Birdie G’s, a beloved neighborhood spot in Santa Monica, has announced it will permanently close on December 31. Known for its New American cuisine with Jewish and Eastern European influences, the restaurant faced a series of challenges, including the pandemic, staff shortages, strikes, and a fire, that contributed to its closure.
Birdie G’s Announces Closure
Founded by award-winning chef Jeremy Fox, Birdie G’s was named after his daughter and grandmother, Gladys. The restaurant took inspiration from his childhood memories and family traditions. The eatery serves regional dishes inspired by family recipes and the nostalgic charm of classic supper clubs.
Chef Fox announced the closure on his social media account, stating that the restaurant was meant to be a love letter to his daughter and grandmother.
“When we opened in 2019, Birdie G’s was meant to be a love letter to my daughter Birdie and my grandmother Gladys. From the start, we were met with so much love, acclaim, and incredible regulars,” the post said.
He noted that just eight months after opening, the pandemic struck, followed by staffing shortages, strikes, and other economic hurdles.
The restaurant also struggled with local infrastructure setbacks, such as restrictions on using the Bergamot parking lot and the shelving of planned amenities like a hotel and parking structure.
Fox thanked supporters and announced a final eight-night dinner series as a send-off, adding that he hopes to one day reopen Birdie G’s in a new location.
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Legacy of Birdie G’s
Located inside Santa Monica’s historic Bergamot Station, the restaurant offers indoor-outdoor seating, a front patio, an open kitchen, a bar, and a private dining room.
Signature dishes include Lamb a la Saless with crispy rice and Persian spices, house-made fried chicken, a reimagined matzo ball soup, and rotating seasonal plates sourced from local farms. The restaurant makes nearly everything in-house, with seasonal ingredients sourced from ranchers, fishers, and local farmers.
The wine program features more than 250 bottles, spanning classic vintages and contemporary styles from around the world. The restaurant had earned praise from both locals and notable figures, receiving recognition from the MICHELIN Guide and the Los Angeles Times.
As Birdie G’s prepares to close, it leaves behind a legacy of heartfelt cuisine, cherished memories, and a community of loyal patrons.
