Los Angeles Historic Restaurants & Cafes Apple Pan to Clifton's (A-C)

LOS ANGELES HISTORIC RESTAURANTS & CAFES OF THE 30's, 40's, 50's & 60's APPLE PAN RESTAURANT TO COLE'S PE BUFFET (A-C)

Americana Restaurant, 210 Atlantic Ave Long Beach, CA 90802 562-435-4030

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This place I found just by driving by. Very quaint, with a nice interior dating from the '40s (from a prior restaurant). Friendly owner and good old fashion comfort food like Hot Turkey Sandwiches. You're going to like it!

(El) Adobe de Capistrano Restaurant, 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949-493-1163 (since 1948)

The El Adobe de Capistrano is a very beautiful restaurant in a historic adobe home. El Adobe de Capistrano became a restaurant in 1948. I'm including it here despite a recent complete remodel, because the new interior has a time machine effect of its own. You feel like you have been transported back to the old Californeano days of Spanish Mexico. The restaurant is owned by Richard O'Neill, a member of the pioneering family that once owned all of Camp Pendleton (Rancho Santa Margarita) and Rancho Mission Viejo. Mr. O'Neill at one point owned or co-owned around 30 restaurants, including the Blarney Castle, the Bull 'n Bush, the Tiny Naylor chain and the HMS Bounty.

This is a remarkable restaurant - a great stop between San Diego and Los Angeles. And make sure to visit the Mission San Juan Capistrano while you're here.

Alpine Inn, 833 W. Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 310-323-6520 (since around 1968)

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What a great find! The Alpine Inn restaurant is part of a whole Alpine Village. I went to the Alpine Inn on a Monday night when they had a big band playing with a great singer doing mostly Sinatra. There is a variety of music every night. The Alpine Inn has a mildly old feel, but the food is excellent and reasonably priced and above all the dancing makes this one of the last true supper clubs in the Los Angeles metro area. I don't know if it is typical, but we were served by the cashier and the service was truly excellent. The majority of the crowd were seniors. One couple in particular - probably in their 80's - danced up a storm and were kissing and hugging the whole time. It literally brought tears to my eyes. The human spirit soars here! Sadly, it also reminds one how much we have lost in American culture in recent years. If you live in the LA area and don't become a regular here - your nuts! Very conveniently located right off the 110 freeway.

UPDATE: Rumors are the Alpine Inn may be endangered. Given the amount of land it sits on and the incredible location - not hard to believe someone would want this locale. There goes the last of the true Supper Clubs?

Not far from the San Franciscan and Henry Moffit's Chicken Pies. And don't forget, when it rains in Los Angeles, it comes down in Torrance!

Anna's Italian Restaurant. 10929 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90064 310 474-0102

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Great place. Sort of a Sardi's feel but with a twist. The sketches on the walls are of long time employees, if I'm not mistaken. Pizza here was magnifico! Nice to find time machines toward the West side of town. Reasonable prices.

Near the Apple Pan, Billingsleys and the Arsenal Bar.

The Apple Pan, 10801 W. Pico Blvd. West Los Angeles, (310) 475-3585, Tues-Sun 11AM to midnight, Fri-Sat to 1AM. opened 4-11-1947

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Picture of the Apple Pan Restaurant by Andre T.

The Apple Pan Restaurant is considered to have the best hamburgers on the West Side of Los Angeles [Cassell's is the challenger in Koreatown, as well as Knowlwood's (remodeled) and of course Tommy's all over the place]. I may not be an expert, but these burgers are the best I've ever had. Great apple pie. The Apple Pan restaurant is small but has a very authentic ambiance. Counter seating only, but fast service. I'm not sure, but the their neon sign is in such good condition, my guess is that it's new. I'll have to investigate. Tillamook cheddar is used on the cheeseburgers. Johnny Rockets is said to be influenced by the Apple Pan. The Apple Pan restaurant has 26 red stools, which comprises its entire seating space. The Apple Pan is still with us because longtime owner Martha Gamble fought off mega offers for her property. The first owners were her parents Alan and Ellen. Martha Gamble’s grandmothers invented the pie recipes. The Apple Pan's motto: "Quality forever" and they live up to it.

