pantry Café marks the end of an era in downtown Los Angeles. The restaurant’s rich history and iconic status have left a lasting impact on the community, and its employees and customers will miss it dearly.
FAQs
* What is the reason for the closure of the Original Pantry Café?
The restaurant is closing due to a dispute between its owners and the union representing the employees, UNITE HERE Local 11.
* How long has the Original Pantry Café been in business?
The restaurant has been in business for more than 100 years.
* What is the last day of operation for the Original Pantry Café?
The restaurant is closing for good at 5 p.m. Sunday.
