Beloved Los Angeles Restaurant Closes After 21 Years Amid Business-Unfriendly Environment

Boneyard Bistro, a popular Los Angeles restaurant, has closed its doors after 21 years, with its owner citing a challenging business environment characterized by rising costs and city policies as the primary reasons for the closure. The restaurant, founded by Aaron Robins, was a community hub and a significant part of his life and family.

The closure follows a period of hardship for many restaurants, including those that survived the COVID-19 pandemic. Robins stated that after enduring COVID lockdowns, Boneyard was further impacted by the Hollywood writers' strike. The strike significantly reduced the presence of screenwriters, actors, and other industry professionals who formed a crucial customer base for many Los Angeles establishments.

Robins noted that the business of the city, centered around film and television production, has not recovered post-strike, leading to an exodus of industry regulars. He expressed concern that the city government is not doing enough to retain its major industries. The situation is further complicated by legal challenges, such as the California Attorney General's opposition to the Paramount-Warner Bros. merger, which could potentially lead Paramount to relocate its operations outside of California.

Rising Costs and Regulatory Pressures

Beyond the impact of industry-specific downturns, Boneyard Bistro faced increasing operational costs. Robins highlighted the impact of mandated minimum wage increases, which not only raise direct wages but also increase associated payroll taxes and workers' compensation insurance premiums. California already has some of the highest workers' compensation insurance rates in the nation, and Robins pointed out the absence of a reduced wage rate for tipped employees, a practice allowed in 43 other states and Washington D.C.

These escalating wage costs, combined with higher rent, insurance, and utility expenses, made it difficult to maintain competitive menu prices. Robins observed that regular customers, once frequent patrons, began dining out less often due to these price increases.

Adding to the challenges, Robins stated that the city of Los Angeles has approved street vendors to operate in direct competition with established brick-and-mortar restaurants, while simultaneously increasing annual permit fees for these businesses by 30%. Faced with the prospect of significant renovations for his aging restaurant and these mounting pressures, Robins ultimately decided to close Boneyard.

Community Farewell

The announcement of Boneyard's closure elicited a strong community response, with patrons visiting in large numbers for a final taste of the restaurant's offerings. Social media was filled with posts from customers sharing memories of family gatherings and personal milestones celebrated at the restaurant. The final day of service on September 12th saw a large turnout, with long-time patrons enjoying favorite dishes and interacting with the staff, including head chef Sam, servers Brian and Becca, and general support staff Octavio. Robins himself was present, taking photos with customers and staff.

Robins indicated that he plans to open a new establishment outside of Los Angeles, seeking a location that is more supportive of business growth. He expressed a sentiment that Los Angeles operates with an anti-business attitude, failing to recognize the value such establishments bring to a community.

Boneyard Bistro was more than just a dining establishment; it served as a gathering place for families and friends. Its closure represents a loss to the community, and the author suggests that the current business climate in Los Angeles makes it unlikely that a similar venue will emerge to fill the void.