Mark Stefanos
Costumed Angelenos poured into The Victorian in Santa Monica for Halloween to say their final goodbyes to the tri-level, multi-room restaurant and club, this past Friday and Saturday, Oct. 30 and 31.
The Main St. mainstay brought in its typical weekend party crowd, primarily in their early to mid-20s, who danced, stumbled, made out, and laughed, then eventually dumped into the surrounding square and sidewalk en masse once the lights came on, where they lingered and tried to exchange that last contact for about an hour more.
After the last dance. (Photo: Mark Stefanos / LA Weekly)
The closure marks the end of an era for the property, which dates back to 1892, relocated to Heritage Square in 1973, and began its restaurant and nightlife concept in 2010. Its next chapter is already taking shape, as city officials have approved a plan to transform the city-owned property into The Santa Monican, a family-oriented membership club that will include a pool, spa, fitness facilities, a restaurant, and spaces for kids, led by operators Garner Gerson and Adir Tal.
Up to 20% of memberships will be set aside at no cost for qualifying Santa Monica residents, and the grounds will continue to host community events, including a reimagined Sunday farmers market. Renovations are expected to begin later this year, with a reopening targeted for mid-2028.