This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Torrance, California—a nostalgic look back and a helpful resource for those seeking available restaurant spaces. These are the places that we miss. This is our restaurant history. A forgotten piece of our heritage. No matter how long each of these eateries was open, on a daily basis they paid someone’s rent, provided sustenance for a hungry traveler, or were just part of the community. So please join us and do not forget this part of our town.
Torrance, California, with its population of around 145,000, boasts a vibrant food scene influenced by its diverse community and proximity to the Pacific coast. Located in the Los Angeles County region, Torrance is known for its Japanese cuisine, especially notable for its fresh sushi and ramen, thanks to a large Japanese-American population. The city celebrates its culinary diversity with local favorites like Korean BBQ and Mexican street food, often enjoyed at bustling food festivals. One iconic spot, **Hiyo**, offers a unique take on traditional Japanese fare, blending local flavors with authentic techniques. The city’s geography, with its coastal access and mild climate, has historically facilitated trade and the availability of fresh seafood, enhancing the rich tapestry of Torrance’s culinary traditions.
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Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided as a resource, but it may not always be 100% accurate. While we strive to research and verify details, errors can occur, and businesses frequently change names, locations, or reopen after closing. Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect. Use this information at your own risk. If you spot an error, please contact us here, and we will do our best to update it promptly.
Closed Down Restaurants in Torrance, California
A Look Back at the Restaurants That Helped Feed the South Bay
Torrance has long been a cornerstone of the South Bay’s dining culture. Over the decades, countless restaurants—from family-owned diners to chain franchises—have come and gone. Here’s a chronological look at some of the most memorable restaurant closures in Torrance, California.
2020s
Red Lobster
Location: 21233 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA
Closure Date: May 2024
Part of a nationwide wave of closures, this Red Lobster location held an auction to sell off its contents. Known for seafood and Cheddar Bay Biscuits, it had been a staple in Torrance for decades.
Seafood Port
Location: Hawthorne Blvd & Torrance Blvd
Closure Date: December 2023
Loved for its Chinese seafood dishes, Seafood Port hosted its final dine-in service on December 3, 2023, followed by a brief takeout-only period.
Black Angus Steakhouse
Location: Torrance, CA
Closure Date: April 2023
Known for classic American steakhouse fare, this location closed after lease renewal challenges.
Seaside Palace Restaurant
Location: 3720 Sepulveda Blvd, Torrance, CA
Closure Date: Prior to March 2024
This Mediterranean restaurant quietly closed, leaving only its Yelp page as a memorial.
2020s & 2010s (Earlier)
Curry House
Location: Torrance, CA
Closure Date: February 2020
Once beloved for its Japanese-style curry and spaghetti, Curry House closed along with its sister locations across California.
Musha Restaurant
Location: Torrance, CA
Closure Date: Prior to March 2018
A pioneer of Japanese izakaya-style dining in the South Bay, Musha closed quietly, disappointing longtime fans.
2010s and Earlier
Victoria Station
Location: 23805 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA
Closure Date: Circa 2010
Known for its train-themed decor and steakhouse classics, this location was demolished in the early 2010s.
1970s (and Undated)
Pup ‘N’ Taco (5125 Pacific Coast Hwy)
Status: Now a Taco Bell
This Torrance location was part of the Pup ‘N’ Taco chain, known for its tacos and hot dogs before many were sold to Taco Bell in the 1980s.
Barro’s Pizza
Location: 20048 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA
Opened: 1978
This local pizza joint opened in the late 1970s and is remembered for its community-friendly vibe.
Latitude 3901
Location: 3901 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance, CA
Opened: 1978
This was a lesser-known but still fondly remembered dining spot from the late ’70s.
Sambo’s (819 W Torrance Blvd)
Status: Became Polly’s Pies, now Chick-fil-A
This location transitioned from a national diner chain to Polly’s Pies before ultimately becoming a Chick-fil-A.
Sambo’s (4127 Pacific Coast Hwy)
Status: Current use unknown
One of several Sambo’s in Torrance, this location reflected the chain’s once-large footprint across California.
Sambo’s (22924 Western Ave)
Status: Current use unknown
Another entry in the list of now-closed Sambo’s locations throughout the South Bay.
Final Thoughts
From steakhouses to izakayas, Torrance’s dining past offers a nostalgic snapshot of changing tastes and times. These restaurants may be gone, but their memories live on with longtime residents and curious newcomers.
For more stories of closed-down restaurants and to share your own memories, visit Closed Down Restaurants.com.
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