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Gone Too Soon: A Piece of DTLA History, The Original Pantry, Closes After 100 Years
It seems like only yesterday we stood in line for six hours stretched around the block outside The Original Pantry.
It felt just like yesterday, but instead of just waiting with locked knees outside the doors for the host to call the next guest, DT Weekly went to take what may very well have be our last bite, as news spread that The Original Pantry, a stalwart of downtown Los Angeles, was shuttering its doors?
Say it isn’t so.
For 100 years, The Original Pantry wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a living, breathing testament to the city’s resilience. Opened around the clock, it was a haven of comfort, community, and tourism alike. Within its no-nonsense atmosphere, generous portions of unwavering commitment made the Pantry a haven for late-night workers, weary travelers, celebrities, politicians, and thousands of people who didn’t mind waiting in line for hours for a chance to eat. The clatter of plates, the sizzle of bacon, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee formed a symphony unique to its walls, and almost everyone in LA has a story.
How did we get to this?
In the years before its closing, The Original Pantry was owned by former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan, yet following his death in 2023, the restaurant’s ownership passed to his estate.
The decision to close the Pantry was made by the estate, with a focus on prioritizing the charitable mission of the Riordan Foundation and eventually selling the property.
This shift in priorities ultimately led to the end of the Pantry’s century-long run.
With news of the sale, a local union, Unite Here UNION Local 11 that represented the long-time employees actively advocated for their members. Their demands centered on ensuring that employees would retain their positions under any new ownership, that their union contract would be honored, and that union representation would continue with whatever new owners came about. A decision the estate said could hamper their abilities to find a potential buyer.
Despite evidence The Pantry supported its workers, seen here from the 100th-year celebratory post, stating,
“Happy 100th anniversary to us. This day would not have been possible without Mayor Richard Reardon and the love he had for his restaurant and all the hard work of our employees, as well as all the support from our loyal customers. Thank you to everyone who came to celebrate with us, and cheers to 100 years.”
When news of the restaurant’s pushback hit the internet, fans of the restaurant began expressing their opinions.
Soon nostalgic recollections of latenight pancakes, hearty steaks, and signature coleslaw would be served with a side of salt as a wave of support for the workers emerged, stating Riordan estate’s handling of the closure was unfair.
Amidst the negativity commentary and daily protest outside its doors, the estate doubled down, and instead of participating in ongoing disputes, cancel culture, and picket lines that could diminish its brand’s favor forever, it decided it would close.
The changing landscape of downtown Los Angeles undoubtedly also played a role in the decision to sell. Shifting demographics, the pandemic, and the increasing competition from trendy new eateries have put immense pressure on the long-standing business.
For those who spent countless hours in and outside its walls, the closure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. The Pantry’s legacy, however, will live on in the stories and memories shared by the countless patrons who found solace within its comforting embrace. Now, we find ourselves in line once again, this time for a buyer knowing that regardless of what the future holds, on the corner of 9th and Olympic, one thing is certain: good things come to those who wait.
Photos courtesy of The Original Pantry Cafe
Whispers of Ancient Traditions and Modern Vibrancy at Little Tokyo Street Fair
Beneath traditional Japanese lanterns and the shade of trees, the Little Tokyo Street Fair unfolds.
This quarterly event transforms the passageway that marks the entrance just outside Weller Court and is bordered by the Ellison S. Onizuka monument at 2nd and San Pedro Streets.
Discovering everything from handcrafted ceramics and unique souvenirs to delicious Japanese cuisine, Little Tokyo Street Fair offers a diverse tapestry of traditional and contemporary community offerings.
Each kiosk at the fair keeps a steady crowd of rotating buyers, visible from the street, making the street fair as much an exploration of Little Tokyo as a heartfelt expression of local talent.
Bozu Luck is Good for the City
Among the assortment of discoveries, one captivating highlight is the potted plant collection by Bozu, a family-run business specializing in curating handcrafted pottery with growingJapanese plant assortments.
