Nineteen months after a wildfire ravaged the Pacific Palisades, residents returned to the community's core on Saturday for the reopening of the Palisades Village retail hub, following a $100 million restoration. The luxury shopping and dining center is now 99% leased, with over 40 businesses either returning or newly established.
Among the returning businesses are Erewhon, Blue Ribbon Sushi, Buck Mason, and Anine Bing. Local merchants that lost their previous locations in the fire, such as K Bakery and Loomey’s Toys, are also beginning anew within the Village. Developer Rick Caruso, who initiated the rebuilding efforts shortly after the wildfire, addressed the crowd, stating that the reopening marks a significant step forward in the community's recovery.
The Palisades Fire in January 2025 resulted in the destruction of more than 6,800 structures, including thousands of homes. While rebuilding efforts have progressed, with over 1,000 homes currently under construction, only a small fraction of families have moved into completed residences.
The Palisades Village complex, though spared the direct path of the flames, sustained extensive smoke and water damage. The extensive overhaul included rebuilding restaurant kitchens and replacing essential systems like drywall, appliances, and air conditioning.
New establishments include Nancy Silverton's Italian steakhouse Spacca Tutto and Alphabet Bar & Grill, a new restaurant by the h.wood Group featuring acclaimed chef Tim Hollingsworth. John Terzian, co-founder of the h.wood Group, emphasized the importance of supporting the community, describing restaurants as vital to rebuilding the social fabric.
For some, like Caroline Kedeshian, the reopening of her family's K Bakery within Palisades Village represents a personal journey of recovery. Her family lost their home and two businesses in the fire. Kedeshian, who has been assisting fire survivors through a university disaster relief program, noted that the reopening signifies a return to normalcy for the community.
Data indicates the scale of the recovery still needed. As of August 12, construction had begun on over 1,000 homes. In July, permit applications for new homes were submitted, permits were issued, and construction started on nearly 1,000 homes, according to Pali Builds. However, only 27 homes had received certificates of occupancy.
Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci Park, who represents the Palisades, expressed her surprise and gratitude at witnessing the reopening, recalling the extensive destruction observed in the immediate aftermath of the fire. She acknowledged the challenges residents have faced with permits, utilities, and insurance.
Sue Kohl, former president of the Pacific Palisades Community Council, whose home was completely destroyed, is in the process of rebuilding and anticipates moving into her new house before Thanksgiving. She believes the revitalized Village will encourage more displaced residents to accelerate their return.
Firefighters from LAFD Station 69, who were on the front lines during the wildfire, were among the attendees. Captain Jeff Brown remarked on the positive sight of the community rebuilding and supporting the reopening.
Jessica Rogers, president of the Pacific Palisades Residents Association, highlighted the ongoing challenges for families still displaced, noting that her own family recently received renderings for their new, fire-resilient home. While the Palisades Village represents a significant milestone, Caruso acknowledged that the rebuilding process for many families is far from over, promising continued support for the community.
