Community members hope to save iconic Santa Monica diner

Community members are hoping to save an iconic Santa Monica diner that’s been serving locals for generations.

It’s hard to miss Patrick’s Roadhouse when driving down Pacific Coast Highway with its bright-green exterior adorned with dinosaurs and kitschy sculptures on the roof.

Founded by Bill Fischler in 1973, the iconic diner has been a staple for many locals and celebrities alike including Lucille Ball, Johnny Carson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Goldie Hawn and more.

Throughout the years, the restaurant was crowned “Best Diner in California,” “Best Banana Cream Pie in the USA” and in 2024, it was named “Best Diner in the USA.”

Patrick’s Roadhouse has been featured twice on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” and the 1991 film, “Point Break.”

The roadside diner 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 storied legacy, the diner was not spared during the COVID-19 pandemic and has struggled to recoup the rent that was owed during the forced closure of dining rooms.

The restaurant managed to stay afloat from limited revenue through takeout orders, but eventually “found themselves unable to meet the demands of this accumulated rent when the deferral period ended and the large lump sum just came due,” according to a GoFundMe campaign hoping to save the business.

The diner 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 diner. “It was devastating. My dad started it 52 years ago and it’s a legacy. It’s a landmark.”

“Patrick’s Roadhouse is a jewel of the neighborhood, the Westside neighborhood,” said Kurt Benjamin, a local resident and organizer of the GoFundMe campaign.

Benjamin and his wife have been devoted patrons for years and are determined to help save the restaurant and its rich L.A. history.

“It really hit the heartstrings of a lot of people,” Benjamin said. “It is such a fun place and we just want to keep the legacy alive.”

The response following news of the closure has been widespread, with support coming in from locals and tourists alike who all have special memories at the diner.

“I can’t say more than thank you,” Tracy said of the support. “It’s been quite a blessing to be a part of this journey. No matter what happens, it’s a journey and this is a blessing and this restaurant will mean something to all of Los Angeles forever.”

The Fischler family said Patrick’s Roadhouse has been operating profitably for most of its over half-century existence.

There was chatter about potentially making the restaurant a historic landmark.

The GoFundMe campaign is hoping to raise $250,000. Around $50,000 will go towards building improvements while the rest will be allocated toward back rent.

The owners noted if they did not meet their end goal, all donations will be refunded.

“Together, we can ensure that Patrick’s Roadhouse continues to serve delicious food, continues to create lasting memories, and continues to be 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.

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