Genghis Cohen, a legendary Chinese restaurant and music venue located on Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles, is facing a significant change this spring. The restaurant, known for its unique blend of Chinese American cuisine and live music, is set to close its doors on May 31 due to issues with renegotiating the lease on its building at 740 N. Fairfax Ave. The decision to close comes as the strip mall where Genghis Cohen is located is slated for possible demolition as part of a redevelopment project.
Co-owners Marc Rose and Med Abrous are determined to preserve the legacy of Genghis Cohen despite the closure of its current location. They are in the process of planning a temporary relocation for the restaurant while they search for a more permanent home. Rose and Abrous, who are also behind other successful restaurant ventures in Beverly Hills and Hollywood, see Genghis Cohen as an essential part of LA’s culinary history and are optimistic about its future.
The challenges that led to the closure of Genghis Cohen stem from a complex series of negotiations with the property owner, N Fairfax Holdings LLC. Over the past few years, the owners of Genghis Cohen have been in talks with the landlord to secure a new lease agreement that would allow the restaurant to remain in its current location. However, issues such as rent increases and changes to the property’s amenities ultimately led to the decision to close the restaurant.
Despite the difficult circumstances surrounding the closure, Rose and Abrous are committed to finding a solution that will allow Genghis Cohen to continue serving its loyal patrons. The restaurant has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1983 by music publicist Allan Rinde. Over the years, Genghis Cohen has become a beloved destination for a diverse array of visitors, from families to musicians and celebrities.
To ensure a smooth transition for Genghis Cohen, Rose and Abrous have secured a temporary location for the restaurant in the former Sweet Chick space. The new location, which is surrounded by other popular dining establishments, will offer delivery services starting on June 1, with dine-in options to follow in the coming weeks. While the temporary space may not replicate the iconic atmosphere of the original location, Rose and Abrous are determined to maintain the essence of Genghis Cohen’s unique charm.
Looking ahead, Rose and Abrous are focused on finding a permanent home for Genghis Cohen that will allow the restaurant to continue its tradition of live music performances. While the temporary location may lack a stage, the owners are hopeful that they can find a new space that will accommodate the venue’s musical offerings. In the meantime, they plan to host a series of celebratory events to honor the legacy of Genghis Cohen and usher in a new chapter for the beloved establishment.
