Rutabegorz, one of the oldest operating independently-owned restaurant chains in Orange County, announced plans this week to close its 47-year-old Tustin location.
Owner Paul Berkman, who co-founded the first Rutabegorz in Fullerton in 1970, told the Business Journal that this is the only location where he doesn’t own the building. Berkman said his new landlords are proposing to double his $6,000 a month rent, forcing him to make the tough decision to shutter the landmark Main Street location in Old Town Tustin in late October.
“I’m closing a very busy store,” said Berkman, adding that he was the “only cook” the first year Tustin opened.
The building, whose ownership changed hands recently within the same family, is up for sale for $3.7 million, according to CoStar.
Rutabergoz is known for its healthy menu of wraps, large entree salads, veggie bowls, soups, sandwiches and cheesecake (a Berkman family recipe). Over the years, the restaurant’s loyal following has included local teachers, Tustin police and City Hall staff.
“It’s been nothing short of amazing to have lasted over 47 years in Ol’ Town Tustin,” the restaurant said in a flyer seen by the Business Journal. “The customers, their families and then THEIR families, City personnel, and a multitude of long term employees have all been a mainstay to Rutabegorz rich history.”
The restaurant closes after serving their last meals on Oct. 30.
“My heart just bleeds,” Andra Hardin, general manager for 26 years, told the Business Journal. “Staff is ready to accommodate this closure as best as possible…All are saddened at this loss for Tustin and themselves.”
Hardin, known for her colorful work boots, said starting Oct. 1, the restaurant will be running specials to deplete inventory and to “just to have fun for the last month.”
The Tustin location will maintain normal business hours until it closes. However, the restaurant will no longer be open on Sundays.
The Orange and Fullerton locations remain open, business as usual. However, Berkman, 77, said he will likely sell those locations once he retires.
Staff writer Parimal Rohit contributed to this report.
