This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
It was a big moment today for the face of a famous restaurant in Downtown Los Angeles. At a special unveiling ceremony, the historic original facade of Clifton's Brookdale Cafeteria was revealed for the first time since the 1950s.
Today's uncovering represents a significant step forward for the ongoing restoration and modernization of the Cafeteria, which is under new ownership and will see not only a menu revamp, but find its interior space transformed for modern diners and drinkers. The facade, however, is not yet refurbished, as those looking forward to the big reveal were perhaps hoping--there's much work to be done!
Last summer, new owner Andrew Meieran announced temporary weekly closures to accommodate some of the renovations. The cafeteria closed completely in September for an anticipated six-month stretch.
Meieran, who owns DTLA's swanky The Edison, has plans to turn Clifton's into a round-the-clock eatery with an updated menu, but maintaining the cafeteria-style service. The top floors, which are currently underutilized, will become a nightlife destination with a neighborhood lounge and sit-down restaurant service.
The full scope of the revamp will not likely be complete until later this year.
The restoration is part of the Bringing Back Broadway initiative, which is seeing to the revival of vital recreation and work spaces in the heart of historic Downtown.
