The Original Pantry Cafe, a cherished dining establishment in Downtown Los Angeles, is set to reopen on December 31, 2025, after a temporary closure due to a labor dispute. Located at 877 S Figueroa Street, this landmark diner has been serving classic American breakfasts since its inception in 1924. The cafe’s sudden closure in March 2025 marked the end of a 101-year legacy of continuous operation, a tradition that had been maintained until recent changes prompted by the pandemic.
The new owner, real estate entrepreneur Leo Pustilnikov, has reached an agreement with Unite Here Local 11 to rehire union workers and formally recognize the union. This decision aligns with Pustilnikov’s commitment to preserving the café’s cultural and historical significance within the community. As noted by union co-president Kurt Petersen, the reopening is highly anticipated following the abrupt closure that stirred considerable public outcry.
Diners can look forward to enjoying longstanding favorites such as pancakes, omelets, and French toast, reinforcing the café’s reputation for hearty American fare. The Original Pantry Cafe relocated to its current site in 1950 and has since become a beloved institution in the area. Formerly owned by Richard Riordan, who served as the mayor of Los Angeles from 1993 to 2001, the diner operated under the Riordan family trust until his passing in 2023.
The cafe’s closure was particularly poignant as it had only faced brief interruptions in service, notably due to a 1997 health inspection and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The diner was known for its tradition of never locking its doors, a practice that was interrupted by the recent pandemic-related adjustments.
Public sentiment regarding the café’s closure was immediate and vocal. On September 11, a gathering occurred outside the café as community members expressed their support. Festooned with balloons and a pancake-shaped cake, the scene was lively, but the diner remained closed that day due to the miscommunication regarding its reopening.
Pustilnikov’s vision for the café includes not only restoring its menu but also ensuring that it remains a vital part of the community. By working alongside the union to rehire staff, he aims to reaffirm the diner’s role as a gathering place for Angelenos. As the reopening date approaches, excitement builds for what many consider a crucial part of Los Angeles’s culinary heritage.
The Original Pantry Cafe’s return is a testament to the resilience of local businesses and the commitment of its new ownership to honor the establishment’s rich history while adapting to modern needs.
