Scandal-Ridden L.A. Institution ‘Horses’ Closes Indefinitely
The recent indefinite closure of the popular Los Angeles restaurant, Horses, has left patrons in a state of uncertainty. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and acclaimed culinary offerings, Horses was faced with a series of challenges, including controversy and maintenance issues. The restaurant will no longer honor existing reservations as it remains shut, starting in late December 2023.
Background of the Closure
Located on the border of Hollywood and West Hollywood, Horses was at the center of a scandal in 2023. The controversy stemmed from the divorce proceedings of its founders, Liz Johnson and Will Aghajanian. Files revealed accusations of animal abuse and domestic violence, significantly impacting the restaurant’s reputation.
In addition to the scandal, Horses also encountered legal and financial troubles. California filed two tax liens against its parent company, Horses Holdings LLC, in December 2023, totaling approximately $530,000. These legal issues compounded the restaurant’s struggles, leading to its abrupt closure.
Customer Impact
Guests who had reserved tables for late December to early January received notifications about the cancellation of their bookings. According to messages from restaurant staff, the closures were due to building repairs caused by recent heavy rainfall, which resulted in unsafe conditions.
- Closure Announcement: “Due to heavy rain over the past few days, our restaurant has experienced unexpected structural issues.”
- Safety Priority: Horses expressed concern for the safety of its guests and staff.
- Reopening Uncertainty: Chef Brittany Ha noted that while reopening is the goal, nothing is confirmed at this time.
Highlights of Horses
Since opening in September 2021, Horses quickly gained recognition. Critics praised it as a modern institution of Los Angeles dining, with the L.A. Times calling it “the city’s most exhilarating new dining experience.” The restaurant featured a unique blend of European-inspired California cuisine, attracting a blend of stylish clientele.
Before its closure, Horses boasted a menu crafted by a team of chefs. These included Johnson and Aghajanian, along with Brittany Ha and Lee Pallerino, who continued refining the restaurant’s culinary identity after the founders departed. Notable dishes included:
| Signature Dishes |
|---|
| Endive Caesar |
| Burger |
| Herman Vodka-Sauce Pasta |
| Nettle-Stracciatella |
| Panzanella with Stone Fruit |
| Gnocchi with Walnuts and Truffles |
Future of Horses
As Horses remains closed indefinitely, its future hangs in the balance. Local media reports suggest that the decision was made to protect staff and prevent further damage amid ongoing issues. With no confirmed reopening date or comments from chefs regarding the situation, the fate of this once-celebrated establishment remains uncertain.