Over the years, Bozu plants have become a DTLA-designated good luck charm due mostly to the rare chance to discover a Bozu plant in downtown, exclusively at Boxx Coffee in the Arts District and during the fair.
Certain plants offered by Bozu, like the revered bonsai, are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity, making any city dwelling complete.
Each Bozu design is unique, thoughtfully selected as it resonates with its new caretaker.
Other notable vendors include Bailey Kikuchi and Kenneth Higashi, the coowners of Kiosk Boys, who showcase their one-of-a-kind custom clothing line, blending urban fashion with art and musical influences.
Free tastings, art displays, jewelry, psychic readings, and other artisan crafts further enrich the fair’s offerings. Welcoming the soft winds of spring amongst friends and neighbors, the Little Tokyo Street Fair takes place March 29th from 12pm to 5pm at Welles Court, 123 Ellison S. Onizuka Drive.
Kiosk Boys one of a kind designs
10 Great Places for Late Night Eats
For many people, long after the clubs, bars, and sports arenas let out, Downtown LA becomes a ghost town. But even ghosts get hungry, and now that our beloved Original Pantry Café is out of commission, we thought we’d take the time to let people know where they can grab a bite in the wee hours of the morning.
Through the Fire at Danny’s Tacos
Closing at 2am on week nights and 3am on the weekend, all anyone needs to know about Danny’s Tacos is that they’re open on at least four separate corners along 7th Street in Downtown Los Angeles when and where we need them the most; in the latenight hours of the city.
Although they offer almost every taco variety known to man, they set themselves apart with handmade tortillas, and 100 percent late-night community approval rating.
DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Danny’s Tacos now delivers!
Viewers and Chewers at
Anwar’s
Kitchen
Anwar Jibawi, the Chicago-born Palestinian-American, is a comedic force known for his hilarious online skits filmed right here in Downtown Los Angeles. When he’s not busy trying to charm women six-feet taller than him or attempting to out-boot a ranchero, Anwar’s bringing real-world flavor to Anwar’s Kitchen in the Fashion District. The menu boasts 100% Halal-certified dishes, from flavorful shawarma and kabobs to fluffy pita and signature sauces, all made from scratch using fresh, local ingredients and imported spices.
DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Anwar’s Kitchen is open until 4 AM, long after Amal and her flying slipper have called it a night.
Historic
Tastes of LA Cafe
Too smashed? Never! LA Cafe’s Spicy Double Smash Burger is like an emergency reset button and the tastiest haze ever experienced.
Is that the sun coming up? Crispy Belgium Waffles with strawberries, whipped cream, and powdered sugar are like a ray of sunshine. Doesn’t matter if it’s 3 a.m. or 3 p.m.; from dusk til’ dawn, LA Cafe is slinging deliciousness.
DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Their Oreo Cookie Milkshakes are sure to keep the night rolling.
From Flame to Fame at Tacos Mexico
Don’t hate the player, hate the game. Open 24/7, Tacos Mexico caters to the stars on Broadway from the north and south; it’s the perfect spot to keep the latenight DTLA party theatrics going.
Carne asada, carnitas, al pastor, and pollo—all seasoned by hand, marinated, and cooked on the spot—Tacos Mexico never fails to soak up the after-hours fun.
DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Tacos aren’t the only late-night treasures fresh from the grill. Taco Mexico throws down burritos, sopes, gorditas, tortas, and nachos, packed and stacked with choice of meats, rice, and frijoles.
DANNY'S TACOS HISTORIC COR LA CAFE HISTORIC CORE ANWAR'S KITCHEN FASHION DISTRICT TACOS MEXICAN ON BROADWAY
DTLA Women to Watch: Ronda Jackson Change Agent for Success
“We sell paint. We create jobs. We build community.”
Two
things are certain when an extraordinary woman like Ronda Jackson comes to town: first, as a supplier of Benjamin Moore paint through her Studio D Contract Finishes, in the Old Bank District she’ll become one of the best options for any project, and second...
Through her entrepreneurial leadership programs, she’ll become one of the best instrumental designers of success for local entrepreneurs who may cross her path, blending her expertise and resources to create a custom color palette especially for their success.
