The Witch’s Cottage, a woman-owned bakery, bar, cafe, restaurant, and performance venue, is opening in North Hollywood’s Arts District at 5303 Lankershim Blvd.
The new concept is set to move into the former home of The Federal, according to a recent liquor license application. The owners, Danielle Ozymandias and Celina Surniak, anticipate opening The Witch’s Cottage in Fall 2025. The new business describes itself as a “home for modern witches, wild hearts, and wandering bards,” and will operate as a hybrid community space offering fresh-baked goods, handcrafted cocktails, counter-service lunch, full table-service dinner, and regular live entertainment.
The Witch’s Cottage plans to keep its cafe and bakery open throughout most of the day, offering baked goods and coffee. A light lunch service will begin at midday, with full restaurant and bar operations commencing at dinner time.
Upstairs, the venue will feature a dedicated performance space with its own bar, hosting live events year-round, as well as a TTRPG (tabletop roleplaying game) streaming room located in the former piano bar. This gaming space will also be open to streamers and gaming enthusiasts, featuring a private bar. The downstairs cafe, bakery, and restaurant will operate five days a week, while the upstairs performance and gaming venues will be open seven days a week.
The business also aims to function as a performance venue and gathering place. Events will include live music, theatrical shows, storytelling nights, and poetry readings, according to the owners. The venue will also be available for special events, concerts, and classes, with a dedicated gaming room equipped for streaming.
Both owners bring decades of experience to the project. Ozymandias has worked in restaurants for over 30 years and produced live entertainment in Los Angeles for 18 years. Surniak has more than 13 years of experience in event management, production, and business operations.
“Our mission is to cultivate this space, where creativity thrives, local talent is celebrated, and every corner invites connection,” the owners state on their WeFunder campaign. “This building isn’t just where our dream could live—it’s the very foundation we need to create a true ‘third place’ for our neighborhood.”
The Witch’s Cottage is currently raising funds through a Regulation Crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder, where it has secured over $97,000 to date. Additionally, the business has raised more than $150,000 in direct investments from supporters.
The team is in its final push to raise the remaining $450,000 needed to reach its opening goals and hopes to secure the full amount by the end of August.
Photo: Official
