The downtown area of Los Angeles is witnessing a disturbing trend as a series of businesses have announced their closures, marking an unsettling exit from the city’s core.
Among the latest to close its doors is Tokyo Fried Chicken, a beloved dining spot that originated in Monterey Park before making its way to downtown L.A. in 2023.
This fast-casual eatery, known for its unique blend of Southern and Japanese fried chicken, garnered a loyal following over its decade-long existence.
Despite a strong fan base and favorable rankings in The Times annual 101 Best Restaurants in L.A. guide, its journey came to an unexpected end when the owners announced last service would take place on August 10, with little notice given.
On that day, the response from the community was overwhelming—a long line formed outside the restaurant, with patrons eagerly awaiting their orders of the signature ultra-crispy chicken that had become a staple for many.
According to Elaine Yamanashi, who co-owns Tokyo Fried Chicken with her husband and chef, Kouji Yamanashi, the turnout was a testament to the love and support for their brand.
Originally, the couple intended the downtown location to be an expansion of their Monterey Park site, where they had cultivated a dedicated following.
However, various factors led them to focus solely on the downtown endeavor before restarting operations in Monterey Park.
Delays in construction and permitting, exacerbated by the timing of the pandemic, forced them into a challenging position.
Yamanashi noted the changing dining habits brought on by the pandemic, stating that even though their establishment was designed for sit-down dining, most of their orders shifted to take-out.
Adding to their difficulties were parking issues and a lack of outdoor dining options, which compromised visibility in downtown.
The challenges for Tokyo Fried Chicken are reflective of broader issues affecting other businesses in the area.
With the recent writers’ and actors strikes, along with fires in Palisades and Eaton, and increased immigration raids, customer footfall in downtown plummeted.
By last October, customers seemed to return, but this year presented a new array of challenges for the business, alongside rising costs and narrow profit margins that prompted the owners to consider scaling back operations.
The current closure has left many fans disheartened, with numerous patrons sharing their fond memories on Instagram, recalling how they had supported the restaurant since its Monterey Park days.
Yet the Yamanashis remain optimistic about the future, emphasizing that their break is a reflection period rather than a farewell.
Elaine expressed a desire to return to the restaurant scene with a more strategic plan that would allow them to thrive in whatever location they choose moving forward.
In addition to Tokyo Fried Chicken’s closure, LA Cha Cha Chá, a vibrant rooftop lounge serving Mexican cuisine, is also facing a potential shutdown.
This sister restaurant of Grupo Palmares’ popular Mexico City establishment has been a hit in the Arts District with its dazzling two-story space and crafted cocktails.
Co-owner Alejandro Marín cited recent ICE raids and the resulting protests as culprits for a substantial decline in customers, making the vibrant downtown area feel less accessible to visitors.
Marín conveyed a sense of defeat, stating that tourist activity has drastically diminished since the summer, affecting their expectations for the coming months.
The restaurant, known for its popular tacos and margaritas, may only operate for a few more months before shutting down permanently.
The challenges faced by LA Cha Cha Chá reflect a wider trend impacting downtown establishments as various factors continue to deter customers from venturing into the area.
Another significant player in the downtown business landscape, Angel City Brewery, recently announced its intention to close by the end of its lease in April 2026.
The brewery, originally established in Culver City in 1997 and relocated to downtown in 2011, has had a rich history within the local craft beer scene and underwent significant changes after its acquisition by Boston Beer Co. in 2012.
Despite Angel City’s efforts to remain thriving, the parent company has indicated that the brewery does not align with its long-term growth strategy.
In a statement, the company noted that they are actively seeking a buyer for Angel City Brewery, with hopes that the brand can continue independently as a local offering.
While the downtown venue and its taproom have been well-received over the years, the impending closure adds yet another concern to the list of businesses abandoning the downtown core.
As the city grapples with these closures and the challenges facing its businesses, there looms a question about the future of downtown L.A. and whether conditions can improve enough to support a thriving community once again.
Tokyo Fried Chicken, LA Cha Cha Chá, and Angel City Brewery’s struggles paint a vivid picture of the current landscape in downtown Los Angeles, characterized by uncertainty, shifting demographics, and changing consumer behavior.
As closures proliferate, the city must find ways to adapt and reinvigorate the core of downtown to cultivate a space that invites patrons back for dining, entertainment, and community engagement.
image source from：latimes