Why? Because Ronda Jackson supplies Benjamin Moore paint, one of the country’s most trusted brands dating back to 1883. And although you can purchase Benjamin Moore products at select hardware retailers, Ronda offers a distinct advantage.
Ready for Home Beautification or Office Renovation?
As a UCLA graduate with a degree in Interior and Environmental Design, Ronda brings a unique level of expertise to every client. From famous galleries in the Arts District to the high-rise offices and luxury lofts, Studio D Contract Finishes offers personalized interior design consultations, helping to bring out the right color match for foundational elements of artistic expression, architectural elegance, and personal spaces throughout the city.
After 16 years of proudly serving the Boyle Heights community, Studio D Contract Finishes has transitioned to Downtown Los Angeles, establishing itself at Shops on Main in the Old Bank District. This strategic move has placed Ronda at the epicenter of change and revitalization. Not just part of the neighborhood’s growth; she’s becoming a catalyst for it, actively participating in community revitalization by being a fair chance employer.
Ronda’s Studio D offers transitional employment and skill-building opportunities through programs like Paint on Purpose, offering employment opportunities for veterans, foster youth, and justice-involved individuals while creating opportunities to reenter the workforce, gain a sense of purpose, and gain professional skills.
As a Small Business Commissioner for the City of Los Angeles, she directly impacts policy and fosters a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, understanding that a successful business needs more than just quality materials; it needs strategic guidance and unwavering support.
She’s also completed programs like the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, equipping her with a comprehensive toolkit to guide others.
As the author of “Stay the Course: Surviving the Nine Hellish Holes of Entrepreneurship,” she provides valuable insights into overcoming challenges and scaling for success. Her “Road to Recovery” podcast shares stories of resilience, offering inspiration and practical advice, actionable insights, and encouragement to fellow entrepreneurs facing their own challenges.
Ronda says her ethos has always been centered around adaptability and responsiveness, which she believes are the cornerstones of success, not just for her business but for her clients as well, and being prepared to meet the market’s everchanging needs.
More than just an entrepreneur. Ronda Jackson is a movement—a testament to perseverance. She’s not just a designer transforming spaces; she’s a change agent transforming lives. Continued
Ronda Jackson has been recognized as the Supplier of the Year by the Southern California Minority Supplier Development Council for four consecutive years, was named the Women’s Business Enterprise Council (WBEC) – West Star and Enterprising Woman of the Year in 2018, and was honored as the Woman Business Owner of the Year by NAWBOLA.
Photo courtesy Studio D Contract Finishes
RECLAIMING VITALITY WITH DR. BABRY OREN
Dr. Babry Oren is the visionary innovator behind Folium products... Seems Folium products are revolutionary new supplements, designed to support the body’s natural detoxification processes and combat the cumulative effects of urban living.
Confronting a constant barrage of pollutants, heavy metals, and stress—a “Molotov cocktail” of free radicals harmful to the body— Folium pX, with its scientifically backed formulation, offers a way to bolster our natural defenses and support our body’s detoxification processes. Folium products are about empowering individuals to combat the everyday stressors of modern life,” says Dr. Oren.
Where nature meets science
Dr. Oren’s journey began with a pivotal moment in 2005, during a visit to his native Georgia, where he discovered an all-natural supplement developed by scientists to mitigate radiation effects from the 1986 Chernobyl disaster.
Recognizing its potential, Dr. Oren, who holds two master’s degrees in economics, acquired the rights to the formula in 2008 and later introduced Folium pX to the global market.
This wasn’t just another supplement. The formulation of Folium pX is rooted in extensive research and development, aiming to provide a scientifically-backed super-antioxidant with key ingredients,
The city’s allure is undeniable, yet its hidden challenges demand a proactive approach to well-being.
known for promoting detox with natural ingredients.
The supplement’s ability to cleanse free radicals has garnered international recognition for Dr. Babry Oren.
In 2023, Dr. Oren received the Star of Excellence Award in Life Sciences for Humanity from the America-Eurasia Center for creating the Immuno and RelaX variety of the supplement.
