The Sidewalk Café Celebrates 50 Years of Good Eats & Good Times

Iconic Venice Boardwalk Landmark Celebrates its 50th Anniversary September 25 th, 2026

From the beginning, The Sidewalk Café has entertained legendary characters, charismatic regulars, iconic movie productions, the birth of skateboarding from the Dogtown era, Muscle Beach Venice Gym, classic boardwalk performers, as well people from all over the world. The Sidewalk Café will be acknowledging 50 years in service to the Venice community, which continuously is one of the best
beachfront destinations in the entire country!

Founded in 1976 the building itself has a remarkable history. Originally one of the last structures associated with Abbot Kinney's original Venice development, it later housed artists' studios and was a gathering place for beat-era writers and poets. In the 1970s, as Venice experienced a cultural resurgence fueled by roller skating, skateboarding, Muscle Beach and the legendary
characters of the Boardwalk, The Sidewalk Café became part of that revival.

“The Goodfader family has lived and worked in Venice over 50 years and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has visited our restaurant and made the Sidewalk Café part of their lives,” said Jay Goodfader, owner of The Sidewalk Café. “We hear all the time about the wonderful and special experiences people have had with their front row seat to the uniqueness
of Venice.”

FIVE DECADES OF VENICE STORIES
The Sidewalk Café has been present on the Venice Beach Boardwalk for 50 years. It’s a classic location known by Californians and guests from around the globe. Today, The Sidewalk Café remains one of the best beach casual restaurants on the California coast, known for its generous portions and laid-back atmosphere drawing customers back to visit for generations. Next door, Small World Books remains part of the historical story. The restaurant has shared its building with an independent bookstore founded by Bob & Mary Goodfader, adding another piece to its distinct Venice character.

AN ANNIVERSARY BUILT AROUND THE COMMUNITY
The Sidewalk Café will be celebrating a major milestone with their 50 th anniversary at an all day party on September 25 th , 2026. We’re inviting the community and people who have helped make the restaurant a key part of Venice Boardwalk’s unmistakable personality. From longtime employees, local residents, generations of customers, to the performers and artists who come to 
the Boardwalk year-round, all are welcome to enjoy this special occasion. In a town like Los Angeles where restaurants come and go like the wind, The Sidewalk Café has stood the test of time! We look forward to serving the community another 50 years!

MEDIA & RADIO OPPORTUNITIES
The Sidewalk Café welcomes media coverage of its 50th anniversary and can offer opportunities for:

•  On-location radio interviews from the Venice Boardwalk
•  Live or taped TV segments featuring the restaurant and its historic surroundings
•  Interviews with current owners, management and longtime staff
•  Behind-the-scenes of a restaurant that has operated in the same location for 50 years
•  Customer and community stories from longtime Venice residents and returning guests
•  Food segments featuring signature menu items
•  Photography and video opportunities inside the restaurant and on the Boardwalk
•  Historical photographs and stories from The Sidewalk Café’s five-decade history