Los Angeles, CA – A landmark of the Westside dining scene, A.O.C. Brentwood, will cease operations on August 1, marking the end of a 16-year tenure on San Vicente Boulevard. The acclaimed restaurant, an outpost of the culinary visionaries behind the original A.O.C., James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne, has become a fixture in the Brentwood neighborhood since its inception.
A Legacy on San Vicente Boulevard
Opened initially as Tavern in 2008, the establishment underwent a significant rebranding later, adopting the name A.O.C., aligning it more closely with Goin and Styne’s celebrated concept on West Third Street. For over a decade and a half, A.O.C. Brentwood cultivated a loyal following, known for its sophisticated yet approachable dining experience, reflecting the seasonal and locally sourced ethos that defines Goin’s cuisine.
Navigating a Challenging Economic Climate
The decision to close was attributed by the owners to a confluence of severe economic challenges that have increasingly pressured independent restaurants. In a candid statement, Goin and Styne cited a difficult operating environment exacerbated by several factors. These include the lingering aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which fundamentally altered dining habits and operational models, alongside disruptions caused by recent industry events such as the actors’ and writers’ strikes in Hollywood, which impacted local economies, particularly in areas like the Westside.
Beyond these broader issues, the owners pointed to localized and persistent cost pressures. Unsustainably high rents for prime locations like San Vicente Boulevard have continued to escalate, consuming a disproportionate share of revenue. Simultaneously, the cost of goods and services necessary for running a high-quality restaurant has surged, with rising food and labor costs presenting significant hurdles to maintaining profitability. Furthermore, they mentioned the increasing burden of mounting bureaucracy, implying challenges related to permits, regulations, and administrative overhead that add complexity and cost to operations.
These factors, combined with other unforeseen events such as local fires that can disrupt business and supply chains, have created an economic landscape where sustained operation for independent businesses becomes increasingly precarious.
A Wider Industry Trend
The closure of A.O.C. Brentwood underscores the fragility of the independent restaurant sector in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles. Even establishments backed by renowned figures like Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne, with a proven track record and established reputation, are not immune to the cumulative impact of rising expenses and unpredictable market conditions. Industry analysts note that the challenges cited by Goin and Styne – from post-pandemic recovery struggles to labor shortages and inflationary pressures – are widely felt across the hospitality sector, making the operating environment arguably one of the toughest in recent history for independent operators.
A Call for Support and Advocacy
In light of their difficult decision, Goin and Styne issued a plea for greater public awareness and support for local, independent restaurants. They emphasized the vital role these businesses play in communities, contributing to local economies, providing employment, and shaping cultural identity. Their statement highlighted the need for collective effort to help independent eateries survive and thrive amidst these persistent challenges.
They also drew attention to the work of advocacy organizations dedicated to supporting the independent hospitality sector. Specifically, they mentioned groups like the Independent Hospitality Coalition and the Independent Restaurant Coalition. These organizations work to lobby for policies, provide resources, and raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by independent restaurants, advocating for measures that could alleviate some of the financial and bureaucratic burdens.
What Remains
While A.O.C. Brentwood prepares for its final service, Goin and Styne confirmed that their original and much-loved A.O.C. location on West Third Street will remain open and continue to operate as usual. This ensures that the core A.O.C. experience, which first captivated Los Angeles diners, will continue to be available.
Customers wishing to experience A.O.C. Brentwood one last time, or utilize any outstanding gift cards specifically for that location, have until the end of July to do so, as the restaurant will continue operating through the month leading up to its final closure date of August 1.
Conclusion
The impending closure of A.O.C. Brentwood is a significant loss for the Westside dining community and serves as a stark reminder of the complex economic pressures facing even successful, long-standing independent restaurants in today’s climate. The departure of this 16-year veteran establishment from San Vicente Boulevard highlights the urgent need for continued support from diners and proactive measures from policymakers to ensure the vibrancy and sustainability of independent hospitality businesses.