The Apple Pan Restaurant is near to the Anna's Italian Restaurant, Arsenal Bar, Billingsly's Restaurant and not too far from Dan Tana's Restaurant and Nate 'n Al's Restaurant, and a short drive to the Buggy Whip bar and restaurant, Pann's restaurant and Dinah's Family Restaurant.

Astro's Family Restaurant, 2300 Fletcher Dr. Los Angeles 323-663-9241 open 24 hours. Since 1958

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Astro's Family Restaurant is an outstanding example of Googie architecture, in great shape inside and out. Good food too. Let's make sure to support the Astro's Family Restaurant with our business, so it does not go the way of Johnie's Broiler!

The Astro's Family Restaurant is owned same owner as Jan's Restaurant in West Hollywood.

A good stop on a tour of the Red Lion, the Tam O'Shanter Restaurant, the Roost bar, Club Tee Gee bar and the former site of Algemac's Restaurant.

Bahooka Ribs and Grog, 4501 N. Rosemead Blvd, Rosemead, 626-285-1241, Hours
Mon-Thu 11am-9pm
Fri-Sat 11am-10:30pm
Sun 12pm-9pm since 1967

Rating: T T T T T

Each both is surrounded by aquariums. The restaurant is darker than it appears in the photo.

Bahooka Ribs and Grog may well be the most original and unique restaurant in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Well worth the drive no matter were you live (even Alaska). Bahooka Ribs and Grog has 105 aquariums. The most famous fish here is a Pacu named Rufus, who weighs more than 34 pounds. Impossible to describe accurately but it’s dark, romantic, quasi-Tiki Polynesian/nautical, with beautiful aquariums surrounding each booth. They have recently increased their number of Tiki's - always a good move! Tropical drinks and great food, especially the ribs. The Bahooka Ribs and Grog restaurant should have lines around the block, but it has been fairly quiet each time I’ve gone. The plates are huge – you might want to share one. Patronize this place!!! Some one will have to explain to me some day why they can't make creative places like this anymore. A scene from "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" was shot here, as well as the Jim Carrey picture "The Number 23".

UPDATE: Rob M. informs me that Bahooka's drinks are now in Tiki Mugs! Great idea. They are also having a 40th year celebration in November of 2007.

Bahooka Ribs and Grog is not far from Petrillo's Restaurant, Goody's Restaurant and Clearman's North Woods Restaurant. You can also combine your trip with a visit to not too far away Tamarack Inn, Clearman's Steak 'n Stein restaurant and Dal Rae's Restaurant.

Barney’s Beanery, 8447 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood 323 654-2287, Mon-Fri 11am-2am; Sat-Sun 10am-2am. Since 1920.

The bar - T T T T

Restaurant - T T T

Barney's Beanery is a colorful place and quite historic. It is located on a part of Santa Monica Blvd. in West Hollywood that was once Route 66. Established by John "Barney" Anthony who died 11-25-1968. Just about every classic movie star you can think of has eaten here. The bar at Barney's Beanery appears in the movie "the Doors" and it was a major Jim Morrison hangout (Janis Joplin as well). Bukowski hung out here at the bar and unfortunately liked the bar's former controversial sign. Body Double was also filmed here. Very extensive menu of down home American food. Barney's Beanery claims to be the Third Oldest Restaurant in Los Angeles proper. I guess that's true if you add "in its original location" (then I guess the oldest is Cole's and then Tam O'Shanter using that criterion).

Barney's Beanery is not far from Dan Tana's Restaurant, the Chateau Marmont Hotel, the Rainbow Bar and Grill, the Standard Hotel, the Troubadour, Duke's, Greenblatt's Deli and the Formosa Cafe.

Barones Famous Italian Restaurant, 13726 Oxnard St. Van Nuys, CA

since 1945

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Booths at the original location of Barones Famous Italian Restaurant.

Current location of Barone's in the former Matterhorn site. Photo by Kathleen B.

Good old time feel. Good food. What more could you want in an Italian restaurant?

UPDATE: A reader has informed me that Barones Famous Italian Restaurant has temporarily closed and that possibly it will be moving to the Matterhorn. Let's hope they can recreate the great old ambiance in the new location.

UPDATE II: Barones Famous Italian Restaurant has now reopened in the historic Matterhorn Chief site, If one old place has to go, at least it's nice to have another old one come back.

Required stop on the Ventura Blvd tour of Dupar's Restaurant, Art's Deli, Casa Vega Restaurant and the La Frite French Restaurant.

