February 2026 marked a somber month for Los Angeles diners. Three popular restaurants closed their doors permanently. Rao’s Hollywood, Bar Chelou, and Da Coconut Cafe are now gone. These closures highlight tough times in the city’s dining market.
Rao’s Hollywood Bids Arrivederci
Rao’s Hollywood closed on February 28th. It had served Angelenos for 13 years. A statement cited lease termination after a property sale. The current hospitality landscape also played a role. Wildfires, studio strikes, and economic pressures contributed. These factors made operating difficult. Rao’s Hollywood was an offshoot of the famous New York original. It offered classic Italian dishes in a cozy setting.
Bar Chelou’s Final Act
Bar Chelou closed its doors on February 16th. This acclaimed Pasadena spot operated for about two years. It opened in January 2023. Chef Douglas Rankin led the kitchen. The restaurant was known for its quirky French-inspired cuisine. It earned national praise and awards. However, business declined significantly. A nearby fire in Altadena displaced many patrons. This loss in clientele severely impacted sales. The lease expiration presented a challenge. Chef Rankin plans to relocate the concept. Denver, Colorado, is a potential new home.
Da Coconut Cafe’s Unexpected End
Da Coconut Cafe also closed in February 2026. It had been a local favorite for over a decade. The restaurant served island-inspired dishes for 13 years. It was known for authentic Hawaiian and Samoan cuisine. Popular items included Kalua Pork and loco moco. The Temecula eatery closed without a stated reason. Owners mentioned it was time for a new chapter. They thanked the community for their support.
Broader Challenges Facing Los Angeles Restaurants
These specific closures reflect larger trends. The Los Angeles restaurant scene faced immense pressure. Devastating wildfires in January 2025 caused widespread damage. Property losses were in the billions. Businesses suffered revenue drops and job losses. Restaurants dealt with power outages and poor air quality.
The fallout from Hollywood studio strikes also hurt. Fewer productions meant less business for many establishments. Rising costs for rent and labor added to the burden. Inflation and economic uncertainty made operations unsustainable. This created a challenging environment. Many businesses struggled to recover from the pandemic era. The market is highly competitive. This trend is concerning for many in Los Angeles.
A Shifting Culinary Landscape
The loss of these establishments impacts the city’s vibrant culture. Rao’s Hollywood offered a taste of old-school New York. Bar Chelou brought innovative, quirky flavors. Da Coconut Cafe provided comforting island cuisine. Their departures leave voids in the Los Angeles culinary map. The year 2025 saw numerous restaurant closures across the region. Many cite a cocktail of factors too difficult to overcome. The news of these February 2026 closures adds to the ongoing narrative. It highlights the resilience required to thrive. The city’s food scene continues to evolve. It faces new challenges and trends.
