News Summary
Los Angeles is facing a significant wave of restaurant closures driven by ongoing economic challenges and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. A rise in operational costs, labor strikes, and decreased foot traffic have left many eateries struggling to survive. Notable closures include well-known establishments like Rosaline and Le Petit Four, which highlight the harsh realities of the local food scene as stakeholders work to find solutions to support the affected businesses.
Los Angeles is facing an alarming wave of restaurant closures amid a backdrop of persistent economic challenges. The hospitality industry, already grappling with the long-lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic since 2020, has seen further strain following labor strikes in Hollywood in 2023, with adverse effects continuing into 2025.
Recent Closures
Several notable restaurant closures have occurred in July and August 2025, underscoring the struggles of the local food scene:
- Rosaline: A modern Peruvian restaurant in West Hollywood, closed after eight years of operation. Chef Ricardo Zarate opened the establishment in June 2017.
- Amour: This upscale French restaurant, which opened in December 2023, will close at the end of August 2025, shortly after its debut.
- Union: Located inside the nonprofit community space Compound in Zaferia, Union closed unexpectedly after starting operations in February 2024.
- Goldburger: A popular burger spot in Chinatown, founded by Allen Yelent, closed on August 3, 2025. The eatery opened in late 2024 and has other locations in Los Feliz, Highland Park, and Granada Hills.
- Le Petit Four: A long-standing French-Californian bistro in West Hollywood, which originally opened in 1981, announced its closure as it struggled with rising costs and dwindling customer traffic.
- The Den on Sunset: A beloved neighborhood bar and restaurant that served patrons since 2009 also announced its closure after 16 years of operation.
- Hudson House: An American restaurant that operated for three years, also closed recently.
- Rock & Reilly’s: This Irish pub, a staple for 14 years, closed its doors shortly before St. Patrick’s Day.
Factors Behind Closures
Multiple factors have contributed to the rising tide of restaurant closures in Los Angeles. Continuous increases in operational costs, including labor, rent, and ingredient prices, are creating financial challenges for many establishments. Additionally, recent fires and enforcement actions concerning immigration laws have further complicated operations for restaurant owners. Alexandre Morgenthaler, the owner of Le Petit Four, stated that a significant increase in minimum wage by 30% and a decline in foot traffic since the COVID-19 pandemic began have been critical factors in the decision to close.
Community Response
In response to the difficulties faced by local businesses, the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has initiated several efforts aimed at boosting patronage. Measures such as free parking and discount offers have been implemented to encourage more residents and visitors to support their local eateries.
Ongoing Industry Struggles
The restaurant industry in Los Angeles remains under considerable strain due to the long-lasting effects of the pandemic, alongside labor strikes and a challenging economic environment. The cumulative effect of these ongoing factors presents substantial hurdles for both new and established restaurants as they navigate an uncertain future.
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Additional Resources
- Eater: Los Angeles Restaurant and Bar Closings July 2025
- Los Angeles Times: Restaurant Closures in West Hollywood
- The Pride LA: High-Profile Closures in West Hollywood’s Dining Scene
- Google Search: Los Angeles restaurant closures
- NBC Los Angeles: West Hollywood Restaurants Close on Sunset Strip
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