Barragan's Mexican Restaurant, 1538 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 213-250-4256 (since 1961)

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Barragan's Mexican Restaurant is mostly remodeled, but it has a few old wooden booths. Can't beat their huge $3.99 breakfast specials that include coffee!

Barragan's Mexican Restaurant is near the Short Stop bar, Millie's, El Chavo Mexican Restaurant, El Cid Dinner theater and restaurant, Taix, the Brite Spot and the Tiki Ti.

Bear Pit Bar-B-Q Restaurant, 10825
Sepulveda Blvd., Mission Hills, 818 365-2509 since the 1940s

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You have to love the Bear Pit Bar-B-Q Restaurant neon sign. And they have a long established rep for great barbeque. Sawdust on the floor is always the mark of a good restaurant in my opinion. Up toward the north of the Valley. Owned by Andrew Schatz. Strangely, one ad for it in 1964 had it spelled Baier Pit. It was soon corrected.

There were (are?) two other locations: 132 N. Glendale, Glendale and 12377 Roscoe, Canoga Park.

Beeps Fast Food, 16063 Sherman Way, Van Nuys, CA 91406 (818) 781-0830

since 1956

I have left most drive up stands off of this site, since the theme here is basically historic interiors - but tBeeps Fast Food has such a nice Googie sign, I could not resist (and the Valley is running low on time machines). Had a great sandwich here as well.

(Tony's) Bella Vista Restaurant, 3116 W. Magnolia Blvd. Burbank, CA 818 843-0164

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Tony's Bella Vista Restaurant is a classic old and cozy Italian restaurant. Scrumptious food. What more can I say?

Formerly, the Lava Isle Restaurant (which closed in 1964), this is a nice place to stop on the time machine tour of Burbank including Chili John's Restaurant, the Smoke House Restaurant, Genio's Restaurant (now closed), Frank's Restaurant, the Safari Inn Motel and the Blue Room bar.

You can have an easy tour of Time Machines just driving down Magnolia Blvd. from North Hollywood to Burbank passing the Fire Fox Room, Sitton's North Hollywood Diner, Tony's Bella Vista, the Monte Carlo Delicatessen and Pinocchio's Restaurant and finally Tin Horn Flats (and I've probably missed a few on the way!).

Billingsley's Restaurant, 11326 W Pico Blvd - Los Angeles, CA. 310-477-1426

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It appears Billingsley's Restaurant started out at 5827 Sunset Blvd. (unless it was another place with the same name). It's funny that no matter how much I research, I still find great places by accidentally driving by them. This was a great find. The bar is in almost perfect original condition. I had a great Cobb Salad here as well. Owned by the Billingsley family of whom everyone knows Barbara Billingsley of "Leave it to Beaver" fame. She was the model for American mothers for years. And I think her scene in "Airport" as an interpreter of "jive" was a classic of comedy. Her warmth is more than adequately represented in this restaurant.

Billingsley's Restaurant is near the Arsenal bar, Nate 'n Al's, the Gas Lite bar and the Apple Pan restaurant.

Boardner’s Bar, 1652 N. Cherokee Ave. Hollywood 90028-6212, 323-462-9621, 11:30am to 2:00am daily, since 1942

Recently totally remodeled (but I'll keep it here since they have a nice owner and it's still a great place)

This is the original interior below of Boardner's:

Here's the new art deco interior:

It appears this location was first known as the "Cherokee House" in the 1930s. When Steve Boardner first took it over it was called the "52 Club". Stephen L. Boardner was born around 1914 and married at least three times, including a very brief marriage to actress Crystal Reeves.

Boardner's barwas featured in the movie "Ed Wood". The crowd at nighttime in Boardner's is definitely more interesting. It's funny how the ambiance of a bar, like this one, improves dramatically at night. Boardner's is nice and dark. Generally a young crowd. Despite the young crowd, this place doesn't make the mistake of playing music so loud, you can't have an intelligent conversation. The location is ideal being a block from Miceli's and Musso and Frank's - the Golden Triangle of Hollywood!

Boardner's is completely remodeled, which would normally send it to the "Old but Remodeled page - but the owner "Tricia La Belle" is so nice and the location and new interior are still great that I'll keep it here. Regulars still love it.

