Larchmont Bungalow Finally Closes After Decade-Long Dispute
The popular brunch restaurant and pseudo-furniture shop Larchmont Bungalow has finally closed after years of tension between the city, surrounding businesses, and residents of Larchmont and Hancock Park. The establishment’s sudden departure is seen as a relief for both local businesses and activist groups, which have long battled against owner and real estate developer Albert Mizrahi since the eatery’s opening. Mizrahi died in 2016.
Per LA Weekly, Mizrahi purchased four Larchmont properties for $23 million before the recession in 2008. The developer quickly wore out his welcome after dramatically hiking up leasing prices up, forcing out longstanding businesses in the community, including Larchmont Hardware, Floret Floral Design, and Larchmont Village Estate Jewelers. Residents have since seen a large number of businesses come and go from the shopping village.
The main reason for Larchmont Bungalow’s abrupt closure was its continued operation even after the city revoked its occupancy permit. The restaurant’s presence signaled that like several other neighborhoods in Los Angeles, more mom-and-pop businesses are being displaced by big stores and chain businesses.