Patrick’s Roadhouse closes and seeks donations to secure a new lease

A GoFundMe has been set up to save the food station, which has raised money from 182 donors so far

By Zach Armstrong

Patrick’s Roadhouse, a restaurant landmark along Pacific Coast Highway at the intersection of Entrada Drive, is at risk of permanent closure and is asking for help to prevent that.

“You’ve probably heard by now that Patrick’s Roadhouse is currently closed for the past 48 hours.” the establishment said in a Facebook post. “We are fighting with our landlord over the rent that must be paid during Covid. As you may recall, we were only open for take-out food and basically just gave away the food we had to doctors, nurses, and students who were cooped up in school. The bill is now due and we really need the help of everyone who touched the hearts of Patrick’s Roadhouse.”

According to the post, the establishment is working with owner Anthony Fischler and his legal team to secure a new long-term lease. A GoFundMe has been set up to save the food station, which at the time of writing has raised money through 182 donations so far.

The goal is to raise $250,000, with $200,000 set aside for back rent and the remaining money for building improvements. “The company has been profitable for almost half a century and we want it to continue, providing great food and great memories for all who visit,” the post said. Moreover, it is also trying to solve its financial problems with the help of a group of private angel investors and old customers.

As of this writing, $15,430 of the $250,000 goal has been raised.

Founded in 1973, Patrick’s Roadhouse is known for its “quirky” and “retro” decor. These include dinosaurs, statues of Native Americans and Albert Einstein, and unique rooftop sculptures. It has been featured in episodes of Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” and has received several awards, including “Best Diner in California” and “Best Banana Cream Pie in the USA,” according to GoFundMe.
All funds raised will be returned to donors if a new lease is not negotiated. Patrick’s Roadhouse will be closed indefinitely until then. The GoFundMe can be found at https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-save-patricks-roadhouse-a-california-icon?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.