Iconic U.S. Restaurant Officially Closing After Nearly 140 Years

The restaurant business can be rewarding, but also heartbreaking. That was evident throughout 2025, as thousands of local eateries, new and old, shut down around the country for a variety of reasons.

As the calendar flips to 2026, a California establishment that dates back to the 19th century will be closing its doors for good. The Original Saugus Cafe is shutting down after nearly 140 years in business.

A historic run comes to an end

Located in Santa Clarita, California, the Original Saugus Cafe opened in 1886 as the Saugus Eating House before changing to its current name in 1899. It is currently the longest-running restaurant in Los Angeles County.

Over the years, the eatery served luminaries such as former president Theodore Roosevelt and Hollywood legends Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Charlie Chaplin and William S. Hart.

According to the Santa Clarita Valley Signal, there had been reports that the restaurant would be closing temporarily soon for renovations before reopening. However, Jesse Mercado, the daughter of the cafe owner Alfredo Mercado, confirmed the shutdown will be permanent.

When is the Original Saugus Cafe's final day?

An official statement released by Mercado's family revealed that the Original Saugus Cafe will officially close on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.

In the note, ownership said it was "truly honored" to have served the community and wished to express "our deepest gratitude" for all of the support.

“For 139 years, Saugus Cafe has been more than just a restaurant it has been a place where memories were made, stories were shared, and generations came together. We are truly honored to have served this community for so long," the letter reads.

"While the future plans for the building are currently unknown, we want to share that Saugus Cafe will officially close its doors on Jan. 4, 2026. This decision was not made lightly, and it comes with heartfelt appreciation for everyone who walked through our doors, supported our staff, and made this café what it was."