Boardner's is near the Frolic Room, the Pantages Theater, Miceli's Restaurant, Musso and Frank's, the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, Grauman's Chinese and Egyptian Movie Palaces, and the Power House bar.

Bob's Big Boy Restaurant, 4211 W Riverside Dr Burbank, CA 91505 818-843-9334 since 1949

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Bob's Big Boy is a classic Wayne McAllister coffee shop. This is the oldest surviving Big Boy Restaurant. Modernism par excellence. Well worth a visit, especially when they have a classic car show in the parking lot.

Bob's Big Boy Restaurant is near the Smoke House Restaurant, Frank's Steakhouse, Genio's Restaurant, Dimples Restaurant, Chili John's Restaurant, the Bella Vista Italian Restaurant, Tin Horn Flats, Monte Carlo Deli & Pinocchio's Restaurant and the Blue Room bar.

Bobby's Coffee Shop, 22821 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91364 818 225-1324

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Bobby's Coffee Shop is really popular, probably due in part to the lack of other old fashioned places in the area. Recommended by "April Baby" (check out her great website on life in the San Fernando Valley - Aprilbaby's California ). According to her "From 1947 until the early seventies It was a restaurant called the Chicken A-Go Go. For 32 years now it's been Bobby's ". I can verify the food's great here. Bobby's Coffee Shop does not have a whole lot of decor to speak of other than an old fashion counter, but you can't beat their breakfasts.

Brite Spot Restaurant,1918 W. Sunset Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90026 (213) 484-9800

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The Brite Spot Restaurant is a very friendly and hip place. Mildly old feel. Unique naugahyde booths. A mixed crowd from old folks to very stylish, hip young people. Good food with a creative menu. I definitely enjoyed eating at the Brite Spot, even though it's somewhat remodeled to appeal to the Silverlake/Echo Park hipster crowd.

Affiliated with Little Pedro's.

The Brite Spot Restaurant is near Taix French Restaurant, El Cid, El Chavo Mexican Restaurant, Millie's Restaurant, the Short Stop bar, and the Tiki Ti bar. Got to be one of your hippest areas!

Buggy Whip (The), 7420 La Tijera Blvd. Westchester, 310 645 7131 since 1949

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The Buggy Whip Restaurant is an excellent find near the Los Angeles airport (after numerous suggestions by readers). This restaurant has it all - great old time atmosphere and in my humble opinion fantastic food. The Buggy Whip is not inexpensive but huge plates can be shared. Very good service. Two large rooms and a bar. Highly recommended. Owner: Paul Darricarrere. Originally called "Peterson's Buggy Whip".

The Buggy Whip Restaurant is not far from Pann's Restaurant, the Cinema Bar, the Tattle Tale Bar, Dear John's restaurant and Dinah's Fried Chicken Restaurant.

The Bucket Restaurant, 4541 Eagle Rock Blvd., Eagle Rock, CA (323) 257-5654

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The Bucket Restaurant was a nice find in Eagle Rock. Looks like it might have once been a house. A unique restaurant with a very small bar (were it not for outside seating and being mostly a restaurant - this would beat the Harbor Room for smallest bar). Friendly owner. I had a great concoction called something like the "Cardiac" that was one of the best hamburgers I've ever had. Gives the Apple Pan a run for its money. I hope this is a big hang for the Occidental kids - this is great for the college crowd.

The Bucket Restaurant is a nice stop on the Eagle Rock tour of the Casa Bianca restaurant, the Capri restaurant, Colombo's Italian Restaurant and the Chalet Bar - and very close to Pasadena for the mega tour.

Bun 'n Burger Restaurant, 1000 E Main St, Alhambra, California (626) 281-6777 ( since 1941 )

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The Bun 'n Burger Restaurant is a cool place in an Hispanic area of town. Their special omelet (Adkins health food) may be the best I've ever had. Really nice neon sign. Nice round counter area. I think I tend to say nice and great a bit too much! Please send me suggestions for better adjectives. The neon looks great at night (wish I had a picture).

Not far from the Hat (original location).

Canetti's Seafood Grotto, 309 E. 22nd St. San Pedro, CA 310-831-4036

(since 1949)

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Canetti's Seafood Grotto is a diehard old historic restaurant in a very quiet part of San Pedro. Classic old neon sign. Canetti's has a fairly simple decor but good seafood at low prices. Good stop on a peaceful trip to a great old city. The owner has to be one of the friendliest guys in town and he's been here for the whole run (with his parents starting out even earlier nearby). I sort of wonder if this place was the inspiration for the restaurant in Mildred Pierce that has a big fish sign and is near the water (when Mildred is thinking of jumping in!).