Dr. Oren was named Honorary Causa of Medicine and Physiology from the National Academy of Sciences of Georgia in 2024.
As Dr. Babry Oren, he has been nominated for the Lasker Award, the US version of the Nobel Peace Prize in Physiology and Medicine, and his studies have been published for four consecutive years in the Journals of the National Academy of Sciences of Georgia.
A man on a mission.
Dr. Oren’s mission extends beyond selling a product; for him, it’s about providing the tools for individuals to actively support their well-being.
“Reclaiming vitality,” as Dr. Oren told the Los Angeles Business Journal (2024), “the benefit to the community is clear: supporting individual health through a natural supplement.”
Now making appearances across the holistic circuit, Dr. Oren has planned continuous interviews on radio and video podcast as well as upcoming planned events including Autism Health in San Diego, April 11th–12th and LAX Airport Health Freedom Expo, April 4th-6th, and others throughout the year, where he and his team will introduce Folium products and continue educating the masses about its potential benefits. @folium.px
pine parts, and grape seed extract,
Food, Wine and Reckoning: Takes Over the Count’s Den FEAST.
The tale of Beowulf has been recirculated for over one thousand years, the brutal victory of man over monster resonating with people across millennia.
In FEAST., which first premiered in Iowa City at the Riverside Theatre in 2019, the story takes the spotlight away from the slaying hero, Beowulf, and focuses on the mother of the deformed monster Grendel, who until his horrifying death terrorized the town.
In this immersive and visceral theater experience, brought to downtown Los Angeles by Leonix Movement Theatre in association with Immersive Art Collective, Grendel’s mother, played by Erin Schlabach, throws a dinner party to seek justice for her son’s murder, only to confront her own guilt and rage.
Oscillating between witty banter and pointed exploration, this heightened high fantasy crashes into the contemporary political landscape, asking the audience to collectively contemplate climate change, income inequality, and the rising forces of authoritarianism.
Grendel’s mother has observed humanity for centuries, and through her lens, the absurdities of human behavior are illuminated. Bewildered by humanity’s choices, her perspective is both curious, comical, and unrelenting. Embodying a middle-aged woman, she champions the value of women and mothers, challenging the audience to look inward while also...
Staying connected to the power and hope found in community.
“One of the many interesting aspects about FEAST. for me has been the exploration of how we view the idea of heroism,” says Director Laura Covelli. “The archetype of a ‘hero’ throughout history has distinguishing qualities: they are noble, courageous, selfless, and desire to help others. But this all depends on who is telling the story. Beowulf is described with these characteristics, but if we reimagine the story, as the playwright asks of us, through the lens of imperialism and the destruction of life and natural resources in the name of acquisition, the heroes and villains in this epic story shift.
While Grendel, as illuminated by his mom, is shown to be both a diplomat and a defender of nature, Beowulf and his band of merry soldiers suddenly become the true monsters we’ve inaccurately lauded throughout time.
“The play shows us why the voices of the voiceless MUST be heard; and the epic poem Beowulf, when held up as an example of every incident of imperialism throughout time, suggests there is always a side we have not been allowed to know.”
The creative team includes producers Erin Schlabach & Laura Covelli; creative consultant Meredyth Hunt; props designer Rachel Adams; lighting designer and sound designer Niki Armato. The Executive Producer is Jolie Kobrinsky.
FEAST. contains overt references to sex and violence, and occasional profanity. The performance is intense, and the audience is physically close to the performer. Due to the above, FEAST. is suggested for ages 16 and older.
Performances of FEAST. take place from March 8 through April 6, 2025, on Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 5 p.m. Tickets (general admission) are pick your price: $45, $55, or $65 and include a pre-performance ‘feast’ of charcuterie/ small bites and themed drinks. The Count’s Den is located at 1039 S. Olive Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015. www.leonixtheatre.org
Erin Schlabach at Count's Den - Social District
10 Great Places for Late Night Eats
CONTINUED...
