Closings

Junior’s Deli Closing on December 31

Another legend lost
Another legend lost Photo: Mark Peacock/Flickr

Junior’s, Westwood’s 53-year-old destination deli for cheesecake and Dr. Dre sightings, is closing, with owners citing a dispute with their landlords (surely one of the most revisited trends in L.A. restaurants this year). The final day for this classic will be December 31 at 5:00 P.M., with second generation co-owner John Saul telling CBS, “With these [landlords] we’ve always negotiated and we’ve always, always come to an agreement. This time, for some reason, he basically said they don’t want us here…It’s terrible; this isn’t how you start a new year.”

Legions of regulars will agree with that statement no doubt, though there is some hope that Junior’s could open again in a new location, no matter that the space and tradition are a major part of the charm. Cue the historic landmark activists! Where’s Frodo when we really need him?

Sadly, Saul also tells The L.A. Times, “I’m at a loss. It’s like I’m grieving a death.” Who wouldn’t be struck by the loss of this Westside institution? At least the paper has an ace at writing restaurant epitaphs. That is, as long as Mel Brooks doesn’t beat him to the punch.

Westside’s Junior’s Deli to close over rent dispute [LAT]
Junior’s Restaurant To Close Dec. 31 Over Rent Dispute [CBS]

Junior’s Deli Closing on December 31