Downtown Los Angeles bid farewell to a beloved institution as the Original Pantry Cafe closed its doors on Sunday after nearly a century of service. Known for its round-the-clock operation and hearty diner fare, the cafe had been a go-to spot for night owls and early risers since 1924.
The closure, prompted by a union contract dispute, drew a crowd of loyal patrons eager to savor one last meal at the iconic diner located on the corner of 9th and South Figueroa streets. Despite its modest 3.7 rating on Yelp, the cafe’s legacy was built on its commitment to serving up comforting classics like hot coffee, burgers, and breakfast platters.
The emotional shuttering of the establishment saw its remaining 25 workers receive their final paychecks in manila envelopes, a symbolic end to their years of service. Supported by the Unite Here Local 11 labor union, the employees refused to leave, expressing their desire for management to reconsider the decision.
The cafe had weathered various challenges over the years, including evading a freeway project in the 1950s and changing ownership in the past. However, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with its restrictions and reduced hours, proved to be a significant blow. Despite receiving federal loans to preserve jobs, the cafe struggled to maintain its staff, leading to the closure.
Ownership of the diner passed to the trust of former Mayor Richard Riordan, who had acquired the restaurant in the 1980s. Efforts to sell the asset for philanthropic purposes led to negotiations with the union, aiming to protect the existing contract for employees. When no agreement was reached, the union lodged a grievance with the National Labor Relations Board.
As the final moments unfolded, a representative of the trust attempted to distribute the last paychecks to employees, who declined to accept them. Eventually, law enforcement was called to ensure the workers vacated the premises peacefully, with one union representative receiving a citation in the process.
Looking ahead, the future of the Original Pantry Cafe remains uncertain, with the union planning to continue advocating for the rights of the workers. As the community reflects on the end of an era, the cafe’s closure serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by longstanding establishments in a changing landscape.