Landmark North Hollywood eatery returns after a decade
Phil’s Diner, a North Hollywood landmark, returned Wednesday on the back of a truck after a long absence and a $1.2-million renovation.
Movers lowered the 25,000-pound diner into place at its new location on Lankershim Boulevard north of Magnolia Boulevard, where it will open in March after being closed for a decade.
The restaurant was moved from its historic home on Chandler Boulevard and kept in storage to make way for real estate development near the North Hollywood subway station.
The 1920s-era restaurant designed to simulate a railroad car served generations of San Fernando Valley residents and appeared in various movies and television shows.
Los Angeles developer J.H. Snyder Co. put nearly $500,000 toward the diner’s restoration as part of its development agreement with the city Community Redevelopment Agency to build a $300-million complex of housing, stores and offices. A movie multiplex is also planned.
“We’re incredibly excited to take such a major step toward reopening this icon for the next generation to enjoy,” said Casey Hallenbeck, a film and TV set decorator who owns the restaurant with his wife, Melissa.
The new restaurant will be called Phil’s Diner Fresh n’ Fast and serve organic fast food, Hallenbeck said.
