Help Save Patrick's Roadhouse: A California Icon

Welcome to our GoFundMe campaign to save Patrick's Roadhouse! Located on the corner of Entrada and Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica, California, Patrick's Roadhouse has been a beloved landmark for over five decades. However, due to recent circumstances, this iconic establishment is at risk of permanent closure.

Why We Need Your Help:

Patrick's Roadhouse was forced to shut its doors after 51 years after being hit with a large rent deferral payment accumulated while it was nearly shuttered during the COVID-19 pandemic. They managed to keep all their employees paid though struggled to stay afloat with limited revenue from takeout orders. Despite all of this, they forged on to support the community by providing meals to frontline workers, students, and first responders, though they found themselves unable to meet the demands of this accumulated rent when the deferral period ended, and the large lump sum just came due. That said, the business has operated profitably for nearly a half-century, and we want to see Patrick’s Roadhouse continue making great food and great memories for all who visit it.

About Patrick's Roadhouse:

Patrick's Roadhouse isn't just a restaurant; it's a cultural institution. With its quirky decor featuring dinosaurs, Native American and Albert Einstein statues, and unique rooftop sculptures, Patrick's Roadhouse has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Over the years, it has earned numerous accolades, including "Best Diner in California", "Best Banana Cream Pie in the USA" and this year it was awarded “Best Diner in the USA”, It has even been featured on #2 episodes of Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives." Established in 1973, this iconic diner has been a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike. Known for its retro decor, hearty comfort food, and welcoming atmosphere, Patrick's Roadhouse has become a staple in the community over the years. The restaurant's founder, Bill Fischler, envisioned a place where people could gather for delicious meals and good company. Patrick's Roadhouse quickly became a popular destination for those seeking a taste of nostalgia and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Throughout its history, Patrick's Roadhouse has welcomed a diverse clientele, including numerous political luminaries, countless film, television, and music celebrities, surfers, families, and of course tourists from all over the world.

Our Plan:

My name is Kurt Benjamin, I am a local resident and long time customer of Patrick's Roadhouse. I grew up with my Father taking me to Patrick's when I was young after our fishing trips. As an adult, living in Malibu for years then Santa Monica and finally Brentwood, it's a regular stop for me and my wife. When we had our daughter she was of course inducted into the tradition as well so the history is long and enduring.

Once I became aware of the recent and unexpected closure, I did my research, realized something could and must be done and decided I would launch this GoFundMe. I quickly connected with Anthony Fischler, the owner of Patrick's Roadhouse, asked him to connect me with his lawyer so I could better understand and assess the situation. I then began help them to take the necessary steps required to secure a new long-term lease. Part of my effort's have included connecting with other locals in donors as well as "Patrick's Angels Investors" who have rasied their hands, including an independent Los Angeles based partner of a larger CPA and accounting services company that upon executing an approved lease, has agreed to work to support the administration of any and all the funds to appropriately ensure a proper reopening of the restaurant, and use of funds. The immediate goal is to raise $250,000, with $200,000 allocated for back rent which will be paid to the landlord and $50,000 for immediate building improvements. These improvements will help rejuvenate the establishment after 52 years and ensure its continued success and immediate reopening, the funds will also include a POS system to allow for more efficient order placement and financial tracking. We plan to accomplish all of the financial requirements through all of the generous donations stemming from this GoFundMe page as well as through a group of private angel investors and longtime customers of Patrick's Roadhouse who have raised their hands to fill the gap where and if the GoFundMe falls short. Again, absolutely no proceeds will be released, taken, forwarded or utilized in anyway unless an adequate lease is provided and all the proceeds ($250,000.00) minimum are accumulated. If all the funds are released, the Patrick's Roadhouse operating account will be connected to this GoFundMe and released.......in which case I'll see you all there for breakfast, lunch or dinner...or for a Margarita!!!!!

How You Can Help:

Every contribution counts, no matter how small. Your donation will not only help us save Patrick's Roadhouse but it will also help to preserve a piece of Santa Monica's history. Additionally, we have some big-name and famous customers who have pledged their support, and we hope you will join them in contributing to this cause.

What Happens if We Don't Reach Our Goal:

We understand that not everyone can contribute financially, and that's okay. Your moral support and sharing of this campaign are equally valuable. *Please note: If we don't reach our over all fundraising goal as well as secure a new lease, the Patrick's Roadhouse entity bank account will not be connected to this GoFundMe account and all funds raised will be returned to donors less fees if any charged by GofundMe.com.

Big Love:

Anthony Fischler and his team are deeply grateful for your support, whether it's through a donation or simply spreading the word. Together, we can ensure that Patrick's Roadhouse continues to serve delicious food, continues to create lasting memories, and continues to be a cherished part of Santa Monica for generations to come. Let's save this American icon! Thank you for your generosity and love for Patrick's Roadhouse.