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Many iconic LA restaurants, coffee shops and bars have been lost to the fires. Here's how to help them
Chris Larson surveys the ruins of the Rancho Bar.
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Zoe Meyers
/
AFP via Getty Images
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The destruction caused by the Eaton and Palisades fires will undoubtedly be felt for a long time, and we're still learning more about the homes and businesses that have been destroyed.
Several of the businesses are restaurants and bars, often long-term anchors of their communities. In the immediate aftermath, many former customers have taken to social media to express their sadness and share their memories.
We’ve compiled a list of affected businesses, customers' reactions, and how you can help.
If other places you know of are not included here, please email me (gchabran@scpr.org) and let me know their significance to you.
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Altadena
Side Pie
The pizza joint on Altadena Drive began in a side yard during the pandemic, then moved to its brick and mortar location. It was known for its Grateful Dead inspired pies and fun neighborhood vibes.
Reactions on social media:
"You brought community to beautiful Altadena ❤️ we will rise up."
- Karineceyhan
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“I saw your story on Instagram from Australia, and my thoughts are with you during this incredibly difficult time. Small businesses are the backbone of every community, and it’s clear how much you mean to yours.” - Leisah Beutner
Owner Kevin Hockin wrote online:
“Our whole neighborhood burned to the ground today. This is our community hub and pizza/coffee sanctuary. We have customers that have a standing order every week, same day, same time, for years. Not kidding…. I bet I know 90% of our regulars' dogs' names...we are that place.”
How to help:
Donate to their GoFundme page
Cafe De Leche
Cafe De Leche began in 2008 in Highland Park, later expanding to the neighboring Altadena area. It was known for its dog and kid-friendly patio, as well as a handy pit stop before hitting the hiking trails.
Reactions on social media:
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“Words can’t begin to express how saddened I am. CDL Altadena is what shaped me as a leader, a manager, a roaster, and more importantly as a human being. You will come back better and stronger.” - Sarahmakescoffee
“I lost my house too. And when it’s rebuilt I am coming to get my favorite coffee. Love everyone in Altadena.” - Rbexpaige
Owners Anya and Matthew Schodorf wrote online:
"It’s been an honor Altadena❤️ This isn’t goodbye - it’s see you later. We will rebuild not only as a business, but a community."
How to help:
Donate to support the staff on their GoFundme page
Rancho Bar
The Rancho Bar on North Lake Avenue was popular for its Bloody Mary cocktails and cozy atmosphere. It was also a gathering place for many from the local community.
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Reactions on social media:
“My heart... 😢😢😢😢... God bless the Rancho.. the best BAR in LA County." - Freedom8teens
“The Rancho was a second home to so many of us. Thank you for that. I’m sure this community would support a Rancho Rebuild, I sure know I would !!! 💕" - Riotandahalf
"Your community loves y’all. Thank you for all the years. I have faith we can rebuild and lots will help." - Mimicocol
How to help:
Donate to their GoFundme page
Fox’s Restaurant
Given its long existence, this one particularly hurts. Fox's has been open since 1955 and was sold in 2018 to Monique King and Paul Rosenbluh, owners of Cindy's, a nearby coffee shop and diner in Eagle Rock. It was known for classics, such as two eggs, two pancakes, two bacon breakfast combos and chicken fried smoked brisket plates.
Reactions on social media:
“I watched the news as Lake burned, I just cried, but held hope.….. I appreciate that special space you created.”
- justanotherj3n
“I CAN’T! I remember sitting there with the original owners and you as you were getting ready to seal the deal. I’m SO BEYOND sorry for you and the whole Altadena community. This is beyond devastating.” - Staymann
“Devastating! My Grandma lived on Allen Avenue in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. She used to take us to Fox’s for fried chicken. We loved it. This is heartbreaking."
- Renee_beachlife
The owners' daughter wrote online:
"The Eaton Canyon Wildfire has devastated the Altadena community, and unfortunately, Fox’s Restaurant has not survived. We are heartbroken by the destruction that’s occurred over the past 48 hours in our community."
How to help:
Donate to their GoFundme page
Minik Market
The small neighborhood market, which only opened in October of last year, but attracted a loyal following, offered farm fresh produce, sandwiches, and other niche pantry items.
