Eden moving into former Don Cuco's spot

By Arin Mikailian, <i><a href=”mailto:arin.mikailian@latimes.com”> arin.mikailian@latimes.com</a></i>

June 12, 2014 5:56 PM PT

Eden Burger Bar is moving into a long-vacant space downtown formerly occupied by Don Cuco’s, and its owner hopes to open by the end of the year.

The boutique eatery known for its artisan hamburgers makes its second location at the space next to the Alex Theatre. The new spot is about 8,000 square feet, an upgrade in size from the currently sole Eden location, which opened in 2012 at a shopping center on Verdugo Road.

“We get really busy and we only have 15 tables,” said owner Erik Khojoyan.

But before the first burger patty is flipped, Khojoyan plans on giving the Brand Boulevard location a face- lift.

Last month, Glendale’s Community Development Department signed off on implementing a new entry alcove as well as a construction of a dining patio on the roof overlooking Brand Boulevard, according to a planning staff report.

A 1,312-square-foot metal trellis will be built above the rooftop patio, the document read.

In order to gain the planning department’s approval, Eden had to agree to a few design stipulations such as stepping back a few columns on the roof so it doesn’t block the view of the Alex Theatre.

Community Development Director Hassan Haghani said since the new tenant isn’t planning on changing the property’s use and that the site already has a liquor license, the design proposal required only a staff review, not a public hearing.

Khojoyan said the new Eden Burger Bar location could open as early as December and that he’s glad to get a chance to expand in Glendale before moving on to other cities.

Elissa Glickman, CEO of Glendale Arts, which manages the Alex Theatre, noted Don Cuco’s closed about a year-and-a-half ago, so it will be nice to have a nearby dining option again for theater patrons.

“Since the Alex Theatre doesn’t have a formal reception area, being able to utilize Eden Burger and Far Niente as a resource for reception is just another really great amenity,” she said.
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Eden moving into former Don Cuco’s spot