After serving the Los Angeles music community for a remarkable twenty-five years, the iconic Hotel Café will close its original location on Cahuenga Boulevard in early 2026. The announcement came via an Instagram post on November 4, detailing the venue’s journey and its significance to artists and fans alike.
The post reflected on the beginnings of Hotel Café, stating, “Twenty-five years ago, we opened the Hotel Café with nothing more than a tiny stage, a whole lot of naivety, and the belief that music could bring people together in ways nothing else could.” The venue has hosted tens of thousands of performances and welcomed over a million music lovers through its doors.
The owners emphasized that while the Cahuenga location will close, this is not the end for the venue. Hotel Café plans to reopen in Lumina Hollywood on Sunset Boulevard in the first half of 2027. This new space will aim to expand capacity while maintaining the “soul and intimacy” that has defined the original venue. They also promised a “modern and elevated experience” for both audiences and performers.
Patrons shared their heartfelt memories on social media, illustrating the impact Hotel Café has had on their lives. One user reminisced, “I saw my very first show in LA at The Hotel Café. Played my very first sold-out LA show at The Hotel Café. MET MY WIFE at The Hotel Café.” These sentiments highlight the venue’s role as not just a music space, but also a community hub and a significant part of many personal stories.
Established as a modest coffee shop, Hotel Café became a vital fixture in the Los Angeles music scene, even launching its own tour and record label. It garnered attention from industry professionals, including music supervisor Alexandra Patsavas from “Grey’s Anatomy,” who sought new talent at the venue. Acts like Meiko and Adele found opportunities through connections made at Hotel Café.
While specific dates for the closing and reopening are not yet confirmed, the venue’s website lists events scheduled through December 16. As the Hotel Café prepares for this transition, many look forward to the next chapter in its storied history.
