LA’s Burgerim Faces Uncertain Future After Bombshell Report of Financial Mismanagement

Los Angeles-based restaurant franchise company Burgerim is in serious trouble, according to Restaurant Business. The Israeli-born slider company has been booming with new franchisees over the past few years, but now it seems that the whole thing is falling apart rather dramatically — and rather publicly. Company founder Oren Loni has skipped town, possibly for the Middle East, while franchisees report not being able to reach anyone at corporate even as their leases default and creditors come calling. It’s a stark decline for a company, once based in Encino, that promised to grow to hundreds of nationwide locations in just a few short years thanks to a low entry-fee, first-time franchisee model. As for what’s next, the company is trying to avoid bankruptcy altogether, but the future sure does seem dim.

— The family from clothing label Opening Ceremony is opening a Chinese-Peruvian restaurant called Chifa in Eagle Rock this spring, reports the Wall Street Journal.

— Plan Check has closed in Santa Monica after four-and-a-half years, according to Toddrickallen.

— Chinatown culinary shop Now Serving is throwing a charity bake sale on January 26, featuring food from a variety of names around Los Angeles. The cash-requested event will see all the money going to two different charities meant to help with the devastating bush fires in Australia.

— Hotel Figueroa in Downtown is also hoping to help by teaming up with the Wish You Were Here Group for a fire relief fundraiser on Tuesday, January 28. The $150 event will feature live music, a silent auction, food, and more.

— The Los Angeles IPA Festival returns to Mohawk Bend in Echo Park on February 29.

— Highly Likely in West Adams is hosting the Arepa Stand for a one night party on Friday January 24 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Expect a compact menu of arepa options, including one vegan look.

— Nashville wine bar and restaurant Lou is popping up at Found Oyster in East Hollywood on January 25.