Welcome to the newly reopened and last surviving Clifton’s cafeteria. It was once the second in a chain of facilities that started in 1931- the first branch was named ‘Clifton’s Golden Rule’ and had policies that matched the ethical name. It had a pay what you can policy that really helped those in need during the great depression. Clifton's was also the first company to offer health insurance to its employees in Los Angeles- it was also ahead of the times when it came to paid vacation time, eight hour days, and overtime pay. Clinton Clifford- Clifton’s founder showed his philanthropy elsewhere by organizing and funding many projects to feed those in need.
The Pacific Seas location on Olive street was tropically themed- this branch will pay homage to this location and possible use some of the original decor in a planned tiki bar. As you enter the building pay attention to the classic California mountain lodge feel- Clifford designed it with the inspiration of where he stayed in the Santa Cruz mountains as a child. Clifton’s atmosphere and space provided a meeting place for a variety of different clubs, groups, and societies. Including the very first science fiction fan club then attended by L. Ron Hubbard, and Ray Bradbury.
Clifton’s was sold in 2012 to a nightclub owner who promised to keep up the charm of the original building- and it 2015 it was reopened. The pay what you can policy has definitely gone by the wayside but the charm and much of the original feel is still present in the relaunch. The multiple bars have delicious drinks and the cafeteria has a selection that can appease anyone. Try to find a hidden corner room with the old radio- or eat a meal inside one of the tree tables. Enjoy a re-opened relic of Los Angeles’s past as I hope you have enjoyed our historical journey today.
648 S. Broadway, Los Angeles CA 90014
213-627-1673
Closed on Mondays.
Cafeteria- Tuesday thru Thursday- 11:00am - 9:00pm, Friday 11:00am-10:00pm. Saturday 10:00am - 9:00pm, Sunday 10:00am-10:00pm
Monarch Bar-Tuesday - Friday 11:00am - 2:00am Monarch Bar, Saturday and Sunday: 10:00am - 2:00am
Gothic Bar- Thursday -Saturday 6:00pm - 2:00am Gothic Bar
