When The Original Pantry Cafe shut its doors after more than 100 years, it marked the end of an era for Los Angeles.
From the moment the beloved landmark served its first cup of coffee in 1924, they operated 24/7 with very few exceptions. The diner was a fixture of Los Angeles.
That was, until they closed for good on March 2, 2025.
After the death of owner and former mayor of Los Angeles, Richard Riordan, in 2023, ownership of The Pantry was placed in his trust. It was reported that the Riordan Trust planned to sell the establishment, and that’s what they did.
Just six months after the devastating news, new owner Leo Pustilnikov says he plans to reopen the iconic diner on New Year’s Eve.
The news was announced via a press release from the union representing the employees on September 9, according to LA Eater. The outlet reported that, while the press release claimed more details would follow on September 11, it was misinterpreted as meaning the restaurant would open on September 11.
“Just before 9 a.m., a line stretched down James M. Wood Boulevard with onlookers who seemed to be waiting for the doors to open,” LA Eater said.
“The pantry is sort of like the story of LA,” Pustilnikov said during a press conference. “It’s had its ups and downs, and hopefully, much like LA and much like Downtown, the reopening will boost the rebirth of Downtown with everything coming to it.”
