Historic oceanfront restaurant to get a new name amid boycott threats

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - A historic Santa Barbara oceanfront restaurant is rebranding itself. Sambo’s Restaurant has been under fire this week for its relations to a racist cartoon, Little Black Sambo.

Protesters calling to end racism in Santa Barbara following the death of George Floyd, a black man who was killed by Minneapolis police, threatened to boycott the restaurant due to its ties to the racist name.

Sam Battistone Sr. and Neil Bohnett founded the restaurant in 1957. The restaurant was named Sambo's as an amalgamation of the two owners' names.

Current owner Chad Stevens said he and his team are currently working on a name change and rebranding. In the meantime they will put up a temporary sign that will read peace and love with a peace sign.

In a message on social media Sambo's Restaurant posted:

We are changing the name of our restaurant, what the future name will be is still uncertain, however it will not be Sambo’s. Our family has looked into our hearts and realize that we must be sensitive when others whom we respect make a strong appeal. So today we stand in solidarity with those seeking change and doing our part as best we can. We will block out our sign with a message of peace and love as soon as possible and we are looking to work with the community to determine how we go forward. Please join us in this message of peace and love. Also please know we do not tolerate racism or violence. We are committed to being part of a long-term solution. And we ask our customers and neighbors to join us in that pledge.

Sambo's on Facebook

Sambo's is located at 216 W Cabrillo Blvd in Santa Barbara. For more information, you can visit their website www.sambosrestaurant.com.