Legendary LA restaurant sounds alarm over future on struggling street as electric bill soars by $10K

California’s soaring energy costs could spell trouble for one of LA’s most legendary restaurants.Canter’s, a nearly 100-year-old Jewish deli institution brimming with Hollywood lore, is sounding the alarm after watching its electric bill skyrocket to over $34,000 — nearly $10,000 from just four months ago, according to third-generation co-owner Marc Canter.One of the longest-running and most well-liked businesses in the city’s rapidly failing Fairfax District is now being forced to make numerous cutbacks, including to the building’s air conditioning — a particularly difficult decision as Southern California suffers through historic heat waves in 2026.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story If costs continue to rise, the estimable eatery may have to start cutting back on staff, Canter said — putting the jobs of loyal employees who have worked there for decades at risk.

He explained that he’s speaking out in hopes of shining a spotlight on a significant issue facing already-strapped mom-and-pop spots across the Southland.“I believe I can speak for all small businesses, and nobody is operating in the black right now,” Canter told CBS LA.

“The question is, how much are they losing and how long can they sustain that loss?”The rough revelation has lead to widespread commiseration online — where Southern Californians lamented their own struggles with rising utility rates.“Utilities, like many things in Los Angeles that the government is involved in, are an extortion racket,” one Reddit commenter spat.“Marc Canter is a good guy, and Canter’s is a staple of the city.

As a regular patron I would hate to see the staff be cut because of this, they really are part of what makes it such a special place.”“I live around the corner from...