Nothing to Fear at Farmer Boyz
Even under the dimmest streetlights, Farmer Boys upholds its promise of flavorful, made-to-order meals, with fresh ingredients sourced locally, so expect fresh eats when using the drive-thru in the dead of night.
They specialize in burgers, with every “burger box” filled with hot, juicy beef patties, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, double everything, plus fries and a Pepsi.
Farmers Boyz is open 24/7, serving breakfast burritos, French toast platters, and Denver omelets, making it a one-stop shop for hungry patrons any time of the day.
DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Just add fresh slices of avocado to up-taste any menu item at Farmer Boys, even the milkshakes.
Never too late for gourmet eats at Bossa Nova.
Now that Bossa Nova has expanded its reach to DTLA, patrons can enjoy everything from iconic Picanha, a succulent cut of beef grilled to perfection, to the comforting Chicken with Brazilian Cheese (Catupiry) in a creamy pink sauce. Pizzas and fettuccine pasta and their famed Brazilian bowls that mix hearty portions of proteins with vegetables and grains.
Each dish uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere creates a welcoming environment where guests can enjoy their last meal before heading to bed.
DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Nothing tastes better than freshly grated Parmesan at 3:30am.
Filling the Hole at El Huerto
Expect classic tacos, burritos, tortas, quesadillas, and more at El Huerto.
This USC-adjacent Pueblo-inspired kitchen never falls short when it comes to satisfying all those Trojan post-game hunger pangs.
Open 24/7, they serve a steady line patrons. No matter the hour, you can snag a quick bite.
DTWeekly Secret Sauce: El Huerto just north of Adam’s on Figueroa may be the only place to get a Chili Relleno Burrito at 3am.
Syrup Variety: The Spice of Life at IHOP
Open 24 hours, downtown’s IHOP on 8th and Flower has become a dependable goto for buttermilk enrichment.
IHOP will literally make anything at any time. From homemade biscuits and gravy to Eggs Benedict. Add milkshakes, coffee with caramel and whipped cream, and a heart slice of pie for an even sweeter latenight experience.
DT Weekly Secret Sauce: Which one of these is NOT placed on every table at IHOP? A) Maple B) Blueberry C) Raspberry D) Butterscotch
Don’t Sleep on Denny’s
With two 24-hour locations in downtown LA, one known for sustaining truckers and nearby law enforcement officers, the other known for catering to artists, partygoers, and tourists alike, located on Figueroa and 8th, just blocks north of Crypto.com Arena and LA Live.
Denny’s, where Grand Slam legends, eggs and bacon, toast and hash browns reunite with Bourbon burgers, fries, Cali Clubs, and crispy fried onion rings.
DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Denny’s isn’t trying to be anything other than a damn good diner, providing night owls a place to be themselves, no judgment, no egg shortage, and no dress code.
EL HUERTO - USC
IHOP - FASHION DISTRICT DENNY'S CIVIC DISTRICT
PHOTO COURTESY BOSSA NOVA - SOCIAL DISTRICT
BOOKWORM: Chalmers Brother’s Language and the Pursuit of Happiness
Chalmers Brothers is a certified personal and executive coach, long-time seminar leader, speaker, trainer and author.
Chalmers Brothers’ ‘Language and the Pursuit of Happiness’ is a thought-provoking exploration of the profound impact language has on our lives. Through insightful anecdotes and practical examples, Brothers guides readers on a journey to understand the power of language and how it shapes our experiences and connections with others.
One of the most compelling insights in the book is the distinction between listening and hearing. True listening involves paying attention not just to the words being spoken, but also to the emotions and intentions behind them. This distinction is crucial for meaningful conversations, as it encourages us to fully engage with others and understand their perspectives with greater depth. We listen to understand, not to respond.
Another impactful concept is how our beliefs and cognitive assumptions influence our understanding of what is being communicated.
Brothers highlights that our interpretations of conversations are filtered through our own beliefs, experiences, and assumptions, which can sometimes (which in my experience means “most of the time”) lead to misunderstandings. How often has this phenomenon happened to you? Where one person is telling a story, and you remember it happening in a completely different way.