Reactions on social media:
“Was just sitting outside on the stools a few days ago, drinking a topo Chico. Man how things change in 24 hours. 💔 our home is gone too.” - Callumhanlon_kinda
“Crying. I am so sorry Jon and Gamze. Working here and knowing you and our beautiful community has been an absolute joy. You’ve brought such light to sweet Altadena. 😢 sad sad sad day" - Indigo_violet
Owner Jon Johnson wrote online:
“As many of you know, we lost Minik Market in the fires. Minik Market wasn’t just a shop; it was a gathering place for our community — a space where neighbors became friends and where everyone felt welcome. Losing it has been devastating.”
How to help:
Donate to their Gofundme page.
The Little Red Hen Coffee Shop
The Black family-owned cafe restaurant had been serving the community for over 50 years. It was known for its soul food dishes, such as shrimp and grits.
Reactions on social media:
"So sorry to hear this! 🙏🏾 so many fond memories, especially of the patriarch chef of your family." - kamilahvmoore
"We lived on W Mendocino. We became regulars. We love you guys. We are ‘the sisters. Here for you …" - lesleyspageaboutnothing
"Wonderful diner. An Altadena icon! I hope you'll rebuild!" - jeffryder626
Annisa Shay, whose family owns The Little Red Hen Coffee Shop, said online:
"Our family business, The Little Red Hen Coffee Shop on Fair Oaks, has been a staple in the community since 1955.
We are completely lost for words to see what my grandmother built, my uncle Lonzia, and my mom created, burn down to flames. If you can find it in your heart to help my family’s business to rebuild, we appreciate you so much. Thank you for your support."
How to help:
Donate to their GoFundMe page
Pizza of Venice
The self-described "chef-driven hyperlocal pizza joint" first started as a farmer's market booth. It's fed the Altadena community for over a decade with its creative pizzas and unique specials.
Reactions on social media:
"So sad to hear. The community is here for you however we can. We will rebuild ❤️" - madelinetopet
"So sorry! You were my favorite place when I lived in Altadena. I hope you will rebuild. I'll do all I can to support you. 😢" - jeffryder626
"I'm so sorry! 😢 I have so many wonderful memories of going to POV! Especially your fungi pizza! I am thinking about you guys and hope you can rebuild." -madchengeist
Owners Sean St. John and Jamie Woolnder wrote online:
"We ask everyone to be kind, patient and understanding. Take care of one another, stay safe, and support those who need it most. Together we will rise from this tragedy."
Amara Kitchen
The casual cafe space, with its sister location in neighboring Highland Park, offered "nourishing, health food, made with love and hope."
Reactions on social media:
"Our hearts break for you. We lost our home on Olive. We were regulars of yours and absolutely loved going there." - laurel.bayly.lee
"We love you Amara and Paola! The most generous business owner and purveyor of warm, healing, delicious food. We will be frequenting HP location even more than usual now." - janeonhlp
"Thank you to the whole Amara Team and to Paola for bringing your light and vision to the local food community. I will miss my sweet little friday cruises from my place near Allen to pick up delicious breakfast burritos and those cookies 💔 but you all are supported and will build back up fast i’m sure. We are here for you !" - valduve
Owner Paola Guasp said online:
"While we are deeply grateful that our staff is safe, many of us have been displaced and evacuated from our homes. Never in a million years did we imagine this could happen to our team or community. We are acutely aware of how many others in Los Angeles have been affected by this tragedy and are working with trusted partners to find ways to support ourselves and those around us during this challenging time."
How to help:
Donate to their GoFundme page.
Burgers for Life
Burgers For Life is a small pop-up regularly found at Benny Boy Brewing and in other parts of Northeast L.A. serving their duck fat smash burgers. It participated in last year's LAist Tournament of Cheeseburgers, where fans voted them to the Flavorful 4.
Reactions on social media:
"Sending you lots of love. Please count me in for any support. We’re community. :brown_heart:" - lunalermanda
"I'm so so sorry. Altadena is one of the most tight knit and strong communities that I've ever seen. We'll get through this together. " - snakeywoman
How to help:
Donate to Ramon's GoFundMe page
Malibu
The Reel Inn
One of the more well-known seafood shacks along PCH charmed locals and tourists alike for its casual approach, affordable menu, and outdoor seating, making for the perfect family hang or day drinking session.
