The cherished gem will serve loyal Angelenos once again.
In 2018, following five tumultuous years, the legendary burger joint closed its doors permanently in 2018. This historic eatery had been serving up juicy burgers and fries for a good 75 years before financial obstacles and the loss of a family member got in its way. Now, to the joy of many Angelenos, a benefactor has come to its rescue to keep the burger legacy alive. And it’s going to have a retro-styled roadside stand.
Irv’s Burgers began in 1946 as a quaint roadside spot on Route 66 named Queenies. In 1970, Irv Gendis took over, bringing an enduring brand of good food and customer service to the city for three decades. After that, Sonia Hong and her family took over the business, further cementing its place in the hearts of families with their personalized doodles of customers on each paper place and a message that read “just for you.”
According to Eater LA, rent hikes forced the Hongs to move from the original spot on the corner of Sweetzer and Santa Monica to one with a little less charm. After financial struggles, an abandoned GoFundMe campaign and the death of the co-owner Sean Hong, they were eventually evicted. Meanwhile, devoted fans successfully campaigned to have the former location listed and it’s now a protected historic property.
Off the Menu is the company backing this epic revival with Hong at the helm. You can expect to see the shiny new Irv’s at 7998 Santa Monica Boulevard with high bar stools lined up along a streetside counter and motifs that pay homage to all the heartwarming touches we loved the most.
Featured Image: Irv’s Burgers