Iconic Route 66 Cafe Faces Uncertain Future as Founder Dies and Kitchen Closes

The Bagdad Cafe, a beloved landmark on California's historic Route 66, is facing an uncertain future following the closure of its kitchen and the recent death of its founder, Andrea Pruett. The cafe, inspired by the 1987 cult classic film of the same name, opened in Newberry Springs in 1995 and has since become a significant stop for travelers along the iconic highway.

Pruett, who passed away earlier this year at the age of 85, was known for her warm welcome to visitors. Her grandson, Greg Landers, described her as embodying the spirit of the film, making guests feel as though they were stepping onto a movie set. The cafe itself is adorned with memorabilia from around the world, including flags, stamps, license plates, and jerseys, reflecting its international appeal.

The business, housed in a distinctive A-frame building, has been a popular destination, drawing visitors eager to experience a piece of Route 66 history. Despite its allure, the cafe struggled to recover following pandemic-related closures. "We don’t get any locals, and we don’t cook any food right now," said Mark Bradley, the cafe's manager. "But we’re definitely on the map to see… it’s magic that takes place here."

The cafe also served as a tribute to the 1987 film, featuring music from its soundtrack, notably the song "Calling You," and displaying numerous film-related items. In 2023, the cafe sustained damage when its roof collapsed under heavy rain from Tropical Storm Hilary. An online campaign successfully raised over $25,000 for repairs.

French filmmaker Leá De Carmo recently released a documentary, "The Keeper of Bagdad," focusing on the final years of Pruett's life and her connection to the cafe. "One thing she never forgot was the cafe," De Carmo told the Los Angeles Times. "She always knew where she was and that it was the place she wanted to be."

While the kitchen is no longer operational, the Bagdad Cafe continues to welcome visitors who can take photos and purchase souvenirs. The future of the establishment remains in question as Pruett's family navigates the next steps. "You can’t recreate this," said Matt Parker, one of the cafe's caretakers. "We’re just caretakers of it. It’s a museum and church, in a sense, with all this stuff. Mrs. Pruett really focused on protecting it, protecting these people’s stuff — their mark."

Route 66 itself is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, highlighting the cultural significance of landmarks like the Bagdad Cafe along its storied path.