Whaler LLC, a longtime restaurant and bar based in Venice, California, has filed for bankruptcy protection. The establishment, which has been serving since 1944, is known for its beachfront location, food, cocktails, and sports-viewing experience. The filing comes as its Venice location is also dealing with a temporary suspension of alcohol service.
Note: Chapter 11 allows businesses to reorganize their debts while continuing operations under court supervision. A Chapter 11 filing does not necessarily mean that a business is closing. For additional information, readers are encouraged to contact the business directly.
Whaler LLC Files for Chapter 11
According to case records on RK Consultants, the company submitted its petition on November 3. The records show that the company faces obligations toward more than 50 creditors.
The petition estimates the company’s liabilities at between $1 million and $10 million, compared with estimated assets of $100,001 to $500,000.
Whaler LLC’s official website lists two locations, Venice and Santa Monica. The Venice location temporarily stopped serving alcoholic beverages following regulatory action involving its liquor license, according to the Santa Monica Mirror.
California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control records show a Board of Equalization hold on the restaurant’s liquor license dating back to April 30, 2024. A collections suspension was also recorded on September 10, 2026, Santa Monica Mirror reported.
The restaurant attributed the license issue to a paperwork error and a delay in submitting the required documents. The restaurant continued serving food at the Venice location while management worked to restore alcohol service, according to the report.
Highlights from the Petition
Pacermonitor records list attorney Michael Jay Berger as counsel for the company. Company managing member Michael Dobson signed the petition.
Whaler LLC submitted a list of creditors with the largest unsecured claims. These include Amos Financial LLC, Los Angeles County Tax Collector, Kaufman & Kabani, CPA, and others.
A summary of the Chapter 11 petition is shared here:
- Filing Date: November 3, 2026
- Court and Jurisdiction: U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California
- Type of Filing: Active, Voluntary Petition
- Chapter: 11
- Case Number: 2:26-bk-21187
- Estimated Assets: Between $100,001 and $500,000
- Estimated Liabilities: Between $1,000,001 and $10 million
- Estimated Creditors: Between 50 and 99
About the Company
The Whaler LLC offers a variety of menu items, including burgers, lobster rolls, seafood, desserts, and cocktails. The establishment also offers brunch and provides customers with a place to watch major sporting events while enjoying Californian coastline views.
The business also hosts various events and activities, including karaoke nights, live DJ performances, and private parties. Its offerings include weekend brunch, happy-hour specials, and other dining experiences.
While the case moves ahead, Whaler LLC is expected to continue operations at both of its locations.