Canetti's Seafood Grotto is near the Indian Bar, TC's Cocktail Lounge, the Alhambra bar and Rebel's bar.

Canter’s Deli, 419 N. Fairfax Ave. Los Angeles, 323-651-2030, since 1928 (1948 in this location) Open 24 hours.

The room that includes the bakery:

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Canter's Deli is one of the most famous restaurants in Los Angeles. Ben Canter started out in the restaurant business in New Jersey in 1924. The Canters moved their restaurant to East Los Angeles (Boyle Heights) in 1931 when that was still a predominantly Jewish neighborhood (the grave yards of East Los Angeles are full of Jewish names, reflecting those times). Canter's Deli moved to this location in 1948. Well preserved interior (it was once a movie theater). Outstanding deli food (stick with the specials for breakfast if you're on a budget), and validated parking. It’s open 24 hours which is one of the reasons Canter's Deli was once a Frank Zappa hangout (as well as a whole slew of 1960s Sunset Strip rock stars). Canter's Deli was also one of Jack Benny's favorite places. Did you know they now have a Las Vegas branch? In Las Vegas they decided on ulta-modern decor (probably a good idea since you could never replicate the original restaurant). The only movie I've noticed Canter's in is "Sunset Strip", which is probably worth seeing just for this reason. A minor but scary partial remodeling of the glass dividers between the booths recently occurred. Not an improvement in my opinion. I wish these wonderful places would understand that you can't improve on what's already perfect!

Canter's Deli is not far from Molly Malone's pub, the Farmer's Market (Patsy D'Amore's Pizza), El Coyote Mexican Restaurant and Tom Bergin's bar and restaurant.

Casa Bianca Italian Restaurant, 1650 Colorado Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 323 256 9617, Tues-Thur. 4PM to midnight, Fri-Sat, 4PM to 1 AM, closed Sunday and Monday.

since 1955

I have not eaten at the Casa Bianca Italian Restaurant yet, but I liked the exterior as I drove by and the interior as I peaked through the window seemed pretty original. I'll update you in the future. Good Italian restaurants are hard to find.

Casa Bianca Italian Restaurant is not far from Colombo's Restaurant, the Capri Restaurant, the Chalet bar and the Bucket restaurant

Casa Escobar Mexican Restaurant, 2500 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, 310-828-1315 since 1965

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Casa Escobar is a pleasant place, with an interesting exterior. It seemed quite similar to the Casa Vega restaurant (although not as dark). I didn’t get the chance to ask if they were owned by the same people.

Casa Escobar Mexican Restaurant is near the Galley Restaurant, Rae’s Restaurant, Rick's Tavern on Main Restaurant and bar, the Gas Lite Bar, Patrick's Roadhouse restaurant, Dolores Restaurant and Snug Harbor cafe.

Casa Vega Mexican Restaurant, 13301 Ventura Blvd Sherman Oaks, (818) 788-4868.

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Casa Vegas Mexican restaurant is a unique sort of place in the Valley. Very dark. Very friendly staff and good food. As you know, I'm a big fan of dark restaurants - much more relaxing.

You can make a great tour of old restaurants just traveling down Ventura Blvd. You'll find Dupar's restaurant (newer branch), Art's Deli, and the La Frite French restaurant.

Chez Jay’s, 1657 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, 310 395-1741

See my Los Angeles Bars pages

Chili John's Restaurant, 2018 W. Burbank Blvd., Burbank, CA (818) 846-3611

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Chili John's Restaurant was an incredible find (based on a reader's suggestion) in Burbank. Chili John's Restaurant almost looks like a movie set from a 1940's period piece (actually would be a great place to film a movie scene). Unique horseshoe shaped counter. Chili John's is a must see. I don't know if the Gen X'ers have discovered this place or not, but they would love it for sure. Friendly staff (owners?). Now that Chasen's is gone, Chili John's Restaurant at least deserves a nomination for the best Chili in LA metro (very unique and spicy). Curiously, the bathroom door has no lock, but you need not fear - it's so small you can easily hold it closed!

