The Original Pantry Cafe, a beloved Los Angeles institution of 101 years, closed its doors for good on Sunday, leaving behind decades of history and a dedicated workforce. If you live in LA or have ever visited, you have definitely been to OPC. First opening in 1924, the diner became a staple of downtown Los Angeles, known for its old-school charm and classic breakfast dishes with lines out the door until this day. After the passing of former L.A. Mayor Richard Riordan, who once owned the cafe, ownership was transferred to the Riordan Trust. The new owners chose to shut the doors rather than negotiate with the workers' union, despite many employees having worked there for decades.

The decision to close the cafe without attempting to reach a resolution with the union feels like a direct blow to the workers and the community they served. Longtime employees who had stayed late to protest the closure were escorted out by police, with some being treated with disdain as they were handed their final paychecks without so much as a thank you.

The public's outpouring of support for the workers has been overwhelming, but for those who spent years working at the cafe, it would be far more meaningful if the doors were reopened with the workers reinstated. The loss of this cafe isn't just a loss of a local business, but a loss of culture, tradition, and community. The workers made the magic happen there, and their dedication deserves to be honored.

We stand with the workers of the Original Pantry Cafe in calling for the restaurant to reopen with its loyal employees rehired, allowing this historic diner to continue its legacy. We demand that the owners do the right thing, reopen the doors, and offer the respect and opportunity that the workers truly deserve. Sign and share the petition today! Let's keep this piece of LA history alive!

Photo credit: (Dañiel Martinez/ LAist)