Or perhaps you’re sitting in a meeting and what you hear is very much the opposite of what your colleague heard – and both interpretations were likely different from the intended message. We so frequently (and often subconsciously) allow past experiences and personal biases to become default assumptions in our mind –which only work to stifle our curiosity for understanding.
The book challenges readers to consider how they communicate on a more intentional level. Brothers delves into the idea that language not only reflects the health of our relationships but also shapes them. He offers the example of two people in the early days of love. At first, they are talking all the time, excited simply by getting to know each other.
How does their connection grow? Through communication. On the flip side, what happens when a relationship dies? Typically, it’s because conversation between them has died or degraded too. Consider the process of healing. We’re told to talk about it. Right? What happens when we’ve talked too much, and we’re told to ‘just get over it?’ What is implied? That we need to stop talking about it. It all comes back to language. The way that Chalmers Brothers explores these concepts is fascinating, unique, and incredibly relatable.
By understanding and utilizing speech, readers can become more intentional in their communication and more effective in achieving desired outcomes. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their relationships, both professionally and personally, and to lead a more fulfilling and happy life through the power of language.
Courtney Lindemann is based in Los Angeles. She is a freelance editor and writing coach for Indie authors and is currently busy writing her debut novel.
RONDA JACKSON CHANGE AGENT OF SUCCESS CONTINUED...
As a speaker, emcee, event and podcast host, she strives to be a voice of authenticity, inspiration, and transformative change. “Through all my platforms—be it podcasting or public speaking—my mission is to enlighten, empower, and elevate,” Ronda said.
Beyond her business endeavors, Ronda has a strong belief in the power of uplifting community. Through In the Mix, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, she leads initiatives for business capacity building and workforce development, always with the goal of creating lasting change.
Ronda also hosts monthly 3rd Saturday Events at Studio D providing a space for growth, networking, and education with themed events immersing guests in everything from sip and paint to all female boxing.
“The growth of our community’s businesses is key to the revitalization of our neighborhoods and the unlocking of potential for future generations.” Says Ronda, “The ripple effect of entrepreneurial success is immeasurable. By supporting each other, we can create a stronger economy, more jobs, and increased opportunities for everyone.”
Through every job Ronda creates, every event she hosts, Ronda Jackson is helping to move DTLA towards a community that stands united, resilient, and ready to succeed.
Studio D Contract Finishes is located at 334 S Main Street # 5018, Los Angeles, CA 90013. www.studiodcontract.com
Photo courtesy Studio D Contract Finishes
Smacking Down at Taco Bell Cantina
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Taco Bell Cantina on 7th and Flower! Where, when the clock strikes 12, the cravings keep on raging!
In this corner, Chalupa Supreme, a veteran of countless late-night brawls, loaded with sour cream, ready to put things in order with its tag team partner, the Twisted Frozen Margarita, a swirling vortex of lime and tequila encased in an impenetrable shell of hard, twisted plastic.
And there goes the bell! It’s an all-out, no-holds-barred late-night match-up, not expected to end until 4 AM.
In the other corner, hailing from the southwestern flavors of Orange County, The Cheesy Gordita Crunch, and tag team partner, The Doritos Locos Taco, a fiery wildcard, who seems tasty at first but is known to snap, sending unwinding blows of Diablo sauce in all directions.
The crowd goes wild! As Doritos Locos charges with a boom, bop, bam! laying down the law on Chalupa Supreme, holding it up on the ropes, making its own rules, while punching Chalupa below the belt.
Disqualified.
W hat’s this?
It looks like Twisted Frozen Margarita is about to unleash a frosty fury of crushed ice legalities on Gordita Crunch!
This may be the end of Gordita’s reputation, as Margarita’s icy tendrils grip Gordita, washing away its crunchy protection and taking a bite out of its now chilled soft underbelly. Gordita is cold. And it’s over! The whole world waits for the judge’s final decision as this ferocious battle comes to an end with the winners and losers leaving Taco Bell Cantina in a hot mess.
