“We never close” is emblazoned on the Original Pantry Cafe’s iconic mug.
Well, the 100-year-old downtown institution was shuttered last March. The reliable crew, who served comfort food while clad in starched shirts and bow ties, 24 hours a day, left the building. Their departure created a gaping void for reliable, fairly-priced fare, which was open round the clock.
The closing cut deep impacting folks ranging from regulars to nostalgic former customers. However, the grills will be turned on again thanks to Hancock Park real estate investor Leo Pustilnikov, who bought the property in September. Pustilnikov announced an agreement with the labor union representing the staff that the bistro, which is as legendary as Pink’s Hot Dogs, Phillipe the Original and Langer’s Delicatessen Restaurant, will reopen in April of 2026…