LA Restaurants Continue to Embrace the Crowdfunding Business Model

Crowdfund your favorite coffee shop

Last October a car plowed through the popular Holy Grounds Coffee and Tea in El Sereno, and since then ownership has been slowly plotting a comeback. Now The Eastsider says a reopening could happen as soon as early next year — good news for a neighborhood still mourning the loss.

To help defray costs, the coffee shop is also asking for financial support via a GoFundMe page, a tactic being used with increasing frequency in the restaurant world. Arty newcomer Botanica is hoping to connect with their community via a crowdfunding effort, while Keith Garrett of All Flavor No Grease continues to ask for help in getting a food truck off the ground as well. Other efforts are aimed at helping a person in need, like Guillermo Hererra of Knead & Co.

Tao Group hires massively

Want to be a part of the incoming Tao Group experience in Hollywood? They’re apparently hiring around 500 people via a series of open interviews happening now, so get your resume ready and dress to impress, as the flyer states. The roll call is for everything from VIP hosts to dishwashers and porters.

Evans Brewing Co. expands

The oldest brewery in Orange County (Evans Brewing Company) is opening up a sit-down restaurant and tasting room called The Public House in Fullerton. The place hits all the usual exposed brick and wood floor notes, and includes live music, a full bar, and a slew of comfort food options. Official opening was last month, at 138 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton.

Caffe Luxxe moves around in Brentwood

After eight years it seems that Caffe Luxxe is leaving their first Brentwood address behind. The popular coffee shop’s landlord has decided to part ways with the place, so they’re moving a half-mile away next to Sugarfish at San Vicente and Darlington. Last day of service at the current location is December 24.

Manuela adds a chef’s counter

Want a new way to experience Manuela, chef Wes Whitsell’s artsy new restaurant in Downtown? Try the chef’s counter, a limited-seating Wednesday-only option for six to nine enterprising diners. Buy-in is $100, with $50 add-on for booze, with reservations made in advance directly with the restaurant.

A Proof Bakery party

Want to get some last minute baked goods before the holidays officially kick off? Head to Proof Bakery’s commissary kitchen on Glendale Boulevard for all sorts of awesome stuff, including jam, pastries, and popcorn.