Chili John's Restaurant is not far from the Bella Vista Italian Restaurant, Genio's Restaurant (now closed), the Smoke House Restaurant, Tin Horn Flats Bar and Frank's Steakhouse Restaurant.

Chips Restaurant - 11908 Hawthorne Blvd, Hawthorne, CA 90250 (310) 679-2947

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Chips Restaurant has a great Googie exterior and sign. Fairly remodeled but still with an old feel inside. Good food of course. This is one of the very few time machines in Hawthorne.

Chips restaurant is the only one I recognized being used in the movie Hollywoodland. I'd give that movie 3 out of 5 stars. Well acted and definitely worth seeing, but the set design just didn't catch the old Los Angeles flavor quite as well as Chinatown and LA Confidential. They didn't use enough recognizable Los Angeles 50's sites, and using the remodeled Chips interior kind of threw things off. They did much better at costume design however. Of course, what the heck do I know about movies! I enjoy all movies about pre-70's LA.

Chips restaurant is near the Pizza Show Restaurant and the Rustic Lite bar.

Chop Suey Cafe & Lounge, 347 E 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 213-621-2872 (interior dates to 1935 I think)

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Given the recent massacre of historic restaurants in this town, the resurrection of a classic place (in the mode of the Pig 'n Whistle in Hollywood) is always happy news. Chop Suey Cafe & Lounge was once the famous "Far East Cafe" which dates from 1935 (the building may be 1896). Somehow, the wonderful wooden booths with a patina of over a seventy year's of use have survived. The new owner very wisely did not change them. I didn't get a chance to eat at Chop Suey Cafe & Lounge, but I did click off a few shots of the interior. Kudos to the new owners.

Chris & Pitts Restaurant, 11350 E. Washington Blvd., Whittier, CA (562) 699-9069

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Chris & Pitts Restaurant is a venerable old barbeque joint in Whittier with a mildly old feel to the interior. The Chris & Pitts chain itself dates from 1940 when Chris Pelonis opened the first one in Lynwood. I think this is the second oldest surviving location and the oldest is in Bellflower. To the best of my knowledge, some of the older Chris & Pitts have disappeared but there are plenty left. I thought the food here was pretty good and reasonable prices. Friendly staff and clientele (it's not the kind of place where you find vegans, dieters and organic cuisine!). A big plus here is that there is another Time Machine in the same parking lot - the highly recommended (at least during the day) Embers Lounge (see the bar page).

A quick and productive tour of Whittier, Pico Rivera and the San Gabriel Valley would include Chris & Pitts, the Embers Lounge, Clearman's Steak and Stein, Clearman's North Woods, Goody's Coffee Shop, the Tamarack Inn, Dal Rae's Restaurant, Petrillo's Italian Restaurant and Bahooka's Restaurant.

Cicada Restaurant - 617 S. Olive St., Los Angeles (downtown) 213-488-9488 Dinner 5:30pm - 9:00pm, closed for Lunch and on Sunday

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The restaurant as a business is not old, but its locale is a former men's store with an incredible art deco interior resembling an old ocean liner. The Cicada Restaurant is full of priceless Lalique art deco glass. If you can't afford the restaurant (highly rated and not cheap) you should get a drink in their second floor lounge. One unfortunate thing is that the restaurant is so popular for shooting movies that the film crews are damaging parts of the interior. This is where the scene of Julia Roberts having trouble eating snails was filmed in "Pretty Woman". The restaurant is located in the James Oviatt Building, where James Oviatt had his upscale men's furnishings store. Oviatt started out in business in 1912. The penthouse of the Oviatt Building is perfectly preserved and may be the best art deco interior anywhere in the world.

The Cicada Restaurant is near Clifton's Cafeteria, the Original Pantry Cafe, Cole's PE Buffet Restaurant, the Yorkshire Grill restaurant, Casey's bar and restaurant and Philippe the Original French Dipped Sandwiches restaurant.

City Hall Coffee Shop, 2327 Honolulu Ave. Montrose, CA 91020 248-4905

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Neat art deco bowling alley exterior in Montrose.

