Community members are hoping to save an iconic Santa Monica eatery that has been serving locals for generations.
It’s hard to miss Patrick Roadhouse when driving down the Pacific Coast Highway, with its bright green exterior and dinosaur and quirky sculptures on the roof.
Founded by Bill Fischler in 1973, the iconic eatery has been a staple for many locals and celebrities, including Lucille Ball, Johnny Carson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Golden Horn, and others.
Throughout the years, the restaurant has been crowned “Best Diner in California”, “Best Banana Cream Pie in the United States”, and in 2024, it was named “Best Diner in the United States”.
Patrick Roadhouse is featured twice in Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” and in the 1991 film, “Point Break”.
The roadside eatery is known for serving hearty comfort food amid eclectic, retro decor. Many tourists consider it a must-stop on road trips through the West Coast.
However, despite its historical heritage, the eatery was not spared during the COVID-19 pandemic and struggled to recover outstanding rents during the forced closure of dining rooms.
The restaurant managed to stay afloat with limited revenue through takeout orders, but ultimately “when the moratorium period ended and the large lump sum came due, they found themselves unable to meet the demands of this accumulated rent,” according to the GoFundMe campaign. Savings are expected as per the business.
The eatery officially closed its doors on April 21. The current owner, Anthony Fischler, is hoping to renegotiate a long-term lease with the building’s landlord and will need $250,000 to cover back rent and building maintenance.
“It was beyond crushing,” said Tracy Fischler, whose family operates the eatery. “It was devastating. My father started it 52 years ago and it is a legacy. This is a milestone.”
“Patrick’s Roadhouse is a jewel of the Westside neighborhood,” said Kurt Benjamin, a local resident and organizer of the GoFundMe campaign.
Benjamin and his wife have been dedicated patrons for years and are determined to help save the restaurant and its rich L.A. history.
“It really touched a lot of people’s hearts,” Benjamin said. “It’s a really fun place and we just want to keep the legacy alive.”
The response following news of the closure has been widespread, with support coming from locals and tourists alike who have special memories of the eatery.
“I can’t say anything more than thank you,” Tracy said of the support. “It has been such a privilege to be a part of this journey. No matter what, it’s a journey and it’s a blessing and this restaurant will always mean something to all of Los Angeles.”
The Fischler family said the Patrick Roadhouse has been operating profitably for most of its run for more than half a century.
There were talks about potentially making the restaurant a historic site.
The GoFundMe campaign is hoping to raise $250,000. About $50,000 will be spent on building improvements while the remaining amount will be allocated for back rent.
The owners noted that if they did not meet their end goal, all donations would be returned.
“Together, we can ensure that Patrick’s Roadhouse continues to serve delicious food, create lasting memories, and remain a cherished part of Santa Monica for generations to come,” the GoFundMe page said. “Let’s save this American icon! Thank you for your generosity and love for Patrick’s Roadhouse.
The GoFundMe campaign can be found here. More information about the restaurant can be found here.