Reel Inn was a popular seafood spot in Malibu
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Courtesy Reel Inn
)
Comments on social media:
“I’m the lady with the paper always ordering the same thing on a random weekday every week sitting in the back. You have been my happy place for close to 15 years.” - stefaniekeenan
“U guys literally shaped my time here in Los Angeles. I’m gonna miss u.” - Erc.3p
“Was there Friday (so thankful! ) and I commented to the kitchen staff how unbelievably hard the busboy works! How he’s out of a job as are all of you and we lost a place that means so much our family !” - Gia_moody
The owners Teddy and Andy Leonard said online:
"We are so grateful for the 36 years we've been part of the community. We are heartbroken and unsure what will be left. Hopefully the state parks will let us rebuild when the dust settles."
How to help:
Donate to their Gofundme page
Cholada Thai Cuisine
The locally beloved Thai restaurant is owned by Sawai Theprian and her husband Nikorn Sriwichailumpan, who purchased the restaurant in 2000 after serving as head chef. Customers loved such dishes as spicy glass noodles, and seafood bonanza dishes. The couple also owns another location in Long Beach.
Comments on social media:
“I’m in Northern California and would make the 5 hour trip randomly over the years just to have your amazing Thai food. Many memories made on that back patio.” ❤️ - Wrx_ash
“This breaks my heart. Your restaurant & your family has been such a staple throughout my lifetime. So many memories made here and there were so many more to come 😔💔” - Haleycamille
”This was by far my favorite Thai spot in LA. I’m devastated along with the rest of your adoring patrons. Prayers to all of your family and friends. Please let us know if you will rebuild the Malibu location and we will be there!” - _shesme_iamher_
Owner Sawai Theprian said online:
"Cholada has been lost after serving since 1999. We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has tagged us and shown their support during this difficult time. Your kindness and solidarity mean the world to us."
How to help:
Donate to their Gofund me page
Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio
The "tasting room with a view" as it described itself was much-loved by wine lovers, the only wine bar on the PCH. A place to sip the afternoon away chilling with chilled wine.
Comments on social media:
"My friends and I have created so many incredible memories with you, and celebrated many a milestone there….one of our absolute favorite places."
- Kberlyo
“My friends and I have been sharing photos and videos of our visit there a few years back. We had a blast. What a magical place. So sorry what happened to you 💔.” - Pho_stef
The owners said online:
"We're so grateful for all of the memories we've shared at that location, and although we don't know what the future holds. We will stay strong and keep everyone informed of our next moves."
Moonshadows
A landmark beach restaurant, known for its romantic ocean views, where folks could watch the waves crash against rocks while eating and drinking.
Moonshadows
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Courtesy Moonshadows
)
Comments on social media:
“After i quit my job i drove myself out the Moonshadows to celebrate. I hold so many memories here. I am so sorry to anyone else hurt by the news of Moonshadows. Hoping to help when you guys are ready for it. 😢💔” - Valeriacardonaa
“I am so heartsick! I’ve gone to Moonshadows for my anniversary for the last 10 years. It’s our go to spot. We were supposed to go on Saturday. I’m so so sorry to everyone. My heart is broken. 💔” - Fireflyfree518
”My husband asked me to be his gf & proposed to me here, this is sooooo heartbreaking for us…💔 completely devastating our favorite restaurant.” - Stephamuzegar
The owners said online:
"For nearly four decades, the waves crashing against our patio provided the soundtrack to countless celebrations, shared laughter, and unforgettable moments. Now, that luminous chapter has come to an unthinkable end, leaving us heartbroken. Our employees, the lifeblood of Moonshadows, are grappling with the loss of not just their workplace but the cherished connection with customers they came to know as family."
How you can help:
Donate to their GoFund Me page
Do you have a question about the wildfires or fire recovery?
Check out LAist.com/FireFAQs to see if your question has already been answered. If not, submit your questions here, and we’ll do our best to get you an answer.
_
Corrected January 10, 2025 at 1:20 PM PST
An earlier version stated that Gladstone's had burnt down. Fortunately it has survived, with damage.
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