Saugus Cafe in Santa Clarita, LA County’s longest-running restaurant, to close its doors after nearly 140 years
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (KABC) — Customers are flocking to the longest-running restaurant in Los Angeles County before it closes its doors for good.
After nearly 140 years in business, Saugus Cafe in Santa Clarita will serve its last meal on Sunday.
Big stars, including John Wayne and Frank Sinatra, once filled its booths.
On Friday, a longtime customer told Eyewitness News that the landowner didn’t wish to renew the restaurant’s lease.
The loss is heartbreaking for many in the community.
“It’s the oldest restaurant in Los Angeles County. It’s a staple of Santa Clarita, and it’s hard. It’s hard. In fact, it’s going to be weird seeing this place empty next week,” said Kevin Tsiligian.
There is just so much history here. It’s really hard to see, like what he said, it’s not only a staple of Santa Clarita, but a staple of Los Angeles County that’s been around for so many years,” said Rob Goldstein.
In a statement, the cafe owners expressed their gratitude to customers, saying the decision to close was not made lightly.
Saugus Cafe shared the following statement on social media:
“On behalf of the Saugus Cafe staff and ownership, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to our community for the incredible support you have shown us throughout the years.
For 139 years, Saugus Cafe has been more than just a restaurant, it has been a place where memories were made, stories were shared, and generations came together. We are truly honored to have served this community for so long.
While the future plans for the building are currently unknown, we want to share that Saugus Cafe will officially close its doors on January 4, 2026. This decision was not made lightly, and it comes with heartfelt appreciation for everyone who walked through our doors, supported our staff, and made this cafe what it was.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your lives for nearly a century and a half. Your loyalty, kindness, and support have meant more to us than words can express. We will forever be grateful for the years we shared with this amazing community.”
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