On Thursday, March 20, 2025, the Pacific Dining Car suffered a serious early morning fire and the determination was made by LAFD Heavy Equipment Captain Rich Diede and LADBS that the structure was so badly damaged that it was a danger to the public and to firefighters. We came straight from the Cultural Heritage Commission, where the fire was discussed, to find demolition had already begun.
We informed Captain Diede that a portion of the structure (train car and original metal kitchen) was a protected City landmark. He immediately halted demolition to investigate the condition of the protected section, and shared video footage showing that the kitchen was intact, but the waterlogged roof was compromised and unsafe. Demolition resumed, and the train car was knocked down, leaving the kitchen encased in wreckage.
We sincerely hope another restaurant operator can salvage the precious grill and other fixtures, and bring back the spirit of our beloved Pacific Dining Car.
We’re grateful to Captain Diede for sharing his personal history with the restaurant, and patiently explaining why it was necessary to bring the building down. He also noticed a soaking wet rat sheltering in the ruins, and directed the demo crew to avoid that section of the building. Compassion goes a long way in this lousy world, and we won’t forget his.
Yours for Los Angeles,
Kim & Richard
Esotouric
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