LOS ANGELES — Several historic restaurants in Los Angeles have faced closure threats in 2026 as long-running establishments confront financial pressures, ownership changes and redevelopment plans, according to local restaurant operators and media reports. The developments have affected longtime venues including Cole’s French Dip in downtown Los Angeles, Taix in Echo Park and Clifton’s in the city’s historic core.
Cole’s French Dip, one of Los Angeles’ oldest restaurants, closed in March after more than a century of operation, its owners said. The restaurant’s operator, Pouring with Heart, had previously delayed closure plans while seeking options for the business. Owner Cedd Moses said the company could not continue operating under the financial conditions facing the restaurant. “We just can’t keep the doors open and keep hemorrhaging money,” Moses said, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Taix, a French restaurant with nearly a century of history in Los Angeles, also announced plans to close its Echo Park location in 2026 as the property moved toward redevelopment, according to reports. The restaurant’s owners said they planned a future version of Taix as part of a new development project, although details of the reopening timeline remained unclear.
Clifton’s, the landmark downtown restaurant and event venue known for its historic interior, also faced a permanent closure after its owner said reopening the business was no longer feasible. Owner Andrew Meieran told the Los Angeles Times that operating in the downtown historic core had become increasingly difficult and that the venue would not reopen.
The closures and threats come as several longtime Los Angeles dining institutions have reported challenges linked to changing business conditions. Restaurant operators have cited issues including operating costs, changing customer patterns and difficulties maintaining large historic properties. The reasons behind individual closures vary, and details remain unclear for some establishments considering their next steps.
Local officials and business groups have continued efforts to support commercial areas and historic districts, but no single citywide explanation has been given for the recent restaurant closures. The affected businesses have involved different ownership structures and circumstances, including lease issues, redevelopment plans and financial decisions by operators.
As of June 2026, Cole’s had closed, Taix had announced plans connected to a future location, and Clifton’s remained closed after its operator ended efforts to reopen the venue, according to reports.