The City Hall Coffee Shop is a fun little traditional coffee shop I discovered on my first visit recently to Montrose. A word or two about Montrose. I had never heard of it, but set out to find the "Barru" bar on the recommendation of a reader (which looks interesting but was closed). Upon arriving at Montrose it seemed like perhaps I had entered a portal to paradise. This city looked so perfect, it was hard to believe it was real. A fantastic main street with this coffee shop, an art deco bowling alley, several old classic bars and a local population sort out of an idealized vision of America. I began to question my life and the unfairness of not having grown up in Montrose. Oh well.... Someone will have to explain to me some day why life is so random in how the good and the bad is doled out to each person.

Clifton’s Brookdale Cafeteria, 648 So. Broadway, Los Angeles (downtown), 213 627 1673, daily 6:30am to 7pm, since 1935.

The first floor: T T T T T

Gone but not forgotten, Clifton's Silver Spoon.

Clifford Clinton, a relative of New York Governor DeWitt Clinton, died in 1969 at age 69. A native of Berkeley, California, both of his parents were captains in the Salvation Army. A crusader against not only hunger, but city corruption, at one point his home was bombed, because his group "Citizens Independent Vice Investigating Committee" was getting a little too close to exposing high level corrupt leaders. Clifford Clinton was truly one of the great heroes of Los Angeles.

Beautiful Terrazzo in front of Clifton's Cafeteria

I love Clifton's Brookdale Cafeteria. One of the true iconic restaurants of Los Angeles. Extremely historic. They didn't steal any recipes from Perino's, but I've always loved the comfort food here. The interior of Clifton's is exceptionally well preserved and quirky. I find the waterfall relaxing. Check out the terrazzo in front which is a time capsule of Los Angeles history. The movie "Fight Club" was filmed at Clifton's Cafeteria. You can also see it in the 1950's version of D.O.A.

Many have forgotten about the first great cafeteria chain in Los Angeles started by the Boos Brothers (no - they were not from Saturday Night Live). The Boos Brothers, Horace, Cyrus, Henry, and John opened their first cafeteria in 1905. There were six Boos Brother's cafeterias in the 1920's - some locals were taken over by Clifton's.

Clifton’s Cafeteria is credited with saving the lives of many down and out people during the depression with its "pay what you wish" policy. Founded by Clifford E. Clinton, the Brookdale branch was once the national headquarters for "Meals for Millions Foundation" a nonprofit corporation to prevent starvation (apparently in the US in the 1930s but I believe continues to this day). They also developed a special 5 cent meal served to 500 patrons a day "with the nutritional equivalent of beef, green peas, milk and potatoes". It was called "multi-purpose food". The meal checks used to say "Regardless of the amount on this check our cashier will cheerfully accept whatever you wish to pay - or you dine free". Can you imagine a restaurant today surviving with that policy? It seems our culture used to have more integrity. Other branches, including a tropical themed one called Clifton's "Pacific Seas" at 618 So. Olive and a comparatively more elegant one called the "Silver Spoon" are long gone (although a sign for the Silver Spoon still exists at the location). The Seven Seas had primitive huts inside with rain and thunder effects and waterfalls on the outside exterior. There was also a meditation room and even a statute of Jesus.

Today, if you sit by yourself at the tables on the main floor of the Brookdale Cafeteria, you're soon likely to have company and possibly a lively conversation about the good old days (speaking Spanish helps). They just don't make places like this anymore. It's surprising that more of the "office" crowd to the west doesn't take advantage of this quick place to eat lunch.

If you want to see several places in one trip, get a snack here, and continue snacking at nearby Coles Pacific Electric Buffet (temporarily closed for remodeling), the Original Pantry Cafe, Yorkshire Grill (remodeled), and stop for a drink at Hank's bar.

Please say a prayer or do a moment of meditation for Jean Clinton Roeschlaub, a wonderful woman who was recently taken from us.

Cole’s PE Buffet, 118 E. 6th St. Los Angeles (downtown) 213 622-4090, since 1908. Mon-Fri 9am to 7pm, Sat. 9am-5pm

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The Pacific Electric Building where Cole's is located.

