Norms on La Cienega Could Close, But LA Loves 24-7 Dining

An LA Icon Faces an Uncertain future

The Norms diner on La Cienega Boulevard is a beacon for night owls⁢ and a cherished part of Los Angeles history. Open 24 hours a​ day, seven days a week, as 1957, it’s a place where Angelenos from all walks of life gather to enjoy classic diner fare and a sense of community,‌ especially in the wee hours. “It ‍just feels ‍like home when you come here. even at ⁢3:00 a.m.,” says customer Nickie‍ Johnson. But this‍ iconic establishment,⁣ known for its Googie-style architecture and the motto “Where Life Happens,” now faces an uncertain future. The threat stems ⁣from the ⁤fact that the Southern California chain‍ doesn’t own the building.In 2021, Raising Cane’s, the fried-chicken ⁤chain, purchased the property. Then,in november 2024,they announced plans to take over the lease in ⁤2027,proposing changes to the building,including replacing the iconic sawtooth sign. Raising Cane’s faced immediate and fierce backlash from the⁤ community members who ⁢cherish the landmark diner. Any changes to the building’s exterior require approval from the LA’s⁢ Cultural Heritage Commission,‍ as it holds historic designation. while Raising Cane’s‌ has halted their plans for now, the future of Norms on ‍La‍ cienega remains precarious. The company stated ⁣they are in ⁤talks with Norms about the diner’s future.

more ‌Than Just a Diner: A Community Gathering Spot

The rarity of all-night eateries in los Angeles has made Norms a unique gathering place. every weekend,⁤ the diner‌ bustles with young adults, while mid-week evenings see a quieter crowd of senior citizens. ⁤ “They come ‍in, and they might ‌potentially be a⁤ little intoxicated, but generally​ speaking they ⁣respect your Uncle Will,” says security guard ‍William‍ Holloway, who‍ works the night shift. Katelyn ⁤Lance, a local resident, ‌appreciates the sense of camaraderie ⁣she finds at Norms in the early ⁢morning hours. “You can​ just relate⁢ even if you don’t speak to each other,” she says. “[It’s] so critically important ⁢to have those spaces.” Jake Hook, who‌ runs the social media account⁤ diner Theory, which documents LA’s historic eateries, emphasizes Norms’ connection ‌to the ‍city’s​ past. “‘What do I have in common‌ with the average LA resident of 1949?’ asks Hook. “Probably not a lot — ‌other than ⁣we⁢ both ate at Norms.” In the ​ever-changing landscape of Los Angeles, ​Norms on La Cienega represents a cherished link between the city’s past and present.
## ‍ ⁣Interviewing the Keeper of a ⁢Culinary ⁤Landmark: The Uncertain Future of norms on La Cienega





**Intro Music:**⁢ *[Upbeat jazz track with a hint of nostalgia]*



**Host:** ⁤Welcome back to Archyde ‍Spotlight, where we delve into the stories shaping Los Angeles.​ Today,we’re focusing ​on a true icon –⁢ the Norms diner ⁢on La Cienega Boulevard.An LA institution for decades, this late-night haven for night owls ‌and a cornerstone of our city’s history⁢ is ​facing ⁣an uncertain future.



Joining us today is [Alex Reed Name], [Alex Reed’s title/relationship to Norms, e.g., longtime patron, community leader, historian with expertise in LA diners]. Thank ‌you for ⁣being with us, [Alex Reed Name].



**Alex Reed:** It’s a pleasure to be here.



**Host:** [Alex Reed Name], Norms on La Cienega is more than just a‌ diner; it’s a cultural touchstone. ⁤What makes this particular location so special to the fabric of Los Angeles?



**[Allow Alex Reed to respond, highlighting the diner’s history, unique features, and its impact on the community. Prompt them to share personal anecdotes or stories they’ve heard about the diner.]**



**Host:** It’s clear how⁤ deeply ⁢people connect with this place. Now, we’ve heard​ whispers about Norms’ future on La Cienega. Can you shed some light on the challenges facing this beloved landmark?



**[Allow Alex Reed to discuss the challenges,being sensitive to any confidential information].**



⁢**Host:** ⁢ This news⁣ is understandably concerning for many Angelenos.What can the community do to ensure that Norms​ on La ⁤Cienega remains a part of our city’s ‍landscape?



**[Allow Alex Reed to offer potential solutions, suggestions for community action, or calls for support.]**



**Host:** ‌ [Alex Reed Name], thank you for⁤ sharing your insights and ⁢perspective ​on⁤ the future of Norms. ⁢This is a⁢ story we’ll continue ⁤to follow closely at ⁤Archyde.



We⁣ encourage our viewers to share their memories and thoughts ​about Norms on La Cienega in the comments below.



**[Host closing remarks,Outro music fades in.]**