Iconic Route 66 Cafe Faces Uncertain Future as Highway Marks 100th Anniversary

The Bagdad Cafe, a landmark on historic U.S. Route 66 in Newberry Springs, California, is facing an uncertain future as the iconic highway celebrates its 100th anniversary. The cafe, which gained international fame after inspiring the 1987 German film "Bagdad Cafe," has been grappling with financial challenges and the recent death of its longtime owner, Andrea Pruett, in January.

While visitors can still stop by for photos and to purchase souvenirs like T-shirts, the cafe's kitchen has been closed for years. Efforts are underway to raise money to restore the kitchen and upgrade the septic system. The cafe currently operates by selling merchandise and offering cold drinks, but no longer serves food.

Route 66 attracts travelers seeking classic diners, neon signs, and unique hotels. The Bagdad Cafe, adorned with dollar bills, flags, and license plates from around the world, has been a draw for decades. A worker at the cafe noted that while many American visitors come for the highway's history, European tourists, particularly from France, often make the journey specifically because of the film.

Andrea Pruett owned the cafe for over 30 years and was known for her welcoming demeanor towards international travelers. Before her passing at age 85, she mentioned in a GoFundMe post that international tourists and tour buses once accounted for approximately 80% of the business. The COVID-19 pandemic forced a temporary closure, and upon reopening, the cafe could only offer cold beverages.

In addition to the pandemic's impact, years of roof leaks had caused rainwater to damage the 1950s-era building. In 2024, a GoFundMe campaign successfully raised funds for roof and interior ceiling repairs. A separate fundraising effort is now focused on reopening the kitchen and improving the septic system.

The Pruett family is reportedly still assessing the landmark's long-term future, but the cafe remains open daily for visitors to experience a piece of historic Route 66 history during its centennial year. The cafe's website indicates that reopening the kitchen and preserving the historic stop for future travelers are the next objectives.