Cole's PE Buffet ia arguably the oldest continuously operating bar (well ignoring the current remodel) and restaurant in the same location in Los Angeles (Philippe's had to move in the 1950s to make room for the Hollywood Freeway). This place battles with Philippe’s for the claim of inventing the French Dipped Sandwich (these sandwiches are fantastic in both restaurants). I have conscientious objector status in this war. Located in the Pacific Electric Railway building that once ran all the great trolley cars (which by the way can still be seen and ridden in in a unique museum in Perris, California). I thought the food was very good here, but it is in a part of town not for the meek of heart (although for better or worse - rapidly gentrifying). The site of the "Night Owl" from LA Confidential is across the street (it was J J's Sandwich Shop, 119 E. 6th St. at Main - although there appears to be nothing left of the movie set). You would never guess by looking at it, but the Pacific Electric Building was once the tallest building West of the Mississippi. This old place strangely was playing Bossa Nova music last time I was in (my favorite!). The bar area might not be for the weak at heart or the Pacific Palisades crowd, but it's probably the oldest "feel" in all of Los Angeles.

UPDATE - I recently spoke to one of the owners and he said given the loft invasion in the area, there might be a remodel here (Nooooooo!!!!). I really worry about whether this place will remain in it's wonderful original shape given the loft craze going on in the area.

UPDATE II - OK folks, if you are of the religious persuasion, it's time to do a little praying. Cole's has changed owners, will be closed for a while for "renovations". The new owner's are promising to not change the "architecture" (which hopefully includes the Interior design). The only part of Cole's that really concerns me is the bar area and the Red Booths in the bar area. Sure it could use some small bit of cleaning and repairs, but a remodel would be a disaster to one of the most historic interiors in Los Angeles. Please don't remodel it!! Don't refinish the old woods, the tiled floor, the bar chairs, etc. and turn it "upscale". Thanks to Rob F. for the news tip.

UPDATE III: I'm getting reports from David P. that Cole's has been gutted. I suppose they could still put the original bar counter and red booths back in, but I've never seen any place recover its personality and feel after being gutted. It's amazing that this could be done to the oldest and one of the most historic bars and restaurants in Los Angeles without a peep from the public. I for one am giving up. Just about no one cares anymore.

Not far from Clifton's Cafeteria, the Original Pantry Cafe, Hank's bar, the Yorkshire Grill restaurant, and Philippe's restaurant - their arch rival.

Colombo's Italian Steak House, 1833 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles 323 254 9138 since 1954

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Colombo's Italian Steak House is a classic old place in Eagle Rock. Very well preserved and a friendly staff. All around a pretty cool place. The mildly bawdy paintings inside may not make it a good place for kids depending on your sensitivities.

Eagle Rock has a nice collection of old places including the Casa Bianca Italian Restaurant, the Chalet bar, the Bucket Restaurant and the Capri Restaurant. And it's not far from Pasadena.

Colonial Kitchen, 1110 Huntington Drive, San Marino, 626 289-2449

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Bill Covington and his mother were long time owners of the Colonial Kitchen Coffee Shop. They unsuccessfully tried to lift the ban on alcohol in San Marino. I know little else about this place other than it looks fairly old, has nice neon signs and has good food. The Colonial Kitchen seems like the best restaurant going in San Marino. San Marino reminds me of La Jolla, California. It looks so clean! While we are on the subject - the La Jolla cove may be one of the most beautiful places in the world. Don't miss it if you visit San Diego, California.

Covina Tasty, 1063 N. Citrus Ave. Covina, CA 626-332-8816, Open daily 11am-11pm. since 1961

One of the many old sandwich/Ice Cream stands that predominated the commercial landscape before McDonald's and the like took over. There are a fairly large number of these places that have survived in the Los Angeles area (especially East Los Angeles). They almost always have good nostalgic food and sundaes. Covina Tasty is no exception. A plus here is their veggie burgers. Someone out there should do a website about pre-McDonald's LA metro hamburger stands that still survive (beyond the scope of this site).

Covina Tasty is not far from the Covina Bowl and as long as you are East of Los Angeles, check out Bahooka's Restaurant, Clearman's North Woods Restaurant, Clearman's Steak 'n Stein restaurant, the Tamarack Inn Bar and Restaurant and Dal Rae's Restaurant.

Crab Cooker Restaurant, 2200 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663 949 673-0100

T T T since 1951

The Crab Cooker Restaurant has a quirky old interior. Excellent seafood. A small seafood market inside. A real Newport Beach institution. They have a moderate fee parking lot, but on a summer day, if you want to park at a meter - be prepared for battle!

The Crab Cooker Restaurant is near the old site of the Arches Restaurant. Not too far from the Five Crowns Restaurant and La Cave Restaurant.

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