The City of Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission has voted unanimously to initiate measures to protect the now-closed Walker’s Cafe in San Pedro. The decision, made on January 28, 2022, represents a significant step in efforts to ensure the historic cafe remains a vital part of the community. Since its establishment in the 1940s, Walker’s Cafe has been a beloved destination for burgers and beer, situated next to Point Fermin Park.
This cafe, which occupies a 763-square-foot building originally constructed in 1936, has transitioned from a grocery store to a popular eatery under the ownership of Bessie Mae Petersen and her husband, sailor Ray Walker. The establishment became renowned for its “Bessie burgers” and a welcoming atmosphere that fostered camaraderie among patrons.
The path toward reopening has encountered numerous challenges, particularly following the cafe’s closure during the pandemic and subsequent sale. In late 2021, the cafe’s closure was confirmed by the family that has owned it since its inception. According to Derek Brummett, the grandson of Bessie Mae Petersen, his father, Richard Brummett, aged 89, could no longer manage the restaurant due to health issues.
Efforts to restore Walker’s Cafe have been spearheaded by local resident Emma Rault, who has been a lifelong supporter of the establishment. Rault, originally from The Netherlands, has been actively involved in advocating for the cafe’s reestablishment. In 2022, the site was designated as a Los Angeles City Historic-Cultural Monument, marking a critical milestone in its preservation.
The latest zoning hearing on October 30, 2023, highlighted the ongoing complexities surrounding the reopening process. A city zoning administrator heard nearly two hours of public testimony, after which there will be an additional five days for public comments. A Letter of Determination is expected to be issued within 45 to 60 days following the hearing.
Numerous community members expressed their support for the cafe’s reopening during the hearing. The plans currently include the construction of a two-story family home and an accessory dwelling unit on the property behind the cafe. Representatives from The Prospect Group, the Burbank-based company that acquired the cafe in 2022, noted that the additional rental income is essential for the cafe’s financial sustainability.
Despite support from the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council, which previously endorsed the project, some residents voiced concerns over the proposed residential units. Rault emphasized the need for the cafe to remain a priority, arguing that the current plans could limit its operational capacity.
The former owner of The Corner Store in San Pedro, Peggy Lindquist, indicated her support for the residential addition, suggesting that it is necessary for the cafe’s viability. Lindquist stated, “As a business, the cafe itself wouldn’t be able to make enough money to be sustainable without the residential addition.”
According to Silva Harapetian, a spokesperson for The Prospect Group, the property was acquired for approximately $600,000. In the four years since, the group has invested equivalent resources into planning and development, including architectural consulting and legal fees. Harapetian reassured the community of their commitment to maintaining the cafe’s historical significance, stating they are actively researching its history and salvaging decor from its past.
As the process unfolds, the community remains hopeful that Walker’s Cafe will soon reopen, revitalizing a cherished local landmark and continuing its legacy as a gathering place along the San Pedro coast.
